Ratepayers laud court ruling over water back-billing dispute
The eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement has scored a victory after the High Court ruled in their favour in the matter against eThekwini Municipality over a 15-month-long dispute over water back-billing imposed by the City in 2023.
THIS week has been one of delight for the eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement (ERPM) after a court judgment was handed down yesterday in the matter regarding the eThekwini Municipality’s arbitrary and retroactive 6kl back-billing charge.
In December 2023, the City faced a backlash for imposing back-bills for water, with some debts dating back to a decade. To mitigate the fury, the City offered a debt relief programme in May this year.
Also read: City approves debt relief to assist struggling households, businesses
Residents began receiving high back-bills for water, and that was when the ERPM approached the High Court of South Africa.
ERPM shared that the judgment brought finality to the long-standing dispute that had plagued residents.
“The municipality’s attempt to challenge ERPM’s locus standi was dismissed by the court, which ruled in our favour. This judgment sends a clear message to the municipality that it will not tolerate such behaviour and underscores the importance of upholding the Constitution,” enthused Asad Gaffar, chairperson of ERPM.
Also read: Ratepayers, opposition see red in water surcharge decision
“This judgment is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of our members and the broader community. We will continue to challenge any actions that undermine the principles of fairness and good governance. This victory gives us hope and resolve to keep pushing for accountability,” added Gaffar.
After consideration, the High Court ordered, “In respect of retrospective billing for six kilolitres water allowance, the first respondent (eThekwini Municipality) is therefore interdicted and restrained from disconnecting water supply of members. First, the respondent must also stop debiting the accounts of the members in respect of any charges for disconnection of water services or interest, to reverse any such amounts.”
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