Residents threaten to close businesses on Vilakazi Street
Protesters will not stop until all their grievances are met.
SAPS and the JMPD are monitoring the situation and traffic seems to okay for now.
This is the second protest in Soweto, after hostel residents in Diepkloof protested the allocation of Community Residential Units on Monday.
Ward 39 residents protested against the installation of prepaid meters, and explained that they wanted a flat rate as they could not afford to pay the current prepaid electricity.
Police had to use rubber bullets to calm residents in yesterday’s service delivery protest in Orlando West Ward 39.
Residents said that they were not consulted about the installation of prepaid metres and said they are over charged for electricity.
“I earn R1500 a month and I am expected to pay R500 for prepaid electricity. That is too much, we want to be charged on a low flat rate,’ said Masechaba Modise.
Yesterday residents barricaded Vilakazi and Khumalo Streets with bricks and burning tyres closing access to motorists and tourists, forcing them to find alternative routes.
Residents said that if their grievances are not met they will stop all businesses from operating in the Vilakazi precinct.
Residents said they will not stop until all their grievances are met.
All businesses operated as usual on Vilakazi Street despite the protest.
