Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Jan Brand
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Naledi is deeply concerned that residents are being subjected to electricity tariffs that were never approved by the Municipal Council, placing an unfair and unlawful financial burden on households.
On 27 June 2025, the Naledi Municipal Council approved its budget and tariffs for the 2025/2026 financial year. These tariffs clearly provided for four prepaid electricity blocks and did not include a basic charge. Despite this, the municipality has now introduced a R10.00 monthly basic charge, disguised as a new “Block 1.” This charge was never approved by Council.
This irregular implementation follows a letter from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), dated 28 June 2025, which mentioned such a basic charge (see letter here). However, in terms of the law, it is the Municipal Council, not NERSA. that approves tariffs. The Municipal Manager and administration’s decision to implement tariffs outside of Council’s resolution is a direct violation of governance and accountability principles.
In response, Hon. Hendriëtte van Huyssteen, DA Constituency Leader of Naledi and Member of the North West Provincial Legislature, has written formal letters to both the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) and to NERSA, demanding urgent intervention to ensure that Naledi applies only the Council-approved tariffs. (see letters here and here)
The DA stands firmly with the residents of Naledi who deserve transparent, accountable governance and protection from unlawful practices that harm consumers. We will continue to fight for fair tariffs, clean governance, and respect for the rule of law in Naledi.