Johannesburg crisis alliance issues demands to fix city services

The Joburg Crisis Alliance (JCA), a coalition of residents and activists, has issued eight commitments and ten priority actions for political candidates ahead of upcoming local elections. The demands aim to address the marked deterioration of Johannesburg caused by maladministration and political instability.

Residents face significant challenges including unreliable water and electricity, deteriorating infrastructure, corruption, and unsafe neighborhoods. Water services are particularly strained; between June 2025 and June 2026, over 50,500 leaks were reported, resulting in an estimated R2.8-billion loss of water. Johannesburg Water has stated it requires over R64-billion over ten years for a turnaround strategy.

Electricity supply is also in crisis, with Johannesburg reporting over R5.6-billion in electricity losses during the 2024/25 period. The city has previously faced threats from Eskom to cut supply due to a R5.2-billion debt owed by the City and City Power.