Wednesday, 26 March 2025 · 8 h 44 min · 3 videos · 2021–2026 council
29th Ordinary Council Meeting, Day 1
AI draft.Written by AI from the livestream and not yet checked by a person. Use the timestamps to check anything before you quote it.
- Governance and appointments
- Budget and finances
- Services, housing and development
- Other business (no topic tag)
- Procedure: roll call, apologies, breaks
- Decision (18)
- ◯Quorum count (2)
- ‖Adjourned or paused (2)
Chapters, decisions and procedure are AI drafts from the livestream; topic tags are AI judgments (a chapter with several shows its strongest). Services, housing and development covers water, electricity, roads, housing, waste, safety, health, planning and community facilities.
Summary
Council approved recommendations 1 to 6 of the City Manager appointment report as printed, with the DA's objection noted. 04:42:52 04:51:34 A DA amendment to add Cllr Echeozonjoku to the recruitment panel fell by show of hands, with 66 in favour, 136 against and 9 abstentions. 04:32:10 04:42:52
Council also approved the 2023-24 Group Annual Report and MPAC oversight report, and quarterly performance reports including Community Development, Economic Development, City Power, Joburg Water, Pikitup, Human Settlements and Public Safety. 01:02:12 02:03:41 02:47:34 03:51:34 05:07:17 05:56:56 06:05:50 07:25:02 08:26:33 The Red Fleet contract amendment for fire engines and emergency vehicles was debated, with the DA opposing and the ANC supporting, but no vote on it is recorded. 04:51:34 04:54:57
The Speaker directed DA Cllr Schay to withdraw the terms 'grasshoppers' and 'creatures', which he did, and told Cllr Raphadu to formalise his request to refer Cllr Schay to ethics. 02:18:58 02:28:52 After Cllr Christians raised a point of order over member in charge Cllr Mhlongo's remarks about Cllr Schay, the Speaker ruled the direction of the exchange out of order. 03:51:34
MMC Tshwaku promised to decentralise by-law enforcement and meet COGTA next week, while MMC Mabaso promised a contractor at Dube Hostel for sewer infrastructure by Friday. 06:05:50 07:25:02
Quorum was confirmed with 152 councillors at the opening and 142 at a late head count requested by Cllr De Lange; the record ends part-way through a DA speech on Health. 00:01:14 08:30:11 08:40:13
AI draft from the record of this sitting (Claude Opus 5.5), checked against the chapters; every sentence links to the moment. Report an error
This week in council: City Manager report approved; Doornkop motion fails 36 for, 142 against
In brief
- 18 decisions: 10 approved, 5 noted or other, 2 deferred or withdrawn, 1 rejected.
- 11 promises on record, including: The Speaker will add Cllr De Lange to the speakers list for item 78.
- 2 quorum counts.
- 26 apologies read out. MMC or Mayor not present for their business: 4; Sound or equipment problem: 15; Warned or stopped by the chair: 14; Not present when called: 1.
Chapters
54What was discussed, in order. Click a time to watch.
- 00:01:14
Opening of the 29th Ordinary Council meeting and quorum check
The Speaker opened the meeting after a moment of silence and the Secretary to Council read the notice. She allowed 10 minutes for legal to verify attendance and councillors were asked to sign the register. After the break the Speaker announced 152 councillors present, which meant a quorum.
Report an error - 00:21:03
Applications for leave of absence
The Speaker received an apology from Cllr Mokoena. Caucus representatives from ActionSA, DA, ANC, IFP, PA, UDM, Al Jama-ah and EFF tabled apologies, late arrivals and early departures. Several said they would send consolidated lists to the Speaker's office. The Speaker confirmed 152 signed the register and the apologies were noted.
Avant-SmithMaremaANCMakhubaIFPSimonsePAZigebeUDMAmadAl Jama-ahMogapiEFFMashalaActionSAMthembuActionSA
Report an error - 00:25:49
Official notices: birthdays, new Ward 59 councillor, rates help desk
The Speaker wished councillors with March birthdays well and welcomed new ANC Ward 59 councillor Sthembiso Fortune Hlatshwayo. She also announced a Finance and Revenue help desk near the chamber for councillors' rates and taxes accounts, and reminded councillors to keep their accounts up to date.
