The ANC Chief Whip, Stone Sizani, should explain his reasons for withdrawing pro-poor legislation that will result in the reduction of the price of electricity in the country - the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) Bill.
 
The ANC Chief Whip’s office has to date not provided an explanation for ISMO Bill being moved below the line on Parliament’s Order Paper this week effectively preventing it from being passed this year. The ISMO Bill aims to remove the operations of the electricity grid from Eskom and place it in an independent entity and making it easier for Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to enter the market, thereby reducing the price of electricity in South Africa.
 
The Chairperson of the Energy Portfolio Committee, Siza Njikelana is quoted in the Business Report today stating: “I was told by the Chief Whip that the bill would not go through”.
 
The public deserves to know why the ANC Chief Whip would not want legislation passed that will result in cheaper electricity.
 
By remaining silent, the ANC Chief Whip not only disrespects the role of Parliament, but neglects his duty to remain accountable to the public. He should explain and the DA will be writing a letter to him demanding such an explanation.