21-07-2025
‘Tired of empty promises': Residents protest over tariff hikes
Some roads in Thembisa have been blocked as residents take to the streets in a service delivery protest over recent electricity tariff hikes.
The protest, began at midnight, has caused traffic disruptions in parts of the township, with residents vowing to continue until their demands are addressed.
Motorists have raised concerns that if unrest continues, major routes such as the R21 may be affected.
The protest follows weeks of frustration in the community over increased electricity tariffs and poor service delivery.
On July 20, a community meeting hosted by Thembisa ward councillors at Rabasotho Community Centre ended abruptly after residents rejected the meeting, demanding the presence of senior City of Ekurhuleni officials to provide answers on tariff increases implemented from July 1.
Residents, supported by the Tembisa Community Forum (TCF), insisted they would only engage if the MMC for Finance and MMC for Energy attended, saying previous explanations from councillors were insufficient.
Also read: Thembisa residents reject new electricity tariffs, demand action
The meeting descended into commotion and was shut down before discussions could formally begin, with residents warning they would take to the streets if their concerns were not addressed by Monday.
'We needed the relevant officials present,' said TCF chairperson Lelenkie Lefakane.
'Residents wanted clarity on why tariffs have increased, but officials failed to show up. We have launched a petition to scrap these tariffs, which have become a heavy burden.'
Ward councillor representative Thabang Jiyane explained that the imposed tariffs came from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) without consultation with local councillors.
Many households have reported deductions of R126 from their prepaid electricity purchases since July 5, leaving families without power.
Also read: City clarifies fixed charges and electricity tariffs for 2025/2026
'These tariffs were never discussed with us, and many households are left without electricity while struggling with rising costs,' Jiyane said, adding that councillors would take the matter up at their meeting on July 31.
During Saturday's disrupted meeting, residents claimed over 6,000 homes in Thembisa were without electricity due to disconnections, while areas such as Maokeng Street remain without power. Community members have accused the City of prioritising revenue collection while failing to deliver basic services.
Traffic authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution and avoid affected routes in Thembisa while monitoring the situation.
This is a developing story.
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