MthembuActionSAHlatshwayoANC
Also discussed: Official notices: birthdays and new councillors (28 August 2025)
Report an error - 00:27:21
Statement by the Executive Mayor
The Executive Mayor spoke after Human Rights Day and the Sharpeville commemoration, reaffirmed support for Palestinian self-determination, and welcomed the new Ward 59 councillor.
Report an error - 00:28:45
Confirmation of minutes
Council considered the minutes of the 6th Special Council (27 Feb 2025), the 28th Ordinary Council (27 Feb 2025) and the 36th Extraordinary Council (13 March 2025). The FF Plus had no corrections. The ANC asked for one spelling correction to Cllr Mabelebele's surname on page 19 of the 13 March minutes. The minutes were confirmed as amended.
SmitFF+MazibukoANCMthembuActionSA
Report an error - 00:30:31
Questions for written reply and tabling of Executive and Legislature items
The Executive Mayor said the written replies were loaded on the drive and tabled the Executive reports. The Chair of Chairs tabled the Legislature items and praised Section 79 chairpersons for reports now arriving on time. Cllr Santana rose on a point of order, saying Section 71 reports were still late. Cllr De Lange asked to be added to the speakers list for item 78.
MoreroANCMaremaANCSantanaDADe LangeFF+MthembuActionSA
Report an error - 00:36:24
Items 1 and 2: 2023-24 Annual Report and MPAC oversight report (opposition and smaller parties)
Cllr Buthelezi tabled the MPAC oversight report on the 2023-24 annual report in place of an ill colleague. DA, EFF, ActionSA, ACDP and FF Plus speakers criticised UIFW expenditure, water and electricity losses, weak consequence management and cash and debt levels. The ACDP praised the clean audits at Joburg City Theatres and the Joburg Market.
ButheleziANCWaxDASeeraneEFFMkhonzaACDPPelzerFF+1 unidentified
Report an error - 01:02:12
Items 1 and 2: ANC, DA, EFF responses, MMC Finance and close
An ANC speaker said the report showed improvement under the GLU. DA Cllr Suddaby noted R13.3 billion of UIFW and approved the report with serious reservations. EFF Cllr Radebe approved with strong reservations. ANC Cllr Mmbengwa called for consequence management and an end to blame games. MMC Arnolds said the city had made strides and the new disciplinary board would help. The member in charge asked Council to approve and the items were agreed.
SuddabyDARadebeEFFMmbengwaANCArnoldsAICButheleziANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 01:24:51
Items 3-6: Community Development performance reports - tabling
The Secretary read items 3 to 6, covering the Community Development Department, Joburg City Parks and Zoo, Joburg City Theatres and the Section 79 oversight report for October to December 2024. Cllr Mokome tabled them, describing mid-term performance as satisfactory but flagging slow repairs and maintenance. He said City Parks and Zoo met almost all targets and City Theatres met all of theirs.
Report an error - 01:28:49
Items 3-6: debate by DA, GOOD, FF Plus, PA, ActionSA and DA
Speakers criticised facility maintenance, closed pools and libraries, doubts about reported statistics, and the state of the Johannesburg Art Gallery and cemeteries. GOOD cited low revenue collection and capital spending. ActionSA raised revenue reporting and marketing of facilities. The DA flagged the City Parks and Zoo visitor shortfall. The FF Plus congratulated Joburg Theatres on a clean audit.
MazibukoDACookGOODSmitFF+SimonsePAMasogaActionSASifumbaDA
Also discussed: Items 1-4 debate: DA and EFF (29 September 2025) · Budget debate: COPE (Mokome) on sport, arts and culture (29 May 2025)
Report an error - 01:49:23
Items 3-6: EFF and ANC speakers, point of order on ClearVu remarks
An EFF councillor speaking on behalf of Cllr Dladla praised the MMC for Public Safety and urged more security at facilities. ANC Cllr Mashinini acknowledged reporting inconsistencies and called for protection of facilities. Cllr Masoga rose on a point of order to clarify he had not accused anyone of stealing the ClearVu fence, and the Speaker ruled he could not respond.
MashininiANCMasogaActionSAMthembuActionSA1 unidentified
Also discussed: Item 60: MMC Kunene and points of order (27 February 2025)
Report an error - 01:58:27
Items 3-6: MMC Community Development response
MMC Nkokou thanked councillors for constructive criticism and spoke about liberation and mental decolonisation. He asked Council to approve all the reports.
