EMALAHLENI — The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga has voiced its strong opposition to Eskom’s proposed 40% tariff increase, raising concerns about the ripple effect it could have on the prices of essential goods.
The party organised a demonstration at the busy intersection of OK Foods and Mercedes-Benz in Emalahleni on Wednesday, September 18, drawing a sizable crowd. The protest called on the government to reject Eskom’s latest tariff hike request, stirring anxiety among local residents and businesses.
Addressing the protesters, DA Mpumalanga chairperson Bosman Grobler stressed that the proposed increase would not only result in higher electricity costs but would also push up the prices of essential goods. “But will also lead to price increases on essential goods, such as bread and milk, as the cost of production soars,” he warned. “This will impact every household, and it is utterly unacceptable.” Eskom is pushing for a significant tariff hike, alongside an additional R100 fixed charge on current electricity rates. However, the DA has expressed deep concern about the toll this will take on households and small businesses, which are already struggling with the rising cost of living.
Grobler highlighted that the demonstration marked the beginning of a larger campaign against the proposed increase. He announced the launch of a petition, calling on citizens to unite and pressure the government to reject Eskom’s plan. He also echoed the sentiments of DA leader John Steenhuisen, emphasising that the added expenses would deepen the economic crisis and place further strain on families already enduring hardship.
“Eskom’s poor management and financial missteps should not be funded by the pockets of ordinary South Africans,” Grobler continued. “We cannot allow this burden to fall on our communities.”
The DA has urged residents to sign the petition and make their voices heard in the fight against the tariff increase, which they argue could have far-reaching consequences on the cost of living in the region.
As frustration grows over South Africa’s ongoing energy crisis, many demonstrators expressed their anger at the potential economic hardship the increase could bring.
The DA plans to intensify its efforts, calling for government intervention to protect the public from further financial strain. The protest in Emalahleni is just the start, with the party planning more actions to resist the tariff hike as the discontent over Eskom’s woes continues to mount.
