Residents of Sunnyside protest against smart meter installation, citing unfair treatment and privatization of electricity.
(The Post News)- Residents of Sunnyside, led by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), staged a protest against the installation of smart meters by Midcity Property Agency at the corner of Bourke and Jorrisen streets. The demonstration resulted in road closures, affecting motorists who had to use alternative routes. The protest was sparked by the installation of smart meters in over 50 flats in Sunnyside, which have faced similar challenges since 2010.
The residents marched to the Midcity offices to hand over a memorandum demanding the reconnection of electricity at Angelina Flat and opposing the installation of smart meters. The memorandum, signed by owners and tenants of Palm Court, expressed their concerns and requests to the management of the building. They opposed the installation of private metering within the building, preferring to maintain the existing arrangement with the City of Tshwane. They also requested enhanced communication from Midcity concerning all matters affecting their building, timely trustees’ reports, advance notification prior to any electricity disconnection, equal treatment, and electoral signature.
Majuda Mauwane, chairman of ward 81, emphasized the EFF’s stance on the matter, stating, “We believe access to electricity is a basic human right, not a privilege to be commodified. As the EFF, we are at the forefront of this protest to ensure the community is treated fairly and with dignity.”
The EFF opposes the privatization of electricity, citing unaffordability and hidden charges. They prefer meters from the Tshwane Municipality, which they believe are more transparent and affordable. Residents have experienced these challenges since 2010 and accuse Midcity of unfair treatment, racism, and forcing installation without explanation.
Sibusiso Ndlazi, trustee and owner of Palm Court, expressed his concerns, saying, “It’s unfair to people who pay levies up to date, as things are now very tight. Midcity has no right to install their meters without arranging a meeting to explain the processes.”
The residents are prepared to take the matter to court if Midcity does not comply with their demands and provide a resolution within 7 days. The protest highlights the ongoing struggle between residents and property management agencies over the installation of smart meters. While Midcity claims the installation is necessary for efficient billing and management, residents argue that it is a ploy to commodify electricity and exploit them.
As the standoff continues, the EFF remains committed to fighting for the rights of the community. The protest in Sunnyside serves as a testament to the growing resistance against the privatization of essential services. With the threat of legal action looming, Midcity must reconsider its approach and engage with residents to find a mutually beneficial solution.
The residents’ demands are reasonable, and their concerns about the privatization of electricity are valid. The installation of smart meters without proper explanation and consultation has caused unnecessary tension and mistrust. Midcity must take responsibility for its actions and work towards a solution that prioritizes the needs of the community.
In the meantime, residents remain resolute in their demands, refusing to back down until their voices are heard. The protest in Sunnyside is a powerful reminder that access to electricity is a fundamental human right, and any attempts to commodify it will be met with fierce resistance. As the EFF and residents continue to fight for their rights, the outcome of this standoff will have far-reaching implications for the future of electricity provision in South Africa.
The struggle against the privatization of electricity is not unique to Sunnyside, but it is a microcosm of a larger issue affecting communities across the country. The EFF’s leadership in this protest demonstrates its commitment to fighting for the rights of the marginalized and oppressed. As the situation unfolds, it is essential to remember that access to electricity is a basic human right, and any attempts to deny it will be met with resistance.
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