The power utility says the Masilonyana, Tokologo, Moqhaka and Dihlabeng Local Municipalities are among the municipalities that are expected to make their payments before the end of this month, while Nala and Matjhabeng will be expected to make their next payment during the first week of October. 

The power utility’s Khulu Phasiwe says interruptions to some of these municipalities were previously suspended due to payments made and agreements reached. He says they are, however, now keeping a very close eye on them and will institute corrective measures at the first sight of default. 

Should the six municipalities once again fail to make payments, residents and businesses in 27 towns in the province will be without electricity.

Municipalities in this province are amongst the top 10 municipalities contributing 70% to the total Eskom debt. 

According to the latest Inter-Ministerial Task Team (IMTT) progress report on Local Economic Development, municipal debt has been increasing at an alarming rate and stood at approximately R13.5 billion by the end of March 2018. 

Phasiwe previously told OFM News defaulting municipalities in the Free State owes them more than R6.5 billion collectively which is the highest amount owed by municipalities throughout the country.

OFM News