Transcript: 6th Special Council Meeting

Opening, procession and prayer

00:08:02Good morning, councillors.

00:08:07Members of the bereaved family,

00:08:11ladies and gentlemen in the gallery,

00:08:14let us all please rise except for members of the bereaved family

00:08:20to welcome the Speaker of Council,

00:08:25Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu.

00:08:37Can we kindly observe a moment of silence for prayer and meditation.

00:08:52Thank you, everyone. You may be seated.

Notice of the special sitting and Speaker's acknowledgement

00:09:28Good morning, everyone. It is hereby notified that the sixth special council meeting of the City of Johannesburg municipality, in honour of the late Councillor Mathe, Z. E. Mathe, will be held at the Constance Connie Bapela Council Chamber in Braamfontein on Thursday, 27th of February 2025, at 9 a.m. And the first item there is opening and acknowledgement by the speaker.

00:09:57When Monday, the 17th of February 2025, ended without one of us. When Tuesday, the 18th of February 2025, started without Councillor Zakhele Ephraim Mathe to see the sunrise and see the sunset, when we all faced each day of last week with tears in our eyes, when we come to the ordinary council meeting today without one of us.

00:10:27Without one of us having to attend council meeting, Councillor Zakhele Mathe is not here with us. This has often followed by sadness of having lost two other councillors in less than 2 months. After we pledged messages of condolences and prayers for the Nonkumbi family and the Amod family last month,

00:10:53today we are here again for another councillor. Lord, have mercy on us as we battle with the loss of our councillors.

00:11:04SesothoModimo o re thuse o re hauhele

00:11:05as the City of Johannesburg.

00:11:08isiZuluNkosi yiba nomusa kithi namakhansela asedolobheni lase

00:11:12Johannesburg. Good morning, fellow councillors, the Mathe, the Sibisi and Ndabathi families, officials, and community members present in the special council meeting. Thank you very much to the bereaved family for honouring the invite to the special council meeting.

00:11:32As you are facing each day at a time coping with brief with grief, learning to live without your loved one, we come into your space, not to add salt to your fresh wounds, but to walk a journey of reflection with you as the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Council.

Applications for leave of absence

00:12:00We proceed with application for leave of absence.

00:12:10Different caucus whips, do we have any leave of absence? I'll start with Councillor Avant-Smith, then after Councillor Dammie, then after Councillor Simonse, in that order, please. Councillor Makhuba, you'll be the fourth one. Councillor Mogapi, the fifth. I don't see any other hand. Councillor Avant-Smith.

00:12:36Thank you, Speaker, and my condolences to the family. We have Councillor Dewes, Councillor Ngwengwana, Councillor Fourie-Shawe, off ill today. We have Councillor Shawe, who will only arrive later, as will Councillor Rambani. Thank you.

00:12:59Noted. Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Dammie.

00:13:07Good morning, Speaker. Good morning, councillors, the bereaved family. Apologies from the caucus. Councillor Chief Whip of Council, Councillor Zungu, bereavement. The Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, private business. Councillor Kwapeng, ill health. Councillor Makaula, arrive late. Thank you, Speaker.

00:13:36Noted, Councillor. Councillor Simonse.

00:13:39Good morning, Madam Speaker. Good morning, bereaved family. Just late arrivals, MMC Kunene, Councillor Juane Ponsonby, and Councillor Debbie Wilskut.

00:13:49Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Makhuba.

00:13:55Good morning, Speaker. For the IFP, Councillor Mabaso will arrive late.

00:13:59Noted, Councillor. Councillor Mogapi.

00:14:04Greetings, everyone. Condolences to the family of Mathe. From the EFF side, apologies, it's Councillor Molefe, ill health; Councillor Molala, maternity leave; and Councillor Mokwena, she's running late. Thank you.

00:14:21Thank you, councillors. Do we approve those apologies as submitted?

00:14:30Councillors, we move to the message of condolences by the Executive Mayor.

00:14:37Councillor MMC Mnisi, you'll be the one standing in for the Executive Mayor.

00:14:48MMC? MMC Mnisi,

00:14:51isiZulungicela ulinde kancane.

00:14:51Councillor Hughes from the ACDP.

00:14:53Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I'd just like to add to the apologies. Councillor Harris and Councillor Mkhonza will not be joining us today. Thank you, ma'am.

00:15:04Noted, Councillor. Councillors, do we approve or note those apologies with the two from ACDP?

Condolence message by the Executive Mayor (delivered by MMC Mnisi)

00:15:22Madam Speaker, the family of Councillor Zakes Mathe, councillors present here in Council Chamber today, and the ANC caucus. It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Councillor Zakes Mathe, a dedicated

00:15:52public servant, and a steadfast leader who served his community with passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Councillor Mathe was not just a colleague, he was a champion of the people, an advocate for justice, service delivery, and the upliftment of those he respected, or rather represented.emotive

00:16:22His tireless efforts and contributions to local government will be deeply missed, not only by those who had the privilege of working alongside with him, but also by the many residents who lived, or whose lives he touched. As he takes his final bow and walks into the sunset, we remember a life well-lived,emotive

00:16:54a life dedicated to the service of others. Though he has breathed his last and gone to his eternal rest, his legacy will continue to shine like a guiding light for those of us left behind. While death may have knocked on his door, his spirit and impact will never be forgotten. On behalf of the City,emotive

00:17:24the Council, and the residents we serve, I extend my heartfelt and comrades' condolences. May they find strength and comfort during this difficult time. His legacy of service and dedication will forever be remembered. May the spirit of Comrade Councillor Zakes Mathe rest in peace. Thank you, Madam Speaker.emotive

00:17:58Thank you, MMC Mnisi.

Condolence message by the African National Congress

00:18:29Thank you. We now move to the message of condolence by the African National Congress.

00:18:38MMC Mgcina.

00:19:00The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Sello Dada Morero in absentia; the Speaker of Council of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu; the Chair of Chairs, Councillor Vonani Adolph Marema; the Council Chief Whip, Councillor Sthembiso Zungu in absentia;

00:19:30the Leader of the Executive Business, Councillor Loyiso Masuku in absentia; the Acting City Manager, Mr. Tshepo Makola in absentia; the leaders of various political parties, fellow colleagues, MMCs and Ward Councillors, as well as PR Councillors, members of the media,

00:19:59residents of this great, resilient City of Johannesburg. A special greetings and acknowledgment to the family of the late Councillor Zakhele Mathe. Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. We gather here today to honour and remember our departed and dear colleague, the late Councillor Zakhele Zakes Mathe, whose untimely death

00:20:3110 days ago sent shockwaves throughout the city and left us all poorer at his senseless loss. As it was with heavy hearts that we said goodbye and laid him to rest this past weekend, as he was not only a comrade, but also a local community leader whose contribution to our residents' development we all looked forward

00:21:03to and experiencing. Although we worked together for a short period here in Council, he carried himself with incredible courage, dedication, and integrity. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his work in Ward 24, and his passion for justice and equality was evident in every action he took.emotive

00:21:33He stood for the truth and transparency until his senseless and untimely passing. Councillor Mathe never hesitated to stand up for what was right, even in the face of danger. And we are proud to say that he carried himself well and executed his mandate with extreme gallantry and dexterity. As we reflectemotive

00:22:04on the profound impact that Councillor Mathe had on our community and the community of Ward 24, we are reminded of the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment that defined his service. Madam Speaker, Councillor Mathe was not just a public servant, he was a beacon of hope, a symbol of integrity, and a voice for the voiceless. His effortsemotive

00:22:35to improve the community of Ward 24, to champion justice, and to foster unity will forever be engraved in our memories. He worked tirelessly to make his community a better place, and in doing so, he touched many lives. In the face of intimidation, Councillor Mathe remained steadfast and resolute. His courage and resilience inspired usemotive

00:23:05to believe that positive change is possible, even in the most challenging times. He understood that the strength of the community lies in its ability to come together, to support one another, and to stand united against injustices. As we mourn the loss of our councillor, Councillor Zakhele Mathe, let us also celebrate his lifeemotive

00:23:36and the remarkable contribution he sought to make to the community of Ward 24. Let us remember him not for the way he was taken from us, but for the incredible legacy that he leaves behind, a legacy of kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication and service to the people of his ward. In this time of sadness, let us find comfort in the knowledge that Councillor Mathe's spirit livesemotive

00:24:09in each of us. He has left an incredible mark in our hearts and minds, and it is now our responsibility to carry forward his vision for a brighter, more just, and inclusive society. To the Mathe family, we offer our deepest condolences. Your loss is immeasurable, and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.emotive

00:24:39We are grateful for the sacrifices you have made in sharing him with us, and we pledge to honour his memory by continuing the work he passionately believed in. To the comrades in the Greater Johannesburg Region of the African National Congress, colleagues here in Council, and the community of Ward 24, which he died serving, we extend our deepest condolences.emotive

00:25:09As the African National Congress in the entire Greater Johannesburg,emotive

00:25:14isiZulusithi emndenini sithi akuhlanga lungehliyo, nilale ngenxeba bazali.emotive

00:25:23As I conclude, comrades, colleagues, and the Mathe family, I leave you with the words of Moses in the Book of Exodus chapter 14 verse 14. And I quote: "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Close quote. Your loss is our loss, and we shall share in your grief. Please know that Councillor Mathe's legacyemotive

00:25:53will live on in our hearts, and he will never be forgotten, most definitely. Your spirit will continue to guide us, and your memory will forever be our beacon of hope and strength.emotive

00:26:08isiZuluLala ngoxolo Mkhabatheli, Ncanana, Thenjwayo, Dlakude, Mzilikazi, Mzilankatha.emotive

00:26:18I thank you, Madam Speaker.emotive

00:26:23Thank you, MMC Mgcina.

Condolences: ACDP

00:26:32Councillors, we are now on messages of condolences by the other political parties.

00:26:42ACDP, Councillor Rohlssen. Councillors, please note you have 3 minutes each.

00:27:13A very good morning to you, honourable colleagues, and all protocols observed. The ACDP would like to extend its sincere, heartfelt condolences to the family of Councillor Mathe and to the honourable colleagues of the ANC caucus. Also, every person that has been affected in any way through this tragedy, we extend our sincere condolences

00:27:43to you and your families as well. Honourable colleagues, today we celebrate a champion, a person that fought for the rights of the poor, that fought for people, and we also, when we have these type of moments, it is not always easy to find solutions or to deal with these matters, especiallyemotive

00:28:15after we've been with people who have comforted us and who have stood by our side. When we are alone in the evenings, it is then the reality sets in, the pain that we then face when there's the silence of the day. And I want to encourage the colleagues that have lost their friend and their colleague and their councillor, and their family, that when you are alone and you are facing that moment,emotive

00:28:46where you are alone and you're facing that pain, I want to encourage you that you are not actually alone, but the Lord Jesus Christ is still there. Even though you cannot see him physically, he is there, there to comfort you. And I implore you to reach out to him when you do not have the answers, when you do not even know what questions to ask, but speak to him. Ask him, "What do I do? Help me." He will be there with you. He will comfort you. He will give you a peaceemotive

00:29:17that no human being can give you. And may the Lord comfort the honourable colleagues of the ANC caucus, everyone that's been affected, and the dear family of Councillor Mathe. I pray, Lord, your hand over these precious people, Lord. Please comfort them, please be with them, and please show them the way forward. I pray this in Jesus' precious name. I thank you.emotive

Condolences: ActionSA

00:29:46Thank you, Councillor Rohlssen. ActionSA, Councillor Mposula, you have 3 minutes.

