Swellendam residents protest over indigent benefits

SWELLENDAM - Residents of townships in Swellendam are threatening to shut down the area on Wednesday.

They want the indigent benefits restored to vulnerable communities.

Residents are demanding free basic electricity and rebates for pensioners.

They also want fixed electricity connection charges waived.

WATCH: Municipal building torched in Swellendam

Mayor Francois du Rand says benefits will be reinstated after residents re-register, which has to be done annually.

But communities say the policy must be reviewed.

The shutdown comes after weeks of negotiations with the mayor.

Last month, the municipal office was torched and local businesses were looted.