Energy crisis
South Africa’s new power minister will oversee entire crisis response
Power lines run from state power supplier Eskom to the national grid, in Johannesburg, South Africa, 27 July 2022. EPA-EFE/KIM LUDBROOK
JOHANNESBURG, Feb 16 (Reuters) - South Africa's new electricity minister will assume full responsibility for overseeing all aspects of the country's response to crippling power cuts, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.
Ramaphosa said he would appoint the new minister last week during a State of the Nation Address (SONA) in parliament.
“The resolution of the energy crisis … requires the undivided attention of a political principal who does not need to split their time and energies among different important responsibilities,” Ramaphosa said on Thursday, responding to a debate by lawmakers on his SONA speech.
(Reporting by Anait Miridzhanian; Editing by Alexander Winning)
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What a joke. So, what do we need Mantashe for? Fire him. This was Cyril’s very responsibility back when he was still deputy. Back in 2015, he promised us an end to load shedding within 18-24 months.
So many lies and empty promises, more taxpayer money to yet another incompetent cadre.
Reaches for popcorn as Princess Sisulu gets ready to accept the role….
The last thing needed is a “political principal”. What is needed is a competent and experienced power utility senior to be given the absolute authority to rectify the problems at Eskom-free of political interference and with the full and unequivocal support of government. What is Ramaphosa so afraid of in failing to do what is plainly obvious to the knowledgeable people in this country who have either worked at Eskom or have hands-on experience of running a utility? Answers on a postage stamp please!