00:30:24Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings to you, uh greetings to the mayor. All protocol observed. Um I want to start by um saying to the family,

00:30:36isiZuluakwehlanga lungehlanga.emotive

00:30:38As Action SA uh we just want to offer our deepest condolences. We are gathered today to celebrate the life of a champion for service delivery, a man who was loved and he loved his people. The people of Ward 24 they have been robbed of a leader who served them diligently.emotive

00:31:05I liken Councillor Zakes to a bird known as a thorn bird. A thorn bird sings only once in its life. It will live its life searching for a bush that has got thorns. Once it finds that bush, it will go and impale itself on that particular thorn and the thorn will penetrate itsemotive

00:31:35tiny tummy. It will bleed. But the beauty is that that thorn will release the song that was locked inside. A thorn bird will sing and sing and sing and sing until it can't sing no more. It will eventually die. But when it dies, it will die a satisfied death. And Councillor Zakes, he served and served and served. Councillor Zakes, he worked and worked and worked for his people.emotive

00:32:07Councillor Zakhele, he gave and gave and gave to the poor. He was celebrated by everyone, and he mastered the art of dying empty. And when he died, he died a satisfied death. Paul, when he wrote a letter to Timothy, his protégé, he says, "Timothy, I have fought a good fight. I have run a good race, and I have kept my faith. What is left for me is to receive the crown of righteousness."emotive

00:32:38Zakhele, the crown he has already received. He has served our people and he has served very well.emotive

00:32:45isiZuluUnkulunkulu ngathi anganibusisa athi masekebhala athiemotive

00:32:48"What can separate us from the love of God? Is it pain? Is it poverty?emotive

00:32:53isiZuluAthiemotive

00:32:53"But through it all, we are conquerors through Christ Jesus.emotive

00:32:56isiZuluSizobonana naye kwelizayo. Siyabonga.emotive

00:33:04isiZuluSiyabonga, Councillor Mposula.

Condolences: AIC

00:33:06AIC, Councillor Mhlongo. You have 3 minutes.

00:33:22Uh, thank you very much, Madam Speaker, Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu, Executive Mayor Dada Morero in absentia, members of the Mayoral Committee, Chief Whip of Council Councillor Zungu in absentia,

00:33:39isiZuluUmndeni wakwaMathe,emotive

00:33:43fellow councillors, and chairpersons of Section 79 committees, distinguished guests, comrades and friends. Today we gather in mourning, yet also in deep appreciation as we honor the life and legacy of a man who gave so much of himself to his people, Councillor Zakes Mathe. This is a difficult moment for all of us as we come to terms with the loss of a leader,emotive

00:34:12a colleague, a friend, and a brother in the struggle for justice and dignity. Councillor Mathe was a man of the people. His leadership was not about occupying an office or holding a title. It was about being present, listening, and acting. He knew the faces, the names, and the struggles of the people of Ward 24 because he didn't walk alone. He walked with them. He was never above the people. He was among them.emotive

00:34:42A servant leader in the truest sense. He understood that being a councillor is not just about policy and governance, uh, but about humanity. He stood firm in his commitment to improving the lives of most vulnerable. Whether it was fighting for better services, advocating for housing, or ensuring that no family went to bed hungry, he carried the struggles of his people in his heart. He was a champion for the working class, for the poor,emotive

00:35:11for those who had been forgotten and left behind. To the Mathe family, we know that words cannot take away the pain that you are feeling right now. We know that you have lost not only a leader, but a loved one, a husband, a father, a son, a brother. We thank you for sharing him with us. We thank you for... Sorry. Sorry. Sorry, Madam Speaker. Um we thank you for sharing him with us and with the people of Johannesburg.emotive

00:35:43His sacrifice... Sorry, Madam Speaker, again. Hey, these things. His sacrifice, Madam Speaker, uh his sacrifice was not in vain, but for the for he leaves behind a legacy that will stand the test of time. To his colleagues in Council and the ANC, his political home, let us not allow his work to be in vain. Let us commit ourselves to the very ideals he lived and fought for.emotive

00:36:16Let us continue his mission to bring dignity, justice, and better life for our communities. Councillor Mathe did not simply hold office. He held the aspirations of his people. And is now upon us to pick up where he left off. Let us not only remember by his words and actions, but let us embody his spirit. Let us find strength in his example and draw courage from his unwavering dedication. His passing is a great loss,emotive

00:36:44but his life was a great gift to his family, to his community and to all of us. Rest in peace, dear comrade. Your work here is done, but your spirit will live on the streets you walked, in the people you served, and in the movement you helped build.emotive

00:37:02isiZuluLala ngokuthula, uh, Councillor Zakes Mathe. Akwehlanga lungehlanga emndenini.emotive

00:37:09Your legacy will never fade. Thank you, Madam Speaker.emotive

00:37:15isiZuluSiyabonga, Councillor Mhlongo.

Condolences: ATM

00:37:17ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

00:37:35isiXhosaMandizibulisele kuwe Speaker. Ndibulise ku Executive Mayor in absentia, ndibulise ku Chief Whip in absentia, ndibulise ku Chair of Chairs, ndibulise koMMC, ndibulise koChairperson, ndibulise kwicouncillors zonke. Ndibulise nakumaqabane kaTambo. Ndibulise ngokukhethekileyo kwifamily yakwaMathe.

