Johannesburg - A resolution to the violent protests in Zithobeni, Rethabiseng and Ekangala near Bronkhorstspruit has been found, government said on Thursday.
Public Affairs spokesman Blessing Manale said Gauteng economic development MEC Mxolisi Xayiya attended a meeting with various interest groups at which a resolution was determined.
“The City of Tshwane has... called on all residents in Bronkhorstspruit, Rethabiseng and Zithobeni to register on the new city-wide Supreme system in order to buy electricity,” Manale said in a statement.
“ 1/8They 3/8 have been given a 45-day relief until March 20 to register for the Supreme prepay system to enable them to buy electricity immediately, even if in arrears for municipal accounts.”
The area, which used to fall under the Metsweding municipality, had utilised an old system known as Conolog.
It was merged with Tshwane in 2011.
Residents went on the rampage several days ago, protesting over their inability to buy electricity following a merger of municipalities that resulted in a changed purchasing system. They also called for better service delivery.
Tshwane mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa said he was fully committed to the integration of the area.
“I call upon all our residents to understand that the integration of a bigger and better Tshwane will come with some inconveniences and challenges, but importantly the rebuilding of Bronkhorstspruit as the greater eastern capital is a dream realisable as lead our Tshwane into a capital city for all,” Ramakgopa said in a statement.
He condemned the violent activity that came with the protests, saying police should ensure public safety while exercising minimum force.
Protesters torched several buildings including a clinic, library and local hall.
Sapa