The Ekurhuleni Metro’s ANC-led administration’s decision to write off approximately R2,24 billion in utility debt comes at a time when the Metro is already facing a severe financial crisis.
This debt write-off applies to households registered as indigent or deemed indigent that have consumed more than the free basic utilities allowance.
The debt accumulated between July and December 2025, and the Metro justifies its decision by stating that all credit control processes have been exhausted and that the write-off is in line with legislation and the Metro’s policy.
Meanwhile, the pressure on Ekurhuleni to settle its growing debt to Eskom is mounting, as the power utility is ready to cut electricity supply to Ekurhuleni due to non-payment.
In the view of the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus), writing off the debt is fiscally irresponsible and sends a dangerous message: defaulting will ultimately be pardoned. It undermines revenue collection and puts further financial strain on residents and businesses that do meet their obligations, despite difficult economic circumstances.
The problem is exacerbated by a shortage of meter readers, which leads to inaccurate interim billing.
Households and businesses often receive bills based on historically estimated consumption, resulting in excessive or unaffordable amounts due.
These issues form part of a broader pattern of financial mismanagement. Instead of enforcing discipline and improving management, the ANC takes decisions that further weaken the Metro’s fragile financial position.
To prevent a repetition of this massive debt write-off, a thorough review of the indigent policy is required along with the development of a credible and enforceable revenue collection strategy.
It is also essential to appoint enough meter readers to ensure accurate billing, and implement a fair and transparent process to resolve billing disputes.
These steps are vital for restoring both financial discipline and residents’ confidence in the Municipality.
Ekurhuleni residents deserve a metro that is accountable, functional and fair. Writing off billions while others bear the brunt is not good governance, but maladministration.
The Freedom Front Plus will keep fighting for accountable leadership, financial sustainability and to protect all the residents that the current administration is failing.
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