00:38:05As the ATM, we would like to pass our condolences to the Mathe family and the ANC caucus in the Greater Johannesburg region. There can be no excuse as to why the government failed to protect Councillor Mathe when the red flags were there. The number one responsibility of every government is the safety and security of its citizens. Our people cannot continue to be prisoners in their own yards. You open the gate.emotive

00:38:35You lock the gate. You open the burglar door. You open the door. You lock the burglar door. You lock the door. You open the door to your bedroom, then lock the bedroom. Clearly, the people are prisoners in their own yards. The difference is that they hold the keys to their own prison. It is indeed a shame that the number one citizen of a ward could not be protected. We have councillors in this houseemotive

00:39:05who have previously been ambushed by communities. Whilst we pray that the family find comfort and reliefemotive

00:39:12isiXhosakwintlungu yabo,emotive

00:39:15we also pray thatemotive

00:39:16isiXhosauThixo wokhokho bethu azigcine azikhusele zonke iicouncillors ezilapha kule chamber,emotive

00:39:22as they continue to fight for the total emancipation of the people. The total emancipation of the people goes hand in glove with being socio-economically viable, a conducive political environment where there's tolerance and above all, spirituality. The greatest honor we can give to Councillor Mathe as this house will be to serve the people of Johannesburg. Deliver on the promise to create a better tomorrow for them and their descendants.emotive

00:39:52isiXhosaYanga uThixo wethu angawenzela inceba umphefumlo wakhe, awuphumlise ngoxolo, enze ababulali bakhe babanjwe. Sikucela konke oku ngoKrestu iNkosi yethu, amen.emotive

00:40:04Peace in our land, peace in our lifetime.emotive

00:40:06isiZuluSiyabonga, Speaker.emotive

00:40:10isiZuluSiyabonga, Councillor Magwentshu.

Condolences: COPE

00:40:11COPE, Councillor Mokome.

00:40:27Uh, thank you, Madam Speaker, and good morning. Can I also acknowledge the Mathe family, Sibisi, and Hlabathi. Can I also acknowledge the Executive Mayor in absentia, Chief Whip in absentia, the Mayoral Committee members and the

00:40:59fellow councillors, COC and the Section 79 chairs, the caucus of the African National Congress in the Joburg region, Acting City Manager Tshepo Makola in absentia, Secretary to Council Andile Gobinca, and officials, members of the media in the gallery,

00:41:28residents of Johannesburg, ladies and gentlemen.

00:41:34SepediBagaetsho mo motseng wo waiana, re tla re rena re le ba Congress of the People, COPE, re a le dumedisha boMathe le kgoro yeno ya boHlabathi le boSibisi. Ra re la maabane le phirimile bagaetsho.emotive

00:42:00SetswanaMme la gompieno ke go amogela le go ipaakanyetsa la kamoso le le tlhabang. Robala ka kagiso Councillor Zakes Mathe, tiro ya gago o e dirile. Mme re lebogela bogatlhamelamasisi bo re go boneng o bo eteletse pele magago jaakaemotive

00:42:26councillor in the City of Joburg. But Madam Speaker, when things are like this, one is inclined to find solace in the Catholic Calming Prayer. "Loving God, grant me peace of mind and calm in my troubled heart. My soul is like a turbulent sea. I can't seem to seeemotive

00:43:02to find my balance, so I stumble and worry constantly. Give me strength and clarity of mind to find purpose and walk in the path you have laid out for me." This is paraphrased by the Xavier University. Madam Speaker, this petition from the soul dovetails into the Serenity Prayeremotive

00:43:37by Reinhold Niebuhr. "Lord, grant me the serenity to accept things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Amen and amen." Thank you, Madam Speaker.emotive

00:44:08SesothoKe a leboga, Councillor Mokome.

Condolences: DA

00:44:10DA, Councillor Sifumba.

00:44:21Thank you very much, Speaker. To the Mathe family, fellow councillors, and ANC Johannesburg caucus.

00:44:33SetswanaBagaetsho,

00:44:34we gather here today with profound sorrow to mourn the tragic and untimely passing of Councillor Zakhele Zakes Mathe, a dedicated public servant who was brutally taken from us. As members of the Democratic Alliance caucus, we stand united with his family, colleagues, comrades, and community in grief, remembering a life devoted to service, justice, and the people of Johannesburg.emotive

00:45:04Councillor Mathe's commitment to his community was unwavering. He believed in the power of democracy, the strength of unity, and the necessity of public service in uplifting the lives of those he represented. His loss is not only a blow to his family, but also to the people whose lives he touched with his leadership, compassion, and vision. We are deeply saddened that a leader who worked tirelessly for his people was taken in such a senseless and violent manner.emotive

00:45:38But even in the moment of darkness, we take comfort in the words of the Lord in Psalms 147 verse 3. It says, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." To the family of Councillor Mathe, we cannot begin to imagine the depth of your pain, but please know that you are not alone. As colleagues and fellow public servants, we mourn with you.emotive

00:46:10We stand beside you, and we offer our deepest sympathies. May you find peace in the promise of Revelation 21 verse 4 that says, "He will wipe every tear from your eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." In his passing, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of standing together against violence and injustice.emotive

00:46:40We must honor Councillor Mathe's memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about, building a city where democracy thrives, where leaders serve with integrity, and where every citizen is free from fear. We hold on to the assurance of 2 Timothy 4 verse 7, knowing that Councillor Mathe could rightfully say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."emotive

00:47:09May his soul rest in eternal peace and may his legacy inspire us all to thrive for a better tomorrow. May the good Lord Almighty protect us all.emotive

00:47:20isiZuluAkwehlanga lungehlanga emndenini wakwaMathe. Ngiyabonga, amen.emotive

Condolences: EFF (MMC Tshwaku)

00:47:26Thank you, Councillor Sifumba. EFF, MMC Tshwaku.

