THE Empangeni and Richards Bay magistrate courts were plunged into darkness for most of Monday as a result of unpaid electricity bills.
City of uMhlathuze spokesperson Mdu Ncalane confirmed that the power cut because of outstanding Department of Public Works payments.
‘We had high level meetings to resolve the matter and agreements were reached and the power restored on the same day,’ he said.
‘The City provides services to other government departments and they are all bound to pay what is due within stipulated time frames, failing which water and power cuts are effected.
Power was cut off at around 11am and restored shortly before 4pm.
Court proceedings continued as normal, while more serious cases requiring the use of recording equipment were postponed.
