Phoenix pensioner receives life-changing municipal debt relief of R165 000
Relieved
Dr Jonathan Annipen and pensioner, Krishna Moodley.
Image: Supplied
A 65-YEAR-OLD pensioner from Phoenix described a municipal debt write-off of R165 000 as “life-changing” after sustained intervention by IFP councillor Jonathan Annipen brought an end to years of financial and emotional distress.
Krishna Moodley, who lives with his wife, had been struggling under the weight of a long-standing municipal "Unity Account" debt, while managing chronic health conditions on a pensioner’s income.
The escalating bill had become a source of constant anxiety for the couple, raising fears of service interruptions and possible legal action.
“This debt was hanging over us every single day. It affected our health, our sleep, and our peace of mind. We are pensioners with medical issues, and the stress made everything worse,” said Moodley.
He said he spent years seeking assistance from various political offices and councillors, only to be met with repeated disappointment.
“We tried everywhere we were told to go. Each time we were hopeful, and each time we were disappointed. Eventually, we began to lose hope that anyone would actually help us.”
That changed when Moodley was referred to Annipen.
According to Moodley, Annipen’s office took the matter seriously from the outset, carefully reviewing the account history and engaging directly with the municipality.
“Dr Annipen did not dismiss us or send us away. He listened, he followed through, and he delivered. That made all the difference.”
Following sustained engagement and scrutiny of the account, the municipality approved a full write-off of the R165 000 debt, bringing immediate relief to the couple.
“When we were told the debt was written off, it felt like a weight was lifted off our shoulders. We can now focus on our health and live without fear. We are deeply grateful. This showed us that there are leaders who still care. Sometimes all people need is someone willing to listen and act."
Annipen said the case underscored the critical role of accountable and compassionate public representation, particularly for vulnerable residents.
“Pensioners should not have to live under the constant stress of unmanageable municipal debt, especially where there are clear grounds for intervention. My responsibility is to ensure that residents are treated with dignity and fairness, and that legitimate grievances are resolved through proper processes.
“Effective governance must balance financial sustainability with compassion. Elderly residents and pensioners deserve particular care and consideration, especially when circumstances place them at risk of undue hardship,” said Annipen.