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The Democratic Alliance (DA) is concerned about the ongoing challenges faced by Johannesburg residents regarding the provision of electricity. While we acknowledge the recent efforts by City Power to implement proactive measures such as the early warning system for high consumption, we believe that the root cause of the city's electricity woes lies with the city administration.

For years, the revenue value chain has been compromised, stemming from the introduction of project Pakhama in 2010. City Power, as an entity, is not responsible for billing or revenue collection. These functions fall under the City's revenue department, which also directs meter reading operations.

The current administration must be held accountable for the financial challenges facing the city, including the increased overdraft needed to manage day-to-day services and the overall decline in service delivery. As load shedding and "load reduction" loom, it is imperative that these issues are addressed head-on.

We commend City Power for its innovative approach to consumption management, as experienced by some residents who received brief power interruptions as warnings for high usage. However, we must emphasize that the success of such initiatives depends on proper funding and support from the political administration.

The DA is particularly concerned about recent decisions that directly impact residents, such as the introduction of a R200 service charge for prepaid users. This charge, which should have been implemented from the inception of prepaid services, is an unfair burden on consumers who are already struggling with rising living costs.

As the official opposition, we pledge to:

1. Continue supporting our residents, ensuring they are not unduly burdened by poor policies and short-sighted decision-making.
2. Hold municipalities accountable for their core mandate: the efficient delivery of services.
3. Utilise our position in the Gauteng Legislature to advocate for transparent, well-planned, and resident-focused policies.
4. Work towards long-term solutions that balance the need for sustainable electricity provision with fair and affordable rates for all residents.

We remain hopeful that with proper oversight, accountability, and a renewed focus on service delivery, Johannesburg can overcome its current electricity challenges. The DA is committed to working tirelessly to ensure that all residents have access to reliable and affordable electricity, which is essential for economic growth and quality of life.

The Executive Mayor's office must take immediate action to address these concerns and to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find lasting solutions.

As the DA we remain committed to building a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Gauteng, and we will use the opposition muscle to do that.

Issued by Nico de Jager MPL - DA Gauteng Spokesperson for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA)