AfriForum Urges South Africans to Voice Opinions on Eskom’s Hefty Tariff Hikes

In response to South Africa's power utility, Eskom, proposing steep tariff increases, the civil rights organisation AfriForum is mobilizing the public to engage in the consultation process facilitated by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA). From 18 November to 4 December, South African citizens are offered a decisive window to influence energy pricing that could significantly impact their future financial well-being.

AfriForum's call to action is propelled by Eskom's request for a 36.15% tariff uplift for the financial year 2025-26, a demand that AfriForum’s Local Government Affairs manager, Morné Mostert, deems untenable. The proposed increase is seen as an attempt to compensate for Eskom’s previous financial mishaps – misappropriation and mismanagement issues that have long plagued the state-owned entity.

Mostert emphasizes that consumers should not bear the burden of rectifying Eskom's past wrongdoings through exorbitant rate spikes. Instead, fair electricity rates should be pursued, a stand firmly upheld by AfriForum. The organisation plans to not only participate in the public hearings but also to rigorously oversee NERSA's regulatory proceedings, pledging to challenge any emergence of malpractice.

Furthering its campaign, AfriForum is circulating a petition rallying against these increases and enabling South Africans to exercise their civic power. It brings an accessible avenue for the public to express discontent beyond the impending face-to-face consultations.

As part of its advocacy, AfriForum will disseminate additional details on the event dates and venues once confirmed. This proactive information sharing intends to garner maximum participation and influence during this critical juncture for energy rates in the nation.

South Africans wishing to submit written objections have a deadline fast approaching—comments via email to mypd@nersa.org.za are due by 16:00 on 1 November 2024. The time-sensitive nature of this phase further underscores the urgency with which individuals must act.

The schedule for public sessions spans several regions, showcasing NERSA's effort to geographically distribute these crucial engagement opportunities:

Starting in the Western Cape on 18-19 November, the sessions will move through several provinces, finally culminating in Gauteng on 3-4 December. With venues yet to be named, AfriForum remains committed to informing the public timely, ensuring that South Africans from all walks of life can appear and voice their perspectives on a subject that resonates with the economic fabric of the country.