More than 500 residents in Ermelo have opposed a proposed 13% increase in electricity tariffs, citing declining service delivery and unreliable infrastructure.

The DA in Msukaligwa submitted a petition to the executive mayor, Mapulane Precious Nkosi, on March 31 after collecting signatures over a two-week campaign.

Concerns raised include frequent power outages, ageing infrastructure, delayed repairs and broader service delivery issues affecting roads, water and refuse removal.

The DA has called on the municipality to reconsider the tariff increase and provide a clear plan to improve electricity reliability, while also requesting a written response within seven days.

At the time of publication, no response had been received from the municipality.

Read more about this in the Highvelder’s printed edition.