00:47:51Uh, good morning, Speaker.

00:47:54isiXhosaMolweni kwifamily kaBra Zakes Mathe.

00:47:58Greetings to the Speaker, the party Whip of the EFF,

00:48:01SesothoSepantlhele Raseruthe,

00:48:03the caucus, the Chief Whip of the ANC, and the entire caucus of the ANC.

00:48:08isiXhosaUh, okokuqala ndicela ukuthi

00:48:10condolences uh

00:48:12isiZulumagogo, mama, nawe sisi, uh,

00:48:16for the loss that you have experienced.

00:48:19isiXhosaUh, silapha nje,

00:48:20we gather today in memory of our dear colleague, Zakes. Uh, when we heard of his passing uh, mama, uh, we were very shocked and were very saddened. We knew him very well. We worked with him. And uh

00:48:33isiZuluukufa

00:48:34has taken someone genuinely uh, and someone very warm, and someone that we really liked to really work with. He was a good friend. While we mourn a loss of a colleague, we pray, we must pray. We must pay a tribute and celebrate a life that was well lived. Uh, Zakes was committed to really serve his community. Um, Zakes did not see whether you are coming from the EFF, you coming from the any other political party,

00:49:03but Zakes was able to work, to really break those uh, um, you know, the political lines and able to work with everyone. Just you know, ma, Zakes, the time I was sworn in as an MMC,

00:49:16isiZuluwathi uyabona kimi, "Heyi, mshana,"

00:49:18"Hey, we need to clean Ward 24 because Ward 24 has a lot of criminality. Ward 24, there are people who are extortionists, people who when the projects are coming into wards, there are thugs and criminals,"

00:49:32isiZuluizinkabi

00:49:33that are killing

00:49:33isiZuluabantu.

00:49:34So, Zakes, he said, "Mshana, we need to we need to fight this thing." And then he was part of the people who have inspired the Department of Public Safety to establish a TRU unit. It's a Tactical Reaction Unit. Uh we established it on that year. And I'm really glad to say, ma, is that through the efforts of the TRU and also of the Vumacam, we've managed to intercept a car, a getaway car, that was carrying the killers of Zakes.

00:50:04And to tell you right now that the case is with the Hawks. Uh so

00:50:09isiZululomuntu lona esimbambile

00:50:10was saying that

00:50:11isiZuluukuthi

00:50:11he was just um he was being told that he was going to do um he was just transporting, there's some work that they were going to be doing. Little did he know that he was going to be killing a councillor. So, we've managed to do that, ma'am. So, that case now is with the Hawks. And um people, he complained that many people are getting mugged in the morning as they go to work. And then we promised him that we're going to give him

00:50:39there's a way there, there's that road, ma'am, if you see um when people are coming to Ward 24. So we said that we're going to uh give him a camera and two radios for each VD. And in his name and memory, ma'am, that is going to happen. Um so in his own quiet and calm manner, he showed how to work through the challenging times. This is, ma'am, this is a particularly difficult time, ma'am. There's nothing that we can do that we can bring him back,

00:51:08but only thing we can do,

00:51:09isiZulumagogo,

00:51:10is to just give you our time and to be with you on this time, sis. Uh we loved him and we really worked with him uh very, very well. On behalf of the caucus of the EFF, um we pass our sincere condolences to you and the family. And

00:51:29isiXhosasithi kuye lala ngokuphumla, mfondini, mfowethu. Lala, Councillor Mathe. Ndlela entle, Mzilankatha, Ncanana, Thembayo, Mkhonto kaDem, ugqatso lwakho ulufezile.

00:51:41You might have lost him now in this world, mama, but you've gained

00:51:45isiXhosaisinyanya,

00:51:46the ancestor. Thank you very much.

Condolences: IFP

00:51:52isiZuluSiyabonga, MMC. IFP, Councillor Mkhize.

00:52:24isiZuluAngibonge, Speaker. Angikubingelele, ngibingelele i-Executive Mayor, ngibingelele i-caucus ye-IFP, ngibingelele amakhansela ase-City of Johannesburg ahloniphekile nonke, sanibonani. Sihlangene ngesimo esibike namhlanje, sihlangene ngomndeni wakwaMathe, ngokushiya kukaKhansela uMathe. Okuyisimo esibuhlungu kakhulu. Ngizoqala

00:52:56isiZulungikhalele kakhulu iqembu le-ANC, okuwumndeni wakhe wesibili obuhlala naye usuku nosuku. Anilahlekelwe nodwa bafowethu, silahlekelwe sonke siyi-City of Johannesburg. Angiwukhalele kakhulu ke umndeni wakwaMathe. Ngicabanga ukuthi balahlekelwe ubaba obebheke ikhaya, ebenithembele kuye njengomndeni. Impilo izoshintsha.emotive

00:53:31isiZuluKodwa njenge-IFP sithi akuphelile. UNkulunkulu sifisa abe nani iqhubeke impilo iye phambili. Ngifisa ukukhalela kakhulu umphakathi wase-Ward 24 ngokudlula komholi. Ibuhlungu ke lento ikutshela ukuthi uma kuzohamba abaholi abahola umphakathi, umphakathi wethuemotive

00:54:01isiZuluuphephe kangakanani? Ikutshela lento ukuthi njengabaholi kwi-City of Johannesburg asiphephile. Uyabona ukube uKhansela uMathe ugulile, sahamba sambona esibhedlela, mhlawumbe izinhliziyo zethu ngabe zinakho ukuphumula. Kodwa sizwe sesizwa ngegama elikhulu nje lokuthi akasekho emhlabeni, and indlela ahambe ngayo makukuthi bekuyintando kaNkulunkuluemotive

00:54:31isiZuluangifisi ukuyivuma mayenzeke ngaloluhlobo. Sengihlala phansi, ngifisa ukunishiya nalamazwi atholakala kumaHubo 34 verse 18, afundeka kanje. UJehova useduze nalabo abanezinhliziyo eziphukileyo, uyabasindisa abanomoya odabukileyo. Sithi dudu emndenini wakwaMathe. UNkulunkulu sifisa abe nani. Ngiyabonga kakhulu, Speaker.emotive

00:55:06isiZuluSiyabonga, Councillor Mkhize.

Condolences: PA

00:55:08PA, Councillor Mokwena.

00:55:38Uh greetings, Madam Speaker. Greetings to the Mathe's family. Um Executive Mayor in his absentia, Chief Whip of Council in his absentia, uh PA Joburg 9 councillors under the capable leadership of our caucus leader MMC Kenny Kunene, fellow councillors.claim

00:56:08It is sad that as councillors, we are not safe from the very same community we are fighting for, from the same people who have chosen us. But I dare you, ours is to persist and serve. Those we love don't go away.emotive

00:56:38They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved and missed. A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again. On behalf of the Patriotic Alliance, it is with a heavy heart that we extend our deepestemotive

00:57:10condolences to you and all those who are affected by the passing of Councillor Zakes Ephraim Mathe. His contributions and dedication to the community will never be forgotten. May his legacy continue to inspire us all to serve with passion and commitment, just as he did. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times.emotive

00:57:40Rest in peace, Councillor Ephraim Mathe.emotive

00:57:43isiXhosaSithi lala ngoxolo.emotive

00:57:44Thank you.

Condolences: PAC (MMC Nkokou)

00:57:48Thank you, Councillor Mokwena. PAC, MMC Nkokou. MMC, you have 3 minutes.

00:58:12SesothoUh, e re ke go leboge, wena Modulasetulo wa Lekgotla, Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu.

00:58:24Uh, Honourable Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, Honourable Chief Whip of the Council, Councillor Sthembele Zungu, Honourable Chair of Chairs, Councillor Adolf Marema, all Honourable Section 79 chairpersons, fellow councillors from all political parties, municipal management and staff,

00:58:55leaders of various community organizations, most importantly, the bereaved family of our dear departed Councillor Z. Mathe. I stand before you today with a heavy heart on behalf of Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, PAC, to express our deepest condolences on the passing of our beloved brother,emotive

00:59:28leader, and servant of the people, Councillor Z. Mathe. Death is never easy, especially when it takes away those who have dedicated their lives to serving the people. Councillor Mathe was not just a councillor. He was a warrior for his community, a man who understood that leadership isemotive

01:00:00Not about status, but about service. His commitment to the people of Johannesburg, his tireless work in council, his determination to uplift the most vulnerable will never be forgotten. As Pan-Africanists, we believe in interconnectedness of humanity. Ubuntu.emotive

01:00:25isiZuluUmuntu ngumuntu ngabantu.emotive

01:00:29Our existence is tied to one another. Councillor Mathe reflected this philosophy. He embodied Ubuntu in his leadership, ensuring that the voice of the people were heard and that governance remain about justice, fairness, dignity for all. His work in council will remain as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the cause of the people.emotive

01:01:01To his family, we know that no words can take away the pain of losing a loved one, but today we want you to know that you are not alone. We mourn with you. We grieve with you. We honour the life of Councillor Z Mathe alongside you. He was not just your loved ones. He was our comrade,emotive

01:01:29our brother, our leader. His impact will continue to live on the lives he has touched and legacy he leaves behind. Councillor Mathe believed in a better society, in justice, and in dignity for all. As we lay him to rest, let us not only grieve his departure, but honour his memory by continuing the work he dedicated his life to,emotive

01:01:58the work of serving our people with integrity, compassion, and determination. To all councillors and leaders present here today, let us take this moment as a reminder that we are here not for ourselves, but for the people. Political differences should never cloud the common mission we all share, to uplift and serve those who depend on us. To the bereaved family, you may find comfort in knowing that your lovedemotive

01:02:30one was a man of a purpose. His legacy will not fade for he has planted the seed of hope and service in the city.emotive

01:02:40isiZuluHamba kahle,emotive

01:02:41Z Mathe. Your spirit lives on our struggle for justice, dignity, and betterment of our people. May his soul rest in eternal peace.emotive

01:02:51isiZuluIzwe lethu, mayibuye i-Afrika!emotive

Condolences: UDM

01:02:57Thank you, MMC. UDM, Councillor Zigebe, you have 3 minutes.

01:03:09I have since made peace with that, Speaker. Honourable Speaker, the Executive Mayor in absentia, Chair of Chairs, the Chief Whip in absentia, members of the executive, Section 79 Committee Chairs, distinguished guests and the bereaved family of Councillor Zakhele Mathe. Madam Speaker, we gather here at this august house not just in mourning,

01:03:35but in deep sorrow and reflection. The tragic and violent passing of Councillor Zakes Mathe has left a wound that words alone cannot heal. A life dedicated to service has been cut short. A voice of the people has been silenced. A family robbed of a husband, robbed of a father, a son, a brother, and a pillar of strength. To the family of Councillor Mathe, we cannot begin to comprehend the depth of your pain. No words can even make sense of this cruel injustice,emotive

