Amidst a failed supply of electricity and a huge outcry from consumers who have already been hard hit by the current economic status quo, the country’s sole electricity supplier – ESCOM – has applied to the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) that it wants to hike its tariffs.

MERA on its website has acknowledged receiving the application from ESCOM which will see an effectual 58% increase in electricity from January 1, 2014 if MERA approves. So far, MERA has disclosed that it is considering the proposal put to it by ESCOM.

However, Consumer Rights Activist John Kapito has said that his body will challenge the application made by ESCOM as it will burden many consumers.