The IFP calls on the Minister of Electricity, Kgosientso Ramakgopa, to come clean on how much has been spent on diesel supplies since the suspension of load shedding as Eskom has not tabled its budget for the 2024/25 financial year.

It is incumbent upon the Minister of Electricity to come clean and not engage in deflection tactics and clarify how load shedding is currently being avoided, including if planned maintenance has been suspended and if there are increases in diesel and coal usage.

The IFP views the sudden suspension of load shedding as an election ploy. We must recall that less than 24 hours after the Springboks won the 2023 Rugby World Cup, load shedding returned to the country with Eskom implementing Stage 2 and Stage 3.

The IFP will not be surprised if load shedding resumes shortly after the elections to compensate for putting our electricity grid under pressure.

Electricity is a prerequisite for the proper functioning of all sub-sectors of the economy, and load shedding has wreaked havoc in our country.

The supply of electricity is an electioneering tool, but putting our whole electrical grid under pressure for political expediency can have disastrous consequences.

This is why it is imperative that there is clarity and transparency on how, with winter upon us, Eskom has managed to keep the lights on.

We demand a clear time on when the problems facing Eskom will be resolved and load shedding permanently comes to an end. 
 

Issued by IFP National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa