Opinions divided on De Ruyter’s Eskom departure
André de Ruyter's resignation as Eskom's CEO has yielded
mixed reactions from unions and groups.
Workers union Numsa says it's overjoyed the utility's boss is leaving in March.
Spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola says when De Ruyter started at Eskom he vows to end load shedding within 18 months.
“Unfortunately, we have experienced the worst load shedding in the history of Eskom. De Ruyter’s gross incompetence is the reason why we have shockingly high levels of rolling blackouts. The energy availability factor is the lowest it has ever been, and the economy has gone down the drain.”
READ: De Ruyter resigns as Eskom CEO amid load shedding crisis
But Business Unity SA has described De Ruyter's decision to quit as a major blow for Eskom, and its efforts to address our energy crisis.
The group's Happy Khambule says it's come as no surprise given the irresponsible comments made by some in government and other sectors.
"Eskom must act with urgency to announce a replacement even if that replacement is on a temporary basis. The replacement must have the skills and capability to continue all the efforts to reduce load shedding and to accelerate the Eskom restructuring programme."
"Tackle ongoing corruption and sabotage and work with businesses to diversify the energy generation and distribution environment with a specific focus on clean energy."
