By Thabo Mosia
Former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe, now an MP with Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, recently criticised Andre de Ruyter’s tenure at Eskom in an interview with Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh on his SMWX YouTube channel. Molefe, who led Eskom from 2015 to 2016, claims that the crisis of load shedding, which has significantly intensified since his departure, can be attributed to what he called De Ruyter’s “incompetence” and lack of leadership capabilities. Molefe advocated for a shift towards nuclear energy as part of a sustainable solution for South Africa’s energy challenges.
In his interview, Molefe outlined his perspective on Eskom’s management challenges, stating that the company’s ongoing load shedding woes are largely due to poor executive decisions and a lack of adequate support for coal-based energy. He argued that under his leadership, Eskom had managed to significantly reduce load shedding. He criticised the changes in leadership that followed his exit, singling out De Ruyter as a principal figure in what he called the deterioration of Eskom’s operational stability.
“Andre de Ruyter was simply incompetent,” Molefe stated. “The problem at Eskom isn’t the unavailability of resources or technology; it’s the lack of competent leadership. De Ruyter did not know what he was doing, and it shows in the way load shedding has escalated.”Molefe’s comments come at a time when Eskom’s management has faced increasing scrutiny amid high-level resignations, frequent blackouts, and public frustrations over electricity tariffs. He accused De Ruyter’s management team of implementing policies that demotivated Eskom staff, further straining an already challenged workforce.
A Call for Nuclear Energy and Local Production
Molefe highlighted South Africa’s reliance on coal, noting that around 85% of the country’s electricity is generated from coal-fired power plants. He underscored the importance of continued investment in coal as a stable energy source but stressed the need for a long-term transition to nuclear energy. Molefe sees nuclear as a more viable and sustainable solution for South Africa’s energy crisis.
“Nuclear energy is powerful and reliable. Look at France – over 70% of its electricity comes from nuclear reactors, while we only have one [Koeberg]. We need more nuclear plants and smaller, modular reactors that could be deployed around the country,” Molefe explained. “We also have abundant uranium resources across Africa, which could make nuclear energy more affordable and feasible.”Molefe’s vision involves leveraging South Africa’s existing uranium resources to fuel domestic nuclear power. He urged for investment in nuclear technology and training programs to equip South Africans with the necessary skills to operate and manage nuclear facilities. He also proposed shifting focus from being net consumers to net producers, suggesting that South Africa should begin manufacturing essential components like wind turbines and solar panels locally.
Criticism of “Colonial Influence” and the Current Political Landscape
In a discussion about South Africa’s political situation, Molefe criticised the current government’s economic policies and their reliance on Western influence. He argued that South Africa’s dependency on external aid and foreign investment perpetuates “colonial economic structures” that do not empower local communities or industries.
Molefe also commented on the coalition arrangement between the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), and Freedom Front Plus (FF+), which he referred to as a “blue lights arrangement” driven by political elitism rather than a revolutionary agenda for the people.
“This so-called GNU is not a Government of National Unity but a coalition for power and privilege. We must create alternatives, and that’s what MK Party stands for. We have to step away from a system that upholds colonial and apartheid economic structures,” Molefe said.Industry Reactions and Public Response
Molefe’s remarks have sparked significant debate among energy analysts, economists, and the public. Some commentators agree that Eskom’s challenges are largely due to a lack of consistent leadership and vision, while others argue that structural issues in South Africa’s energy mix cannot be solved by leadership changes alone. Critics of Molefe suggest that his tenure was not without its controversies, citing investigations into state capture during his time at Eskom. Molefe, however, maintains his stance, claiming that the evidence linking him to misconduct was never substantiated.
The interview has reignited discussions on the role of renewable energy in South Africa’s energy future. Many question whether Molefe’s push for nuclear is achievable or cost-effective given the high upfront costs of nuclear infrastructure. Environmental groups have also voiced concerns about nuclear energy, arguing that investment in renewable sources like solar and wind should be prioritised to reduce South Africa’s carbon footprint.
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