Report an error - 02:02:20
Dispute over Cllr Mazibuko's point of order after MMC closed
Cllr Mazibuko said he had raised his hand before the MMC finished and wanted to speak on a point of order. The Speaker ruled the MMC had closed his debate and no response would be taken. She told Cllr Mazibuko to write to her office if unhappy with the ruling.
MazibukoDAMthembuActionSA
Report an error - 02:03:41
Items 3-6: member in charge closes and items agreed
Cllr Mokome responded to speakers, acknowledging vandalism of public facilities and noting the Johannesburg City Library had partially opened. He said the Johannesburg Art Gallery was on the radar and thanked City Theatres for a good audit. He moved that the reports be approved and the Speaker found the items agreed.
Report an error - 02:09:57
Items 7-9: Development Planning and JDA reports - tabling and first speakers
An acting member in charge, standing in for Cllr Kaldine, tabled the second-quarter reports. The department met 10 of 15 KPIs and the JDA 13 of 14, with concerns about funding, staffing and contractor and payment delays. The IFP raised absent officials at committee meetings, late payments to service providers and unpaid JDA invoices. ActionSA noted the reports with concern about delays in obtaining house plans.
MakhubaIFPNefdtActionSA1 unidentified
Report an error - 02:18:58
Items 7-9: DA Cllr Schay's speech and 'grasshoppers' withdrawal
Cllr Schay criticised JDA project delays, building law enforcement and unresponsive officials, using The Ant and the Grasshopper as an analogy. Cllr Ngwenya objected to the grasshopper reference and the Speaker, on legal advice, directed Cllr Schay to withdraw it, which he did so that he could continue.
SchayDANgwenyaMthembuActionSA
Report an error - 02:24:31
Cllr Raphadu questions Cllr Schay's insignia
Cllr Raphadu asked for a ruling on whether Cllr Schay could wear an Israeli insignia in Council, noting Cllr Mashinini's scarf. The Speaker said both matters were subject to formal complaints being handled with legal and would not be tabled in Council. Cllr Mosehla objected to Cllr Schay responding to the point of order, and the Speaker replied that tolerance applied equally.
RaphaduANCMosehlaEFFMthembuActionSA
Report an error - 02:28:52
'Creatures' remark, rulings, alleged threat and ethics referral request
After Cllr Schay ended by referring to a 'swarm of creatures', EFF and ANC members objected, and MMCs Masuku and Tshwaku made heated remarks. The Speaker ruled that Cllr Schay must withdraw, and he withdrew the term creatures. DA councillors then asked for protection over what they said was an MMC threat to meet them outside. Cllr Raphadu asked that Cllr Schay be referred to ethics, and the Speaker told him to formalise it.
MasukuANCTshwakuEFFMazibukoDASchayDARahnDAMoepiEFFRaphaduANCEcheozonjokuDAMthembuActionSA1 unidentified
Report an error - 02:39:43
Items 7-9: EFF and ANC contributions
EFF Cllr Mosehla criticised the Development Planning Department and JDA over statistics, underspending and late payment of SMMEs, and called for specific interventions. ANC Cllr Maswazi praised the JDA's turnaround and the MMC's oversight but said unpaid invoices must be corrected, and asked that the report be noted.
Report an error - 02:47:34
Item 8 (JDA Q2): MMC response, member in charge and adoption
MMC Mgcina asked that Item 8 be corrected to show the JDA's Quarter 2 report, not Quarter 1. She responded to points raised on stoppages of projects, municipal courts, office space and non-attendance of officials. Member in charge Cllr Mosehla asked council to note and approve the report, and the Speaker noted the Quarter 1 to Quarter 2 correction and put the recommendations to the house.
Report an error - 02:55:53
Items 10-14 introduced: Economic Development performance reports and oversight report
The Secretary to Council read Items 10 to 14 together: performance assessment reports for Economic Development, Johannesburg Tourism Company, Johannesburg Property Company and Joburg Market (October to December 2024), plus the Section 79 oversight report. Member in charge Cllr Mhlongo tabled the items, after congratulating Bafana Bafana on their wins over Lesotho and Benin.
