Backlash over X post

TSHWANE: MAYOR WIDELY CONDEMNED OVER POWER CUT AT WESKOPPIES

- Marizka Coetzer

City of Tshwane mayor Nasiphi Moya has received backlash after bragging on X about cutting power to Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital as part of the Tshwane Ya Tima drive to collect outstanding debt.

Moya said Weskoppies' power would be restored following Gauteng's health commitment to settle the overdue account.

On Monday, the council disconnected electricity supply to Weskoppies hospital due to the Gauteng department of health's failure to settle R1.2 million in overdue electricity charges for March and April.

"This was not a decision taken lightly," said Moya. "We are sensitive to the critical role that hospitals play and deeply respect the work of health care professionals, as well as the duty of care owed to the most vulnerable in our society.

"However, the city has a responsibility to apply its credit control measures fairly and consistently across all customers, including government departments."