01:04:05nor can they fill the emptiness left by his absence. But know this, you do not grieve alone. We grieve with you. We share in your sorrow. We stand beside you in your darkest hour, offering not just our condolences, but our unwavering support. May you find comfort in the knowledge that Councillor Zakes Mathe was a man of principle, a warrior of justice, and a beacon of hope for so many. His legacy will not be forgotten. To his colleagues and comrades in the ANC,emotive

01:04:36let us not allow his death to become just another statistic. Let us not allow his memory to fade into the archives of unfulfilled promises. Instead, let it ignite in us an unwavering determination to demand better. Councillor Mathe's passing is not just a loss to his loved ones, it is a loss to our democracy. How many more councillors must fall before we act? How many more families must suffer before we acknowledge that those who serve on the front lines of community struggles are in danger?emotive

01:05:06Today, we do not just mourn. We must also raise our voices in unison and say enough is enough. We must act decisively to ensure that public representatives, especially councillors who serve at the closest link between government and the people, are protected. The killings must end. The culture of fear must be broken. The promise of democracy means nothing if those who uphold it are forced to do so under threat, in fear, and at the cost of their lives. How many councillors must fall becauseemotive

01:05:36we are refusing to protecting them as they serve in the front lines? When we fight against protection of these councillors here in this chamber, especially ward councillors, we have failed democracy in all in the name of we've failed democracy all in the name of political expediency and cheap political playing into the gallery. When it's your turn, who will fight for you when you earnestly fought against the protection of others?emotive

01:06:07Madam Speaker, we have laid Councillor Zakes Mathe to rest. Let us commit ourselves to honouring his legacy, not just in words, but in action. Let his sacrifice not be in vain. Let his dreams for his community not die with him. Let us fight not just for justice in his name, but for a future where no family has to endure the same heartbreak. To his loved ones, we pray that in timeemotive

01:06:33isiXhosauQamata umfihlakalo yezuluemotive

01:06:35will ease your pain and your hearts will find solace in the impact he made. May his kindness, his courage, and his unwavering commitment to justice be the light that guides you forward. May his soul rest in eternal peace. May his legacy endure, and may we who are left behind find the strength to ensure that his fight was not in vain. I thank you.emotive

Speaker's closing remarks and removal of the late councillor's name

01:07:03Thank you to all the political parties for their message of condolences to the bereaved family. Councillors, I'm going to ask for complete silence. On behalf of the City of Johannesburg, we continue to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family. We understand how difficult this time must be for you as you grieve the loss of your beloved son, brother,

01:07:32husband, father, and uncle. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Fellow councillors, family, and friends, the City of Johannesburg council continues to wish the Mathe, Sibisi, and Nhlabathi families peace to bring comfort, courage to continue to face the days ahead, and loving memories to forever hold in their hearts.

01:08:05Even though words will not be enough to wipe away your tears and hugs may not ease the pain, but hold on into your memories because forever they will remain. The pain passes, but the beauty remains. On November 5, 2021, late Councillor Zakhele Ephraim Mathe was inaugurated to serve in this council.

01:08:33After he was sworn in, he was allocated that seat, and his name and photo were displayed digitally every time he attended council meetings. He was a councillor for Ward 24 who served in various oversight committees, and in the main, Development Planning and Urban Management Committee. On the 17th of February 2025,

01:09:03Councillor Zakhele Mathe passed away, and his funeral was held on the 23rd of February 2025. Today, the council flag with the coat of arms is placed on his seat, and his name is being represented by the pillar candle and the flowers, symbolising that

01:09:31he will never attend council meetings anymore. We honoured him, and tributes were made by all different political parties that are represented in council. This special council meeting is also being held to officially remove his name in this chamber, a protocol ritual known as

01:09:54isiZuluukusula igama.

01:09:58Sad as this is for all of us, this is the reality, councillors, that we all have to accept. Officials, we may proceed to blow out the candle on the seat.

Songs and tribute

01:12:30isiZuluUma lishona ilanga lishona nezinhlupheko. Uma lishona ilanga lishona nezinhlupheko. Uma lishona ilanga lishona nezinhlupheko.

01:12:51isiZuluUma lishona ilanga lishona nezinhlupheko. Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo!

01:13:20isiZuluYebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Uze usale kahle ubab' uMathe. Uze usale kahle ubab' uMathe. Uze usale kahle ubab' uMathe.

01:13:50isiZuluUze usale kahle ubab' uMathe. Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo!

01:14:20isiZuluYebo, yebo, yebo, yebo, yebo! Uze usale kahle ubab' uMathe. Uze usale kahle ubab' uMathe.

01:14:40isiZuluComrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona.

01:15:10isiZuluEkhathini ezayo sawubona. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula.

01:15:43isiZuluEkhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula.

01:16:10isiZuluComrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Mashaba awulale ngokuthula.

01:16:41isiZuluComrade Mashaba awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Ekhathini ezayo sawubona. Comrade Zakes awulale ngokuthula.

01:17:17isiZulu[inaudible] Thuma abantu bakhulume ngathi.

01:17:38isiZuluAwu thuma abantu bakhulume ngathi. Thuma abantu bakhulume ngathi. Thuma abantu bakhulume ngathi. Thuma abantu bakhulume ngathi.

01:18:01isiZuluThuma abantu bakhulume ngathi! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala!

01:18:33isiZuluHlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala!

01:18:55isiZuluHlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Hlala, hlala, hlala! Bulawa abafana bomkhonto ngenxa yombuso. Ngenxa yombuso.

01:19:27isiZuluThenga izibhamu. Bayabulawa abafana bomkhonto. Ngenxa yombuso. Thenga izibhamu. Hlalani phansi nina anazi lutho. Hlalani phansi nina anazi lutho. Hlalani phansi nina anazi lutho.

