The latest crisis in the City of Tshwane, where electricity supply to public schools has been disconnected due to outstanding property rates, has a direct and devastating impact on learners and educators.
This step is reckless and inhumane, as schools themselves are not responsible for paying property rates. The responsibility rests on the shoulders of the Department of Education, which has to meet these financial obligations on behalf of schools.
Wierdapark Primary School has already been affected by the decision to disconnect the power supply, and it is evident that more schools in Pretoria could face the same fate.
A similar situation unfolded in Ekurhuleni last year, where the electricity supply to several schools was cut, but was subsequently restored following intervention by the Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus).
The recurrence of this scenario points to a pattern of poor coordination and a lack of accountability among the Metro and provincial government.
Ironically, the Tshwane Metro administration – where the ANC plays a significant role – appears to be disregarding its own party’s partners in the provincial government by failing to engage with them to resolve schools’ outstanding municipal accounts.
This breakdown in coordination within the ANC is creating administrative chaos and undermining the rights of learners.
The Freedom Front Plus, therefore, stepped in and engaged with the Gauteng Department of Education and the MEC, Mr Lebogang Maile, to assist in resolving the crisis.
The party will do everything in its power to ensure that electricity is restored to Wierdapark Primary and other affected schools, and that the Department fulfils its obligations by settling outstanding property rates.
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