Summary:
The City of Johannesburg will reconsider the R200 surcharge for prepaid electricity after significant backlash from residents who feel they are being double taxed, especially in light of a recent 12.72% tariff increase. Finance MMC Dada Morero announced that the surcharge, which combines a network capacity charge and a service charge, will be reviewed at the upcoming council meeting. This decision follows the rejection of a R2.5 billion loan from the Agence Francaise de Developpement, partly due to concerns about the financial burden on residents. Community groups like ActionSA and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) have urged residents to oppose the surcharge, highlighting its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
Key Features:
- Review of R200 Surcharge: The City of Johannesburg will review the controversial R200 surcharge for prepaid electricity following significant resident outcry. Dear SA plans to take comments from this campaign to motivate the change.
- Concerns of Double Taxation: Residents feel the surcharge, introduced alongside a 12.72% tariff increase, results in double taxation and adds to their financial burdens.
- Rejection of R2.5 Billion Loan: The Johannesburg council voted against a R2.5 billion loan from the Agence Francaise de Developpement due to concerns about insufficient documentation and the potential added costs to residents.
- Community and Political Opposition: Groups like ActionSA and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) have called for residents to oppose the surcharge, citing its negative financial impact on vulnerable communities.
- Historical Context and Mayoral Committee's Response: The surcharge decision originated from a 2018 council meeting but was reconsidered due to the financial implications of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the mayoral committee now committed to reviewing its implementation.
DearSA firmly believes that debates play a crucial role in shaping the society we live in today. Our platform promotes and encourages healthy debate and constructive discussions as essential elements of a thriving democratic society. We value the diverse opinions and perspectives that our users bring to the table.
Please keep comments respectful and adhere to a standard of civil discourse. Crass or offensive comments may be removed, as they undermine the spirit of constructive dialogue we aim to foster.
Contribute to democracy
Please consider supporting our platform and help reach more participants.
A small amount creates a huge impact. DearSA® is a registered South African non-profit organisation and, like all non-profits, does not qualify for relief funding from government. Please assist where you can.
.png)
Share
Comments
No comments
Have your say - participate
Total participants: -