City Power condemns threats against its technicians

City Power has warned the South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) in Zone 13, including Alexandra, regarding the recent threats directed at its technicians and contractors.

The warning follows a memorandum submitted by Sanco demanding various actions, such as the cessation of smart meter installations and implementing a flat rate charge for electricity.

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City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena expressed deep concern over the threats made during the march led by Sanco leaders who allegedly incited violence against City Power workers.

“These threats are particularly alarming against the backdrop of the area’s history of violence. Our employees have already faced numerous attacks and insults while performing their duties. The intimidation we’re witnessing cannot be taken lightly, it disrupts our essential service delivery and puts our workers at risk,” Mangena said.

Mangena said while City Power is carefully considering the memorandum, the utility will prioritise the safety of its employees.

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“We will not hesitate to withdraw our teams from areas where threats have been made against them. Our main focus is ensuring that our electricians can work without fear,” he said.

Sanco chairperson Dumisani Nkosi said their comments were misinterpreted. “We are not calling for violence against City Power employees.

“We asked the community not to allow individuals posing as electricians to get in their homes. They should only allow City Power workers, by doing so they will be free from paying much money for the service and also illegal connections will be avoided,” Nkosi said.

Sanco regional chairperson Thomas Pule Thaga said these allegations do not sit well with them because their community leaders might get attacked.

“The march was about the issues of the meter box, requesting the utility to educate us about the product because as Sanco we believe that you must educate us about your product and how we are going to live with it.

“That was the purpose of the march and to draw the attention because we have been asking to have a meeting with the City Power stakeholders, but we did not get any response,” Thaga said.

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