Also discussed: Items 27–31: Economic Development department and entities performance reports (31 July 2025) · Items 1, 2 and 3: Development Planning and JDA Q3 performance and oversight reports (22 July 2026)
Report an error - 02:58:55
DA on Economic Development: SMME training, Alexandra Automotive Hub, spaza shops
The DA's Cllr Nkomo said the department's training programmes do not match Johannesburg's dominant economic sectors, with unemployment at 32.2%. He said learnerships pay late or not at all, and that the R34 million Alexandra Automotive Hub is stalled over the lack of an anchor tenant, structural defects and insufficient space. He also said there was no update on spaza shop regulation.
Report an error - 03:02:51
UDM and FF Plus on Economic Development and JPC
The UDM's Cllr Zigebe congratulated a spiritual home on its 16th anniversary. He welcomed Joburg Market's R5.9 billion turnover and the Tourism Company's 100% KPI achievement, and proposed simpler supply chain processes and a better informal trading permit system. The FF Plus's Cllr De Lange cited investment attracted of R1.6 billion against a 19.6 billion target and internal audit resolution at 10%. He listed JPC shortfalls, including zero progress on Metro Centre, and asked about the missing report on the acting City Manager's appointment.
Also discussed: ActionSA, EFF and ANC on Economic Development cluster (22 July 2026) · FF+ (Cllr De Lange) on Economic Development and JPC (29 September 2025) · Items 27–31: Economic Development department and entities performance reports (31 July 2025)
Report an error - 03:10:18
UIM on Eldorado Park exclusion; dispute over recording in the gallery
The UIM's Cllr Abdool spoke on Item 12 about Eldorado Park's exclusion from housing and economic opportunities, including Southern Farms. While he spoke, Cllr Pitso complained that someone was recording in the gallery, and Cllr Echeozonjoku questioned this since the sitting is live-streamed. The chair said protocol briefs guests on cell phone use, and Cllr Abdool continued and finished.
AbdoolUIMPitsoPAEcheozonjokuDA
Report an error - 03:14:49
GOOD, ACDP and PA on Economic Development
The GOOD party's Cllr Cook criticised the lack of a central economic database, vacancies for statisticians and data analysts, and the absence of an integrated growth strategy. The ACDP's Cllr Mkhonza objected to copy-and-paste reporting, asked why only 45 of 1,250 informal trading permits were issued, and asked why repairs and maintenance spend was 0%. The PA's Cllr Wilskut noted the report and raised undocumented foreign nationals and councillor safety.
Also discussed: DA (Cllr Kgeletsane) on Economic Development (29 September 2025)
Report an error - 03:24:01
DA and ActionSA on JPC and Metro Centre; point about animal references
The DA's Cllr Reddy said JPC missed over 50% of its KPIs, spent no CAPEX, and asked about R50 million of staff computer training. He called again for a restructuring plan and turnaround strategy. ActionSA's Cllr Mohlala praised Joburg Market, said JPC needs intervention, and asked for a way forward on the Metro Centre, which has been closed since September 2023. Cllr Rahn objected to calling JPC 'the elephant in the room', and the chair ruled JPC is not a person and let the speaker continue.
Also discussed: DA (Cllr Reddy) on Johannesburg Property Company (29 September 2025) · Debate on property items: Metro Centre redevelopment feasibility study (item 78) (27 March 2025)
Report an error - 03:30:55
DA Cllr Louw on the Metro Centre and fragmentation of the administration
The speaking time was corrected to 6 minutes because the DA's speaker list had dropped from four to three speakers. Cllr Louw said the Metro Centre situation reflects mismanagement in the City. He said the decanting of staff has fragmented the administration and confused residents, and he suggested those responsible be held liable and charged.
Report an error - 03:34:55
EFF and ANC on Economic Development entities
The EFF's Cllr Telekoa urged localised funding for township businesses, praised Joburg Market, and proposed a tourism forum, cultural and township tourism, and a separate maintenance department for JPC. The ANC's Cllr Bolani called for investment in township and inner-city revitalisation, asked JTC to fill vacancies and fix its web analytics, and asked JPC for a transformation strategy on outdoor advertising. He credited the GNU and MMC Mnisi for improvements.
Report an error - 03:46:24
MMC Masuku responds on behalf of Economic Development
MMC Masuku represented the absent MMC Mnisi. She noted the inputs on vacancies, the sources behind the economic growth strategy, localised funding and tourism, and said the Metro Centre will be dealt with in a later report. She said the JPC board has a fiduciary mandate and that officials who refuse to account to Section 79 committees can be written to. She asked council to note the quarterly report.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 03:51:34
Member in charge wrap-up, point of order, adjournment for lunch
Member in charge Cllr Mhlongo thanked the committee and said JPC is a problematic child that the executive must look at. His remarks about Cllr Schay and a certain race having refugee status elsewhere drew a point of order from Cllr Christians. He said the member in charge had not spoken through the chair and had spoken about a councillor who was not speaking. The Speaker ruled the direction out of order, read out the recommendations for Items 10 to 14, and adjourned for lunch until 15:00.