01:20:01isiZuluHlalani phansi nina anazi lutho. Bayabulawa abafana bomkhonto. Ngenxa yombuso. Thenga izibhamu. Bayabulawa abafana bomkhonto. Ngenxa yombuso. Thenga izibhamu.

Comments by family representative

01:20:55We now proceed with comments by the family representatives. Mr Scebiso Masondo.

01:21:36isiZuluIgama likaJesu malibongwe. Igama likaJesu malibongwe. Igama likaJesu malibongwe. [inaudible]

01:23:25isiZuluIgama likaJesu malibongwe. Igama likaJesu malibongwe. Igama likaJesu malibongwe.

01:24:13Thank you very much, Speaker, the Executive Mayor, and all the MMCs. We also greeting all the GNU partners. I'm Scebiso Masondo representing Mathe, Sibisi, and the Nhlabathi family. We want to thank everyone

01:24:44who from day one came to the family. Deputy Chief Whip, the Chief Whip, we've been with them from the scene. We want to thank everyone. Councillor Zakes was my uncle.

01:25:14He comes after my mother. Indeed, my uncle saw this coming. We've tried to stop this from 2017 when we were aware that they are following Zakes.

01:25:47In 2018, they came to the house where Zakes had the family, all of us in the house with his children. They shot 200 and something times wanting his life.

01:26:16It never ended there. 2019, they hijacked his wife. They shot at the gate thinking it's him. They took the car with his wife and his kids. They left them

01:26:46in some bushes there. They had to walk to the house. In 2021, just after he became a councillor, they shot him 12 times in the car.

01:27:14This incident happened while he was a councillor. And this incident was reported in council. And the council didn't do anything to protect us. There are many incidents happened after 2021. Zakes was shot near his house

01:27:4912 times in his car again approaching his house near the police station. The council did what? Nothing. The last incident in 2023 where he even decided to sell the car he was going with,

01:28:20they shot him in the garage. He sold the car and he bought the car that they shot him at. Council did what? They gave him Metro Police vans to escort him for 3 days. I'm not sure who determined that he is now safe.

01:28:49The Metro Police just left, and Zakes continued to pay bodyguards with his salary that he's getting from this house. Zakes spent his money to pay bodyguards to make sure that they protect him, while it was the responsibility of this same house to protect him.

01:29:21We not going to say he was supposed to be given cars and bodyguards, but after a first incident reported, the city was supposed to do something about his life. Zakes called me on Sunday and he told me to say,

01:29:51isiZulumshana,

01:29:54I'm tired of running now. Zakes never enjoyed his

01:30:00Council. They were attacking him in meetings, in public meetings. Where he was supposed to be given police to make sure that those meetings are safe. He would call people to come and protect him in the meeting of the community. He called me and say I'm tired of running.

01:30:31It was Sunday around 12:00 late. I'm tired of running. What I want I'll call the Chief Whip to tell him that I'm tired of this. We called the Chief Whip together that night and the Chief Whip advised that Zakes, if you feel

01:31:00your life is in danger, I'll get someone who will look after your ward. Just disappear. Uh disappearing, we knew that won't save his life, because these people when even it's December, they came to our home in KZN.

01:31:31There is an incident that happened in KZN. So, they followed him everywhere he goes. When he left Freedom Park to buy a house in Mondeor, it was not his wish to leave his people, but he was forced to get a place that have cameras so that he can be safe, but there are three incidents that happened in his house, the new house.

01:32:03So, I will challenge the City of Johannesburg to protect their councillors. Uh in honouring Zakes, we are saying to the City of Johannesburg this must stop. Councillors should be protected,

01:32:29because people feel that when you're a councillor, you have all the keys to their wealth or whatever. So, we're just saying protect them. We know they're going to die, all of them, but just protect them. As the family, we Zakes in Valentine's Day, this year, uh he was supposed to be with uMama Sneh,

01:33:00giving ama-flowers or other things, but he chose to be with the community of Motsoaledi. He celebrated his Valentine's Day with the community of Motsoaledi to make sure that all the necessary people that must make sure that Motsoaledi is developed are there. Uh I will request the MMC of Housing uh to honour Zakes legacy

01:33:31or life by making sure that the houses of the community of Motsoaledi are built. Because that's what Zakes was fighting for, to make sure that Motsoaledi is developed. So, I will I will request that that happen. Maybe where he's slept he will be resting seeing that Motsoaledi community has changed.

01:34:00We want to thank everyone, in closing, that came to the family, assisted in the funeral and organised this session. The Mathe family, Nhlabathi family, Sibisi family loves you all. Thank you very much.

Announcements and closure

01:35:53Uh we are now on the announcement and closure.

01:36:01isiZuluSiyabonga family kaMathe, kaNhlabathi nekaSibisi. Bhuti Masondo, sikuzwile ukhiphe inhliziyo yakho into ehleli ngaphakathi kwayo. Sinani kulesi sikhathi lesi ngale nto eyenzekile and sikhuluma phambi kwenu ukuthi yes siyavuma okuningi kufanele kwenziwe ukuthi ama-councillors ethu abe-protected. Baphakamisa isandla ukuthi bazo-server ama-resident, it cannot be right that ama-resident namhlanje yiwona aya ngaphandle ayofuna abantu

01:36:31isiZuluukuthi ababulale. Sikuzwile lapho.

01:36:34Councillors, we know that we ran out of time. It's 10:37. A lot of our councillors signed the register for the memorial service for the late Councillor Mathe. We are going to give everyone 15 minutes to go sign the register for the ordinary council sitting, but before we close, please remember we have to wait, remain seated, for the family to leave Council. Then after that, you can go sign the register. Thank you.

01:41:36Ah yes.