South Africans are buckling under the pressure of rising electricity tariffs amid high unemployment and a rising cost of living. It is unacceptable that Eskom continues to implement tariff increases without proper consultation with the communities that are most affected.
While the issue of illegal electricity connections must be addressed, we cannot ignore the socioeconomic realities that fuel them. Many people are willing to pay for electricity, but they are asking for fairness. Alternative models such as flat-rate systems should be considered, especially in areas where households simply cannot afford fluctuating tariffs.
In addition, the ANC must be held accountable for its promises to scrap historical electricity debts in disadvantaged communities. These pledges were made publicly, yet we see no progress or transparency.
Eskom and the government must begin to engage directly with communities. Consultation should not be an afterthought but a cornerstone of policy implementation. Without it, public trust will continue to erode.
Tsepo Mhlongo
Orlando East
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