Report an error - 04:02:10
State of the City-style address (speaker not identified in transcript)
The recording picks up with a speaker presenting an assessment of the past year on the Government of Local Unity's priorities. Topics covered are financial sustainability, basic services from City Power, Joburg Water, Pikitup and JRA, public safety and by-law enforcement, and housing and health. The speaker is not identified in the transcript and the segment is cut off mid-sentence.
1 unidentified
Report an error - 04:32:10
City Manager appointment report: IFP, DA amendment proposal and ANC MMC
Cllr Manganyi supported the report and thanked the Executive Mayor for appointing an acting city manager. The DA's Cllr Da Rocha called the previous appointment irregular, illegal and invalid, and proposed amending recommendation 5 to add Cllr Belinda Echeozonjoku to the recruitment panel. MMC Mgcina said the DA was destabilising the municipality, that Dr Brink could apply again, and that the mayor holds the prerogative on the panel.
ManganyiIFPDa RochaDAMgcinaANC
Also discussed: Debate: ATM and ActionSA (17 January 2025)
Report an error - 04:38:34
Point of clarity on who appoints the selection panel
An unnamed councillor rose on Rule 73C, saying the Local Government Regulations on senior managers require the municipal council, not the mayor, to appoint the selection panel. The chair replied that the mayor had brought the names to council and that recommendation 5 has council approving the panel. She said the DA's proposed amendment would be dealt with after the Executive Mayor's wrap-up.
1 unidentified
Report an error - 04:40:57
Executive Mayor's wrap-up on the City Manager report
The Executive Mayor thanked the parties that debated the item. He said the report was tabled for stability and to resolve an impasse rather than appeal to the Constitutional Court. He described Dr Brink as a capable administrator and asked council to process the recommendations, including the DA's proposed amendment.
Report an error - 04:42:52
Vote on DA amendment to recommendation 5 and approval of the report
The Speaker put the DA's amendment to add Cllr Echeozonjoku to the panel to a vote by show of hands. The count was 66 in favour, 9 abstentions and 136 against, so the amendment fell. Recommendations 1 to 6 were then approved as printed, with the DA's objection noted.
Report an error - 04:51:34
Item 2: Red Fleet contract amendment (MFMA s116(3)) tabled
The MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services tabled the report on amending the Red Fleet Operational Services contract for fire engines and emergency vehicles. She said the contract was expiring, the new tender was at bid evaluation stage, and council was asked to approve an amendment from 1 January 2025, month-to-month for no more than six months. She noted that public participation closed on 6 November 2024 with no objections.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 04:54:57
Red Fleet debate: DA opposes, ANC supports
A DA councillor traced the history of the Red Fleet tender, said the City pays about R10 million a month for aging fire engines, and said the DA would not support another six-month extension caused by poor planning. An ANC councillor said the report complied with legislation including public participation and that the extension ensures emergency vehicles remain available. The transcript has a garbled passage at the end of the debate and no vote on this item is recorded in this part.
2 unidentified
Report an error - 05:07:17
Items 15-19 introduced: Environment and Infrastructure Services and utilities performance reports
After a break, the Secretary to Council read Items 15 to 19: the Quarter 2 performance assessment reports for Environment and Infrastructure Services, City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup, with the Section 79 oversight report. Member in charge Cllr Munyayi tabled the items and relayed a request from Ward 50 residents to formalise their informal settlement and provide services.
Report an error - 05:10:03
DA and PA on environment, vacancies, City Power and illegal dumping
The DA's Cllr Koekemoer described river pollution, unspent waste-sorting money, high vacancy rates and 100% CAPEX underperformance caused by procurement delays. She said the DA notes the report with grave concern. The PA's Cllr Pitso urged filling the department's 56% vacancy rate with local youth, criticised City Power officials for not communicating with councillors, and asked whether Pikitup clean-up campaigns are effective.
