North West Premier Thandi Modise has called on communities and government departments to pay their rates and taxes for services rendered by municipalities.

The call by the Premier follows the non-payment of services by government and Matlosana residents, in particular, which led to the municipality being unable to pay its accumulated Eskom bill. Eskom in turn threatened to cut off the electricity in the entire municipality.

Matlosana municipality which is being owed over R960 million in taxes and rates, has a bill of R68 million rand with the power utility. The bill has been reduced from last year's October standings of R169 million rand. Premier Modise appealed to community members and government departments, especially those in Matlosana to continue to pay for the services.

Following the intervention by the provincial government, an agreement was reached between the power utility and Matlosana municipality for payment and the Eskom has agreed not to cut electricity supply.

"It is government obligation to support, strengthen the capacity, monitor and supervise municipalities to manage their affairs appropriately" said the Premier.

All the municipalities in the province are owed R5, 3 billion, a situation which makes it difficult for municipalities to deliver on their objectives.

Issued by: North West Office of the Premier