KZN Public Protector probes Msunduzi billing system

Several ratepayers associations, including Msunduzi Eastwood and Chase Valley, wrote to the Public Protector, saying the new arrangement is causing great confusion and financial distress to residents.

The city introduced a bi-monthly billing cycle several months ago, where some customers are billed mid-month and others, including government and businesses, on the last day.

The Msunduzi Association of Residents, Ratepayers and Civics believes its introduction is irregular and unlawful as residents were never consulted.

READ: Msunduzi ratepayers association to picket over new billing system

But City Manager Lulamile Mapholoba insists numerous meetings were held to discuss the changes with residents.

"We are moving on; we are implementing. Residents are coming forward with issues; they are being addressed. So really, we have no issue on our side, but out of respect, when the Office of the Public Protector contacts us, which I will cooperate with them, we shall demonstrate and show everything that we have done. 

"So we will respond as and when we are approached by the Office of the Public Protector."