A South African minister apologising for loadshedding? That’s unheard of. But even more surprising? The internet’s response – one of gratitude, respect and a rare moment of unity (mostly).
Johannesburg, South Africa (27 February 2025) – It’s a rare moment in South African politics when a government minister takes full accountability, offers a heartfelt apology, and acknowledges the frustration of the people. Even rarer? A wave of positivity and support in response.
But that’s exactly what happened when Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy, took to social media to say sorry for the most recent bout of loadshedding.
Loadshedding has been a thorn in South Africa’s side for years. It’s an issue that has disrupted businesses, homes and everyday life. So when the country recently experienced intensified power cuts again, the expectation was the usual frustration, anger and resignation. But then, something different happened. The Minister issued an apology. And the internet responded.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my most sincere apology for the gross inconvenience and disruption inflicted on households, business and industry as a result of loadshedding experienced over the past 3 days.
Loadshedding of any intensity should never be normalised in our country.
I also want to thank the competent, skilled, patriotic and hardworking men and women of ESKOM led by the Group CEO Mr Dan Marokane for returning the generating units swiftly back into operation.
I give you my assurance that we are working hard to eliminate loadshedding permanently in our country. As we do this, we are likely to suffer temporary setbacks as we did recently, but we will prevail in the end.
I will soon be announcing comprehensive measures to end load-reduction in our villages, townships, and suburbs. We are determined to achieve electricity for ALL that is always available, affordable and of quality.”
Now, the internet is not known for its kindness, and there were, of course, those who met the apology with scepticism and frustration.
“We need uninterrupted electricity, not apologies, bafo.” – Mashudu Lucky
“Maybe I could get a refund for spoiled food… especially since it’s so expensive these days.” – Atsrolab
Fair points, considering the impact of rolling blackouts. But here’s where things took an unexpected turn. Instead of being drowned in negativity, the Minister’s post sparked something almost unheard of… gratitude, encouragement and even respect. For the first time in memory, a minister’s public apology was met with genuine appreciation. South Africans, known for calling things as they are, acknowledged that this was different. That accountability matters. That an apology, when sincere, is a step in the right direction.
“Thank you for apologising. You’re the first minister to do so.” – Debbie Pieterse
“Thank you for your apology, Sputla. It really means a lot to some of us. I hope your colleagues can learn from your example and also apologise when they fall short in their job specs. Good luck to yourself & the Eskom team. Keep letting us know how we can help.” – Penuel
“Thanks, Minister. Great to see not only accountability, but good manners we don’t usually get from government. This stuff matters. We all want the country to succeed.” – Gareth Cliff
“Thank you for this. After the Zuma years, when we were treated like children (firepool nonsense etc.), it’s nice to know that someone in power has the humanity and humility to apologise. We are behind you and we support you, and I am personally confident you and your team will succeed in ending loadshedding permanently.” – Ciro De Siena
South Africans are realists. We know an apology alone won’t solve the problem but we also know that leadership starts with accountability. This moment, as simple as it may seem, has shifted the conversation. Instead of just criticism, there is cautious optimism. Instead of hopelessness, there is a glimmer of trust being restored.
This is the kind of energy (pun intended) we need to move forward. If this is the start of a leadership style that embraces responsibility and transparency, then perhaps, just perhaps, we’re heading in the right direction.
And that? That’s something worth celebrating.
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