This has given the South African public and the international community the impression that government is unwilling to be open and accountable on the issue of electricity shortages.

The Democratic Alliance will submit parliamentary questions to government that take Ministers Erwin and Hendricks to task over the substance and timing of their claims.

In light of new information, which appeared in this weekend's press, the DA believes the Public Protector has a duty to re-open his investigation.

We're not 'losing' the money we're talking about. That money stays in the community, in the pockets of our constituents. I'm of the opinion they can make a decision on spending it better than we can.

It is designed to highlight the services that county government offers to the community.

The international community stepped up the pressure on the government.