Category:
Demonstrations and Unrest
Background
Residents from various townships in Tembisa, Gauteng, embarked on a protest in the early morning of Monday, 21 July 2025, effectively shutting down all entrances and exits to the area following the recent implementation of fixed electricity tariffs by the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE). The introduction of the new electricity tariffs has sparked widespread disgruntlement within the local community with many affected residents claiming that the tariffs were implemented without proper consultation, as well as that the implementation contravenes the guidelines established by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA). As a result, numerous households are left without electricity while grappling with rising living costs.
Although the official shutdown commenced early on Monday, signs of growing unrest were already evident the previous day when videos circulated on social media showing protestors placing rocks and burning tyres at key intersections, following a community meeting reportedly held on the same day. The residents hoped that the meeting would provide clarity on the matter however, no clear communication from CoE officials was given. It is reported that during the meeting residents claimed that over 6000 homes in several townships, including Maokeng, have been disconnected from the power supply and community members have accused the City of prioritising revenue collection over the delivery of essential services.
In response to the perceived lack of transparency and consultation, the community has initiated a shutdown protest to draw the City of Ekurhuleni’s attention and demand the immediate scrapping of the newly introduced fixed electricity tariff, alongside launching a petition calling for its reversal.
Key Threats to be Monitored
On the evening preceding the shutdown, protestors began blocking several roads in Tembisa, including Rev RTJ Namane Drive between Makhulong and Mashemong Sections, by placing burning tyres, rocks, and debris across roadways. By the early morning of Monday, 21 July 2025, the protest had escalated significantly, spreading to all major entrance and exit points of the area heavily affecting key routes such as Link Road, Sam Molefe Drive, Brian Mazibuko Drive, George Nyanga Drive, RTJ Namane Drive, and Jabu Mdunge Drive, causing severe traffic disruptions and rendering several roads impassable for motorists. The Adrew Mapheto Street via Sangweni is also affected by the protest. The Public transport operations, particularly taxis, have reportedly been suspended in the affected areas, further compounding the impact on daily commuters. At the time of writing, the situation is reportedly volatile, with most streets still closed due to the protest.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) is deployed to monitor the situation and has warned that the protest action may severely impact the R21 highway which is a major arterial route. Residents have reportedly vowed to continue the shutdown until the City of Ekurhuleni addresses their grievances with urgency.
This is not the first time the Tembisa community has resorted to large-scale protest action in response to service delivery issues. In 2022, widespread demonstrations erupted across the township over similar concerns, including electricity tariffs, poor municipal service delivery, and a lack of meaningful engagement from their local municipality. The unrest lasted for approximately two days, leading to widespread disruption and substantial damage to both infrastructure and property. During the course of the demonstrations, violent clashes were reported, resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. Two individuals were allegedly shot by police, while the other two died near an ATM that exploded as they reportedly attempted to break into it amid the chaos. Hundreds of people were injured, and the damage to public infrastructure was estimated in the millions of rands. Additionally, large parts of the Ekurhuleni township were left without electricity, and the unrest significantly impacted daily life, preventing many residents from travelling to work or attending school.
If these current issues remain unresolved, there is a heightened risk of prolonged unrest, further infrastructure damage, disruption to public services, and potential escalation into violence. Continued instability could also affect local economic activity and put businesses and their employees at risk.
Industry Advice
In light of the ongoing protests and the potential for further escalation, businesses operating in and around Tembisa are strongly advised to remain on high alert. Employers should consider implementing contingency plans, monitoring local updates regularly, and prioritising the safety of both staff and assets. Given the likelihood of clashes between protesters and law enforcement officials, particularly if the situation escalates, it is crucial to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place to minimise the risk of incidental harm. Always follow the instructions of law enforcement authorities. If disruptions intensify, seek shelter in a non-governmental building to avoid potential confrontations. Businesses, especially banks and other vulnerable sites, should take proactive measures to secure their premises against possible vandalism and looting. Staff should be advised to stay informed about the situation and avoid travelling through affected areas unless absolutely necessary.