The eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement (ERPM), backed by political parties and several ratepayer associations will lead a mass protest on Wednesday from Curries Fountain at 8am to the Durban City Hall to oppose the proposed double-digit tariff hikes.
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eThekwini ratepayer associations and political parties are joining forces on Wednesday to oppose the proposed double-digit tariff hikes.
The eThekwini Ratepayers Protest Movement (ERPM), backed by political parties and several ratepayer associations across the city, will lead a mass protest from Curries Fountain at 8am to the Durban City Hall.
The demonstration follows eThekwini Municipality’s plans to introduce steep increases in water, electricity, sewage, and refuse removal tariffs for the 2026/2027 financial year.
The draft budget proposes increases of 15% for residential water (16% for businesses), 10.5% for electricity, 5% for property rates, 13% for residential sanitation (14% for businesses), and 13% for refuse removal.
Rose Cortes, deputy chairperson of the ERPM, said a memorandum of demands will be formally handed over to City officials at the City Hall.
"Should the City fail to meet those demands, ERPM and its partners will escalate to rolling mass action. It is concerning that the eThekwini leadership appears fundamentally disconnected from the lived reality of the ratepayers and residents it is mandated to serve.
"Residents are already struggling under the weight of failing services and unaffordable municipal bills. The ERPM remains unwaveringly committed to demanding transparency, accountability, and delivery from this municipality. We will not stand down," said Cortes.
She said they have rejected the City's draft municipal budget and tariff increases.
"The City has ignored every single attempt we made to assist them with alternatives. We want oversight and input into the drafting of the budget. We are calling for an end to wasteful expenditure and for the City to fulfill its mandate. They are here to serve the residents and not financially abuse residents in the metro," said Cortes.