Hertta-Maria Amutenya
The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has expressed concern about the cost of electricity, emphasising the urgent need for transparency and accountability from all involved stakeholders this week.
In a recent statement, demanding clarity on the factors contributing to these prices, the PDM stressed the need for both the government and regulatory bodies to prioritise the welfare of the people.
Highlighting the plight of ordinary citizens, especially those in remote areas, PDM Secretary for Information and Publicity, Hidipo Hamata, stressed the necessity for immediate action to alleviate financial burdens imposed by exorbitant electricity prices.
Hamata emphasised that every Namibian has the right to reliable and affordable electricity, and no one should face undue hardships in accessing essential connection services.
“Electricity is not a luxury; it is a fundamental necessity for households, businesses, and communities alike. However, the current pricing structure, which equates electricity units to exorbitant sums per thousand dollars, undermines the basic rights of our citizens to affordable and accessible electricity,” said Hamata
He further called for an end to bureaucratic hurdles faced by consumers, particularly in remote areas, in obtaining essential infrastructure such as transformers.
In addition, the party reiterated its commitment to supporting the rights and interests of all Namibians, particularly those marginalised or disadvantaged by unjust economic policies.
“We demand an end to the delays and bureaucratic hurdles faced by consumers, particularly in remote areas, in accessing essential infrastructure such as transformers. Every Namibian has the right to reliable and affordable electricity, and no one should be subjected to undue hardships or additional financial burdens in obtaining basic connection services.
We stand united in our condemnation of unjust electricity prices and call for immediate action to rectify this situation. Electricity should be a service that empowers our people, not one that burdens them with unaffordable costs,” said Hamata.
Moreover, the party is urging for collective action from citizens, civil society organisations, and the private sector to address the root causes of energy inequality and promote social justice.
Last year, the Electricity Control Board (ECB) approved a price increase request for electricity by Central North Regional Electricity Distributor (CENORED), at a rate of 7.6 per cent for the entity, which mainly operates in central parts of Namibia.
CENORED initially applied to ECB to increase its rates by 8.0 percent and 3.5 per cent in both Otjozondjupa and Omaheke regions. However, the regulator only approved an increase of 7.3 percent and 3.3 percent.
This, in essence, means domestic consumers pay N$ 100 for 35 units of electricity from the initial 40 units, whereas businesses will pay N$ 100 for 20 units as opposed to 25 units, and prepaid clients in farms and plots will earn 17 units from 19 units for N$ 100.