Report an error - 05:17:11
FF Plus and ACDP on City Power, Joburg Water and water supply
The FF Plus's Cllr Boer said City Power improved on revenue and losses but meter reading fell to 54%, and asked whether the Eskom dispute was resolved. He said Joburg Water's collection rate is 75% and objected to employment equity targets. The ACDP's Cllr Harris spoke on inconsistent water supply and tankers in wards 68, 69 and 82, R2.151 billion in write-offs, and illegal dumping, and noted the reports.
Also discussed: DA on Joburg Water performance (22 July 2026) · Item 1: Cllr Meyers (DA) on water and electricity (28 May 2026) · DA on Johannesburg Water's third quarter report (30 July 2025)
Report an error - 05:26:41
DA and ActionSA on City Power outages, water outages and Pikitup
The DA's Cllr Steenkamp said residents suffered long outages, and criticised City Power's R14.5 billion overdraft, losses near 30% and use of contractors while internal workers sit idle. ActionSA's Cllr Modukanene noted the reports, listed wards with water and power outages, and suggested boreholes, repairing the Meyer's Hill tower and ring-fencing water revenue. She also suggested reviving the Infrastructure Protection Unit and noted Pikitup's challenges at landfill sites such as Kya Sands.
Devon SteenkampDAModukaneneActionSA
Also discussed: EFF on City Power, Johannesburg Water and Pikitup (30 July 2025) · UDM on Environment and Infrastructure Services and City Power (30 July 2025) · Items 8-12: ActionSA on entity performance reports (30 July 2025)
Report an error - 05:35:45
Procedural dispute over a remark about the Mayor and calls to withdraw
At the start of his speech, the DA's Cllr Bittkau referred to the Mayor as 'JoJo' and then withdrew it. A councillor demanded a withdrawal, Cllr Meyers raised a remark about Cllr Bittkau being an old man, and Cllr Raphadu cited Rule 70 on disrespectful language and urged the chair to caution members. The Speaker confirmed Cllr Bittkau had withdrawn, asked for an end to name-calling, and returned him to the floor with 2 minutes 30 seconds left.
BittkauDAMeyersDARaphaduANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:41:54
DA Cllr Bittkau on Joburg Water
Cllr Bittkau criticised the Mayor's suggestion that residents buy JoJo tanks and called for dissolving the Joburg Water board, which he said has no technical members. He cited the R263 million tanker contract, E. coli levels in rivers of 400,000 to 2.2 million against an accepted 200, and missing reinstatements, with JRA owed R54 million. He called for removing the board and top management.
Report an error - 05:45:10
EFF and ANC on City Power, Joburg Water, Pikitup; MMC Sekwaila called
The EFF's Cllr Mkasi called for insourcing and abolishing tenders, welcomed City Power's forensic investigation and surplus, and urged Pikitup to insource contract workers. The ANC's Cllr Madiba welcomed new Ward 53 and Ward 59 councillors and urged recovery of debts owed to the City and permanent servicing of informal settlements. He asked City Parks, Public Safety and unions to help on illegal dumping and workers' conduct. MMC Sekwaila was called to respond, and the recording ends with a microphone problem.
Also discussed: EFF on City Power, Johannesburg Water and Pikitup (30 July 2025) · Item 85: updated shareholder compacts of City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup (24 June 2026)
Report an error - 05:56:56
MMC reply and member in charge close on items 15 to 19
An MMC answered councillors' points on river pollution, vacancies, illegal dumping, City Power, water outages and the Kya Sands landfill. The MMC said Pikitup would close the Kya Sands site and that solar power would be rolled out in informal settlements. The member in charge then asked council to note the report, and the items were agreed.
MunyayiActionSA1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:05:50
Items 20-22: Human Settlements, JOSHCO and Section 79 oversight reports
The Speaker tabled items 20, 21 and 22, the Human Settlements and JOSHCO quarter-two performance reports and the Section 79 oversight report. Parties commented on JOSHCO's rent collection and deficit, Southern Farms, title deeds, hostel infrastructure and informal settlement services. MMC Mabaso responded and the items were agreed.
