The ANC in Sedibeng has suspended it’s march to Rand Water Head Office in Johannesburg to demand the removal of debt attachments on ELM’s bank accounts which have resulted in non-payment of disparate service providers.

Rand Water last month attached the bank accounts of the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) but allowed payments of municipal salaries but no other payments such as to service providers.

According to ANC’s Sedibeng Regional Secretary, Cde Jason Mkhwane the REC of Sedibeng had a successful urgent special intervention meeting this morning with Deputy Minister Mahlobo and MEC of COGTA Mzi Khumalo.

“The meeting resolved to suspend the march, which was planned from 11:00 to 14:00, and have a follow-up meeting to resolve these matters on a long-term basis.”

The meeting also resolved that a follow up meeting would be convened with all councillors to clear communication gaps between Rand Water and Emfuleni.”

Mkhwane said additionally, Rand Water has to fulfil its initial commitment to immediately allow ELM to pay key services to restore service delivery in Emfuleni.

“The Sedibeng ANC’s decision to suspend the march is a positive step towards resolving the issues between Rand Water and Emfuleni Local Municipality, and the commitment to hold follow-up meetings and clear communication gaps between the parties involved is a crucial step towards finding a long-term solution to the issues.”