An electric atmosphere filled with tension and a sense of purpose surged through the Newcastle CBD on Wednesday afternoon, 27 March 2024.
Traffic came to a virtual standstill as a large crowd marched down Allen Street, drawing attention to their cause.
Leaving the main road and weaving through Scott Street before making their way up Voortrekker Road towards the local Eskom offices, the marching crowd proved adamant to have their voices heard. Leading the large contingent of protestors was Team Sugar South Africa’s (TSSA) president and Newcastle Municipality’s Deputy Mayor, Cllr Musa Thwala.
Reflecting on the diverse gathering, which included TSSA, ANC, and EFF supporters, Cllr Thwala clarified the purpose of the march – to uncover the reasons behind the transformer’s removal.
“We need answers about why the transformer was removed, leaving residents without access to electricity. I have spoken to representatives from Eskom, and they claimed it was due to an error by the supervisor in charge and miscommunication,” Cllr Thwala stated.
Additionally, he highlighted allegations of a missing job card for the transformer installed in February 2024, as well as accusations of electricity theft, all contributing to its removal.
Despite the transformer being removed nearly two weeks prior, Cllr Thwala asserted that the Osizweni community and himself demanded clarity on its removal. “Allegations were made against me, stating that I was involved in its removal. But this isn’t true. We are now marching to Eskom and demanding the transformer be reinstalled,” he emphasised, adding that he intended to see a case of inciting violence opened at the South African Police Service.
He claimed his intentions stemmed from the protest that broke out in Osizweni following the transformer’s removal, which not only saw tyres being burned in the area’s streets but also noted some residents being shot with rubber bullets to bring calm.
If he did open the case, Cllr Thwala said it would be against the power utility, as he believed they were responsible for the protest action.
With the Easter Weekend approaching, Cllr Thwala stressed the urgency of reinstating the transformer before Friday, 29 March 2024, as the community had acquired perishable food for the festive period.
Furthermore, the IFP in the Amajuba District also voiced its concern over the transformer’s removal. In a statement, the IFP’s Amajuba District leadership stated that the IFP would like to distance itself from the removal of the electrical transformer. “This action, undertaken without regard for the community’s welfare, is deeply saddening and concerning,” said the political party’s statement.
The IFP further stated that it stood for the principles of democracy and fair representation, and condemned any attempt to disrupt or endanger the well-being of the residents of Osizweni.
“Such acts of sabotage do not only undermine the integrity of democracy but also jeopardise the 13 point plan of the IFP as it goes against the teachings of Umntwana wakwa Phindangene. We therefore call for an immediate investigation into this matter and urge authorities to respond swiftly by taking appropriate action to the situation. We stand in solidarity with the residents of Ward 11 and we remain committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are protected during this period,” explained the IFP Amajuba District Leadership in the statement.
As Osizweni residents demand the replacement of the transformer, what are your thoughts on the above?
Share your views on this matter in the comment section below.”
