'Halt nuclear tender processes or we go to court' - NPOs

File Image

File Image

Published Nov 10, 2017

Share

CAPE TOWN - Non-profit organisations - Earthlife Africa and Southern African Faith Communities' Environment Institute have affirmed their stand against nuclear energy in South Africa. 

SAFCEI revealed that they have, together with Eartlife Africa issued letters to Eskom, National Energy Regulator of South Africa, Minister of Energy, David Mahlobo and Minister of Public Enterprises, Lynne Brown, calling for a halt of any nuclear tender processes.

The NPOs base their demands on the Western Cape High Court's judgment in April 2017, which holds that any decision made by the minister of energy about new electricity generation, must be done in conjunction with NERSA, through a lawful and procedurally fair Section 34 determination.

ALSO READ: WATCH: SA energy company to power schools and businesses in Dubai

Earthlife Africa’s Johannesburg coordinator, Makoma Lekalakala, said that the judgment emphasised the need for public participation as part of the determination processes.

Lekalakala added that "Clarity and transparency is needed with regard to procurement of energy and its related processes, including the negotiation or renegotiation of International Governmental Agreements".

ALSO READ: Fast-track SA's energy plan with "immediate effect" - David Mahlobo

Several Media reports have portrayed appointment of new Energy Minister, David Mahlobo as President Zuma's main man to expedite nuclear procurement processes before Zuma's office term end. 

Late in October, the Minister of Finance, Malusi Gigaba said the country at the present moment cannot afford nuclear. 

"Should Eskom not provide this undertaking by Monday 13th November 2017, SAFCEI and ELA-JHB will assume that Eskom is determined to go ahead without following legal and constitutional Section 34 determination. An urgent application to the High Court may be sought as an urgent relief to ensure that the High Court judgment is respected and that government acts openly and transparently," SAFCEI statement reads.

- BUSINESS REPORT ONLINE

Related Topics: