Residents unite against ‘municipal abuse’
Organisations across town gathered to form the 1Mogale Ratepayers and Business Forum, aimed at addressing issues in town.
Community leaders and business representatives from across Mogale City gathered in Noordheuwel to establish the 1Mogale Ratepayers and Business Forum.
This new coalition aims to unite ratepayer associations and business forums to advocate for transparent governance and the responsible use of municipal funds.
Jacques van Schoor, an executive committee member of Krugersdorp Citizens United (KCU), said rising electricity costs and widespread financial strain on residents and businesses require urgent unified action.
“A working committee comprising delegates from each participating organisation was established to structure and formalise the forum’s operations. The community will be kept informed through a newly formed WhatsApp group, and attendees were encouraged to promote membership in local ratepayer associations and business chambers,” Van Schoor explained.
“Attendees also resolved to establish a legal fund to challenge the municipality’s block-billing system for electricity, introduced in July. Inspired by the Azaadville Ratepayers Association, the forum urges members to dispute electricity tariff hikes that exceed the 12.7% increase announced in May this year, in terms of Section 102(2) of the Municipal Systems Act,” he discussed.
He further explained priority issues include the electricity crisis, sanitation and freshwater security.
Van Schoor and Elize Strydom of the Tarlton Ratepayers Association provided updates on their efforts to engage municipal representatives, whereas Dennis Pretorius of the West Rand Business Chamber emphasised the critical impact of rising costs on the local economy and fixed-income households. Mohamed Laher, chairperson of Azaadville Ratepayers Association, noted that many residents now face the impossible choice between paying for electricity or providing food for their families. Rocco Huliciar, representing Delporton businesses, described how unchecked sewage dumping has polluted nearby rivers.
“Today’s gathering is a pivotal step toward empowering our community to advocate for fair, transparent governance in Krugersdorp. Together, we are committed to exercising proactive co-governance, holding public officials accountable, and ensuring their focus remains on serving the public,” stated Danie Riekert, local entrepreneur and member of KCU.
For more information, contact Jacques van Schoor at 083 325 8727 or send an email to jacques@kcu.org.za.
