Matjhabeng owes Eskom more than R6 billion, and a notice by the utility to summarily discontinue services virtually on Christmas Eve, sent waves of anger and dismay through the community.
The immediate discontinuation of Matjhabeng’s electricity on 21 December was averted when an application through National Treasury’s debt relief programme was successful.
The Eskom notice stated that Matjhabeng was in breach of contract. They were summonsed to pay or make an arrangement by 21 December, or the supply to Welkom would be terminated without further notice. They were ordered to pay the full outstanding amount, including interest.
What heightened the anger of the residents was the proposed festival in Central Park, Welkom, on Friday evening, and the community prayer session in Meloding, also on Friday.
Residents say this wasteful expenditure could have gone towards alleviating the Eskom debt.
Tshediso Tlali, spokesperson for the executive mayor, Thanduxolo Khalipha, says the events in Central Park and Meloding Stadium are supported, but not financed, by the municipality.
“There is no direct financial contribution towards the success of these events. We are encouraging residents to settle their municipal accounts through our different campaigns. Phase two of our municipal discounts for both businesses and residents is underway to motivate timely payments. Residents’ co-operation ensures the continuity of essential services and supports our commitments of service to the Waterboard and accounts.
“Operation Kwala has been initiated, involving service cuts to clients with outstanding municipality payments, emphasising the importance of timely service payments for effective service delivery. Our finance offices will be open this weekend for residents to settle their municipal accounts promptly,” says Tlali.
