Blocking of electricity meters angers eMbalenhle community
The municipality issued a notice that they are implementing its credit control and debt collection policy, which includes blocking the purchase of electricity on accounts that are not up to date.
Residents in eMbalenhle stormed the Govan Mbeki municipal offices on January 20, demanding that their prepaid electricity meters be unblocked.
These residents could not buy electricity because the municipality blocked the meters of those who did not pay their service accounts.
The community accuses the municipality of not being fair because they issued no prior warning.
“We demand answers on why the municipality blocked us from buying electricity because they installed new smart meters for us last year. The municipality installed those meters intending to block us,” raged an upset resident.
“The officials said we owe money for services rendered, but to what services are they referring? We have not received services from the municipality!”
Another angry resident in the group said the municipality should not attach electricity to charges for their poor service delivery.
“How can they demand that pensioners and the unemployed first settle their historic debts? I have just received a statement from the municipality and surprisingly, we owe R79 000.
“The cashier said I have to pay 50% of the current debt and 50% of the historic debt. Where am I going to get that money because I am unemployed,” said the community member.
Some residents told the Ridge Times they applied for the municipality’s indigent scheme, but received no response.
The MMC for Revenue Enhancement and Ward 14 Clr Jabu Zwane addressed the protesters, saying he understood their frustration.
Zwane said the municipality will temporarily unblock the electricity meters to buy electricity and make payment arrangements.
Kinross residents with a similar problem gathered at the municipal offices, demanding answers from the mayor, Nhlakanipho Zuma.
On the same day, the municipality issued a notice that they are implementing its credit control and debt collection policy, which includes blocking the purchase of electricity on accounts that are not up to date.
They expected the affected consumers to enter a payment arrangement as the municipality reviews its credit and debt collection policy.
The municipality granted its customers an extended 14 working days (until February 10) to allow them sufficient time to make payment arrangements. During this time, the blocked prepaid electricity meters will be unblocked.
As of February 11, the municipality will continue with its credit control and debt collection, which will include the blocking of electricity purchases.
