By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – During a media briefing this week, the newly established A-Regime Change Movement—led by Commander in Chief Tseko Rapuleng, delivered a stern message to Eskom, the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality, and the broader QwaQwa community: the days of silence and darkness are over.
The movement, which insists describes itself as a grassroots-driven force, made its position clear.
“We are not here to play politics with people’s lives,” said Rapuleng.
“This is not a political party that will mislead the masses with empty promises. Our grievances are clear, and our demand is urgent. The electricity infrastructure in Maluti-a-Phofung is collapsing, and our people can no longer live without power or dignity.” Eskom’s response, while cautiously optimistic, acknowledged the complexity of the crisis.
“Unfortunately, some of the issues raised fall under the Municipality’s responsibilities, and some are Eskom’s,” said Eskom representative Melanie Van Jaarsveld.
“This is a high-level matter. I cannot speak on behalf of Eskom, but I am confident that our management will respond with a solution. While I don’t know what the future holds, I can say Eskom is committed to helping.”
The movement set a six-month deadline for Eskom to act, emphasizing that this long-standing issue—spanning decades—has crippled both the local economy and quality of life in Maluti-a-Phofung.
“Days in the dark must be over. All residents must be able to purchase electricity and cooperate in building a functioning community,” said Rapuleng.
Commander in Chief Rapuleng was joined by key movement leaders, including Kgoromente Mokoena, Modiehi Mokoena, Tlaleng Sebeko, Anna Radebe, Xolani Msimanga, Tshediso Mopeli, Disemelo Rapuleng, and others. Their presence underlined the unity and urgency behind the movement’s mission.
The Ultimatum gives Eskom 14 days, from the signing date of 25 June 2025, to issue a formal response. This means all eyes are now on 16 July—the deadline for Eskom to clarify its role in resolving the crisis.
“The electricity issue has created a crisis for businesses,” said Suren Ranjith, speaking on behalf of the local business sector. “We congratulate the movement for a clearly articulated document. We now await Eskom’s response on the 16th of July.”
As the countdown begins, one thing is certain: the people of QwaQwa are no longer willing to suffer in silence. The A-Regime Change Movement has emerged not just as a voice of protest, but as a determined force demanding change—lighting the path forward in a region too long left in the dark.
