Mayor Xhakaza’s Tariff Intervention Sparks Citywide Applause — Tembisa Leads the Charge 

Ekurhuleni, Gauteng — In a bold and widely celebrated move, Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has suspended the controversial R126,00 fixed electricity tariff charge across the City of Ekurhuleni, following intense public outcry and protests in Tembisa. The decision, now pending council ratification and extensive public participation, marks a turning point in municipal responsiveness and energy equity.The ANC Caucus in the city have welcomed this decision being mindful that 50% of residents in South Africa lives below the breadline.

Tembisa: The Heartbeat of Revenue and Resistance

Tembisa, long regarded as one of Ekurhuleni’s most consistent and high-performing revenue contributors, emerged as the epicenter of civic resistance against the tariff hike. Despite being home to many low-consumption and indigent households, Tembisa boasts one of the highest municipal payment compliance rates in Gauteng — and arguably in South Africa.

Mayor Xhakaza acknowledged this in his public address, stating:

“Tembisa is not just a site of protest but it is the backbone of our revenue collection. Their voice carries weight, and their commitment to paying for services deserves respect, not punishment.” He also heeded the plight of many residents who are unemployed and for most of whom the R126 including VAT would have been an added burden upon a daily struggle to put food on the table. People who are the poorest of the poor said on nationwide TV we don't want handouts we just want relieve as many who are on state grants are unable to cope with buying food to meat the breadline requirements of 3000 Calories per day.

Energy Justice and Municipal Reform

The suspended tariff — a fixed charge introduced under the A2 category for single-phase non-indigent households — was implemented in line with National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) directives. However, the mayor’s intervention reflects a deeper commitment to inclusive governance and social justice.

Key elements of the intervention include inter alia:

Immediate suspension of the R126,00 fixed charge, pending council approval.

Extensive public participation process to determine the future of the tariff structure

Expanded indigent support and debt rehabilitation schemes for vulnerable households

Waivers on tampering charges and reconnection fees to regularize municipal connections

Council Engagement and Public Participation

The mayor has formally submitted the suspension proposal to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Council, with a call for structured public engagement. The ANC caucus in council has endorsed the move, emphasizing the need for transparency and buy in from the community.“If communities and ourselves agree on removing that tariff from the A2 block… we will have to finance using our coffers to cushion that component,” Xhakaza explained.

Broader Leadership and Accountability

Beyond the tariff issue, Mayor Xhakaza has been active in stabilizing Ekurhuleni’s political landscape. He recently restructured the coalition dynamics in council, removing EFF members from key portfolios as they have not won one ward in the city whereas the DA has won some wards and initiating oversight reforms to address service delivery failures and audit regressions.His administration has also faced challenges, including legal threats from suspended officials over alleged defamation linked to a R2 billion revenue shortfall investigation6. Despite this, Xhakaza remains focused on restoring trust and functionality in the metro.

A New Narrative for Energy and Governance

This intervention is more than a technical adjustment — it’s a signal of a new governance ethos. By centering Tembisa’s role and prioritizing public participation, Mayor Xhakaza is driving a narrative of energy justice, municipal accountability, and community dignity.As the proposal heads to council and the public engagement process begins, residents across Ekurhuleni — especially in Tembisa — are watching closely. The outcome could redefine how South African municipalities balance regulatory compliance with grassroots realities.