Why the delay in switching on lights?

ETHEKWINI mayor Zandile Gumede will switch on the Christmas lights in Durban’s CBD on Tuesday.

The ceremony will begin with a multicultural parade from King Dinuzulu Park down Dr Pixley ka Seme Street and end at City Hall.

City spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela said the parade was to celebrate Durban’s diverse cultures and rich heritage, and to demonstrate readiness for the festive season.

Unlike the old days when the lights were switched on at the beginning of December, it has now changed to a week before Christmas.

“It is not etched in stone that it should happen on a particular date and there are supply chain management processes that need to be followed. Hence it is happening on the 18th. Last year it was December 12.”

Former city manager Mike Sutcliffe and former speaker Logie Naidoo were of the view that the fuss over Christmas lights was a big deal in the past.

“Historically, we didn’t have malls and most people shopped in the city. Shops extended trading hours till late, so with the lights on, it was beautiful and attractive; it made the city come alive and ready for the festive season.

“People used to come to see the lights, they took pictures, and it was exciting, but with times changing, it became less of a thing,”said Sutcliffe.

Naidoo said the lights used so much electricity and there was a need to budget for it.

“People used to shop in the CBD because it was a centre of stores. It was attractive. The lights were switched on just in time for the beginning of the holidays. Not everyone shops in the CBD; people are at malls in different parts of Durban, like Chatsworth and umlazi.

“The municipality has also become more responsible. The lights consume a lot of electricity and there has to be a budget for power costs.”

DA councillor Heinz de Boer claimed the event was used to score political points.

“Switching on the lights is not an issue, but our problem is expenditure. There’s a budget for catering and refreshment because the event becomes the platform for the mayor to publicise her political party. It’s no longer about Christmas, but it is used to campaign and promote politics.”