Eskom has reported severe operational disruptions at its Mpumalanga power stations over the past two weeks due to violent protests sparked by fake job advertisements circulating on social media.
Misinformation Fuels Unrest
Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena confirmed that false posts claiming job openings at power stations led to crowds submitting CVs and staging protests, some turning violent.
“These protests are criminal and hinder our ability to maintain stable electricity generation,” Mokwena told SABC News.
Impact on Operations
The unrest has forced Eskom to heighten security as demonstrators block access to key facilities. The utility warns that continued disruptions could worsen South Africa’s power supply challenges.
Eskom urges the public to rely on official channels for job listings and reports fraudulent posts to authorities.
