The Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown, has appealed to municipalities who are in arrears with Eskom to urgently approach the utility and agree on terms to settle their debt.
This appeal follows after Eskom suspended power cuts to the Gariep, Maletswai, Ikhwezi and Nxuba municipalities in the Eastern Cape. These power cuts of up to 9 hours a day during peak hours were introduced on Tuesday and the Premier of the Eastern Cape, Phumulo Masualle, intervened to resolve this matter. His intervention led to the four municipalities making partial payment towards their debt and they also agreed to a payment plan.
“I commend Premier Masualle for the role he has played to bring the municipalities to the table and reach an agreement with Eskom. It is unacceptable for citizens to suffer and especially during this season. Municipalities must take responsibility and those with outstanding debt must immediately approach Eskom on how they can settle their outstanding debt,” said Minister Brown.
Enquiries:
Colin Cruywagen
Cell: 082 377 9916
