Frustrated residents of Silobela, Carolina, took to the streets on Wednesday, blocking roads with burning tires and debris to protest against prolonged electricity cuts they blame on the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality.
The protesters allege that the municipality has disconnected their power without explanation and ignored repeated pleas for intervention. Community members claim they submitted a memorandum to Executive Mayor Mbuso Magubane in June, demanding answers within seven days, but have yet to receive a response.
Community Demands Direct Electricity Supply
One protester highlighted disparities in electricity distribution, stating, “We want to buy electricity directly from Eskom. Other units in the same municipality do it—why not Carolina?” Another resident expressed frustration over alleged financial neglect, saying, “We are the biggest contributors to municipal revenue, yet the mayor ignores us.”
Several residents reported having their electricity and water cut off over disputed municipal bills. One woman said, “They disconnected my power and demanded payment—which I did—but the issue remains unresolved.”
Clashes with Police, Mayor Denies Delays
Police used rubber bullets to disperse the crowd as tensions escalated. Protesters accused the mayor of intentionally delaying engagement, citing failed commitments to meet on proposed dates, including the 17th, 18th, and 29th of July.
In response, Mayor Magubane denied deliberately stalling, acknowledging some legitimate grievances but suggesting others were exaggerated. “We are trying to provide solutions, but some seem more intent on creating chaos than resolving issues,” he said, stopping short of calling the protests politically motivated ahead of upcoming elections.
Ongoing Unrest
With no resolution in sight, residents have vowed to continue demonstrations until the mayor addresses their demands. The standoff highlights growing tensions over service delivery in the region, with the community insisting their basic needs can no longer be ignored.