Alex community slams CoJ for service delivery failure

JOHANNESBURG - Powerless residents of Alexandra in the north of Johannesburg have slammed the metro, which they say is failing to deliver basic services but is quick to deploy armed officers to cut off their electricity.

On Wednesday, dozens of City Power technicians, escorted by law enforcement, disconnected illegal electricity connections in the heart of the township.

READ: City Power officials again zeroing in on illegal connections in Alexandra

The operation often sees residents reconnecting illegally soon after, undermining City Power’s efforts to stabilise the grid.

With the Easter weekend just days away, many are left in the dark, fearing what comes next.

Their plight is deepened by rising crime, plunging temperatures, and a lack of safe electricity infrastructure.

Frustrated residents said they’ve pleaded with the city for proper supply, but have been met with silence.

Resident Tumelo Hlakwane said: "Don’t disrespect us, we’re respecting you. Take your things and leave. Don’t break our property."

While the operation remains peaceful for now, tension remains.