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NewsDay

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Zesa to disconnect Bulawayo City Council-run schools

News
Zesa has threatened to switch off power at Bulawayo City Council-run schools and community halls in a bid to force payment of an outstanding council debt, which has now ballooned from $9,2 million to $21 million. A recent council report confirmed the Zesa clampdown. “We have observed that no payment was made to Zesa and […]

Zesa has threatened to switch off power at Bulawayo City Council-run schools and community halls in a bid to force payment of an outstanding council debt, which has now ballooned from $9,2 million to $21 million.

A recent council report confirmed the Zesa clampdown. “We have observed that no payment was made to Zesa and the power utility has now extended its disconnection of power to council schools and community halls,” said Councillor James Sithole in the report.

In March, Zesa switched off power at council’s Tower Block and City Hall after the local authority breached its agreement to pay at least $1,2 million per month to clear the arrears.

Council financial director Kempton Ndimande admitted the local authority was failing to meet its obligations due to cashflow problems.

The local authority is reportedly owed over $76 million by government, industry and commerce as well as domestic debtors.

Meanwhile, Bulawayo residents on Monday held demonstrations at council’s Revenue Hall to protest against water disconnections. To date, the council has disconnected over 14 000 households over unpaid bills.