INTERVIEW: Katutura Residents Committee Demands Action from City of Windhoek Over Electricity Blockage

In a recent development, the Katutura Residents Committee, represented by member Shaun Gariseb, has intensified their efforts to address what they describe as unlawful electricity meter blockages by the City of Windhoek. The committee’s frustrations stem from the city’s failure to respond to their concerns within the designated 48-hour period, prompting further legal action.

On Monday morning, July 22nd, Gariseb disclosed that the City of Windhoek had not adhered to their initial request made just days earlier. Instead, the city’s response, received late on a Friday, cited the short notice period as a reason for their inability to address the demands. In light of this, the committee escalated the matter by contacting the Electricity Control Board (ECB), seeking their intervention.

The crux of the issue revolves around a directive issued by the ECB on June 27th, which was later clarified on July 11th. This directive mandated all local authorities to cease blocking electricity meters. However, despite the clear instructions, the City of Windhoek reportedly continues to obstruct prepaid meters, contravening both the Electricity Act and the Local Authorities Act.

Gariseb emphasized that Section 37 of the Local Authorities Act stipulates that, in case of a conflict between the provisions of the Electricity Act and the Local Authorities Act, the Electricity Act must take precedence. The committee argues that the city’s interpretation of the law is flawed and that the ECB has already clarified this matter.

In response to the City of Windhoek’s non-compliance, the ECB has acknowledged the committee’s request and has promised to make an announcement soon. Nevertheless, Gariseb expressed hope that legal action could be avoided if the ECB intervenes promptly. Should there be no resolution by Wednesday, the committee plans to seek a spoliation order through an urgent interdict with their lawyers. This legal step aims to compel the City of Windhoek to comply with the law and cease the unlawful blockage of electricity meters.

The situation remains dynamic, and the committee’s next steps will depend on the ECB’s response and ongoing legal consultations. The residents of Katutura are eagerly awaiting a resolution to restore their electricity services and ensure compliance with regulatory directives.