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Gauteng Government Seeks Loan to Cover R12 Billion for E-Toll Scrapping, Says Lesufi
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced that the provincial government plans to borrow money to settle the R12.9 billion e-toll debt owed to the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral). Lesufi, speaking after the State of the Province Address (Sopa), stated that negotiations with the National Treasury on e-toll scrapping have been intense and challenging. While an agreement on a 30-70% split was reached, discussions on how to pay the R12.9 billion debt caused delays.
[WATCH]: Post State of the Province Address media briefing.
Premier @Lesufi details the interventions made by the provincial government to ensure the switching-off of the #etolls in the province. #GPSOPA2024 pic.twitter.com/UOEVgQlln2
— Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) February 20, 2024
Also read: DA States “No End in Sight for E-Tolls in Gauteng”
Lesufi revealed that Gauteng would seek funds from financial institutions to repay the debt rather than allocating funds from the provincial budget. The formal process to switch off and delink e-tolls will begin on 31 March, pending the gazetting of the notice to switch off the tolls. Lesufi emphasised that the process isn’t straightforward and requires satisfying borrowing markets, agreeing on plans, and aligning with the law.
The announcement comes after years of discontent with the e-tolling system, which has been operational since 2013, leading to non-payment by many motorists. Lesufi condemned the behaviour of some opposition parties during the Sopa, particularly a physical confrontation involving Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members and beneficiaries of the Nasi iSpani program. Despite the chaos, Lesufi managed to deliver his address uninterrupted.
Source: ‘It’s not that simple’: Gauteng govt seeking loan to pay R12 billion for e-toll scrapping – Lesufi
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Picture: X / Oscar Masiya
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