MpoloboshoHarrisACDPZigebeUDMAbdoolUIMNgwetsheniActionSALeshiloEFFMalulekaANCMabasoIFP1 unidentified
Also discussed: Items 12-14: Human Settlements, JOSHCO and oversight report (2 December 2025) · ActionSA on Human Settlements and JOSHCO (30 July 2025) · Items 20-22: party debate on housing and JOSHCO (22 July 2026)
Report an error - 06:43:02
Items 23-24: Public Safety performance and oversight reports, debate
Cllr Wissler tabled the Public Safety quarter-two report and the Section 79 oversight report. She noted 18 of 22 KPIs achieved and an overspend of R464 million. Councillors debated the overspend, arrests, CCTV, by-law enforcement, fire services, employment equity and JMPD conditions.
WisslerActionSACookGOODPelzerFF+RohlssenACDPMayPACoutriersActionSAMailaDAMbambalaEFFNairANC
Also discussed: FF Plus on Public Safety KPIs (30 July 2025) · Public Safety debate: PA, ATM, UDM, ActionSA and DA (3 December 2025) · Items 25-26: Public Safety performance (22 July 2026)
Report an error - 07:25:02
Public Safety: MMC Tshwaku's reply and committee close
MMC Tshwaku invited councillors to the inauguration of the new Chief of Police on 3 April. He answered criticism of the report and said ward-based policing would be reviewed and by-law enforcement decentralised. Cllr Wissler said the committee wanted ward-level reporting from JMPD, and items 23 and 24 were agreed.
Report an error - 07:35:11
Items 25-29: Transport, JRA, Metrobus and MTC reports, debate
Items 25 to 29 were read together and tabled by Cllr Ndlela. DA, ANC, UDM, FF+ and ActionSA councillors commented on Rea Vaya 1C delays, JRA capital spending and finances, and Metrobus fleet availability. Cllr Zigebe highlighted Metrobus's cashless revenue gains, and Cllr Boer asked about employment equity at JRA.
NdlelaANCCrichtonDAMaakeANCZigebeUDMKreuschDABoerFF+MokokaActionSA
Also discussed: Items 29-33: Transport cluster, first speakers (2 December 2025) · Items 27-33: Transport, JRA, Metrobus and MTC (22 July 2026) · Items 25 to 34: ACDP, DA and FF+ on JRA and Transport (30 September 2025)
Report an error - 08:00:42
Transport items: Metrobus, MTC and Rea Vaya comments continue
ANC, DA, EFF and ANC speakers commented on Metrobus performance, MTC finances and the Rea Vaya 1C bus refurbishment timeline. Cllr Mavhona said the ANC noted the Metrobus report with concern. The EFF asked for a timeline on the remaining buses. The transcript has a gap after Cllr Supe begins speaking at 08:12:15.
MavhonaANCPietersenDAKomaneEFFSupeANC
Also discussed: Items 29-33: Transport cluster, first speakers (2 December 2025) · Items 25 to 34: PA, ActionSA, DA, IFP and EFF speakers (30 September 2025)
Report an error - 08:26:33
Office of the City Manager: MMC reply and items agreed
An MMC responded on the Office of the City Manager's performance, covering timely payments, legal panel costs and cash-flow constraints. Cllr Magwentshu, the committee chair, asked council to note the report. The items on pages 30.21 and 31.10 to 31.11 were agreed.
MagwentshuATM1 unidentified
Report an error - 08:30:11
Items 32-34 introduced and quorum challenge
The Speaker introduced items 32 to 34 on Health and Social Development. Cllr De Lange asked whether quorum still existed late in the evening. Legal conducted a head count and confirmed 142 councillors, so the meeting proceeded.
Report an error - 08:35:55
Items 32-34 tabled by acting member in charge
The Speaker noted the regular member in charge was absent. An acting member in charge, speaking for the Section 79 chairperson, tabled the Health, Social Development and oversight reports. He asked council to note the reports and the recommendations.
1 unidentified
Report an error - 08:40:13
Health Department report: DA comments
A DA councillor criticised the Health Department's limited budget, shortages of medicine and staff, and the lack of stakeholder engagement. She said the Government of Local Unity does not prioritise health spending. The transcript ends part-way through her speech.
1 unidentified
Also discussed: ActionSA, DA and EFF on Health and Social Development (3 December 2025)
Report an error
Promises
11Commitments with a date, an amount or a 'we will'.
On 5 November 2026 (when this page was built): 4 overdue, 0 due in the next 30 days, 6 with no date. Overdue first; dates are AI readings of what was said; tap or hover a label for how. All promises.
Overdue by 587 daysMlungisi Mabaso · MMC for Human Settlements
Introduce a contractor at Dube Hostel to deal with sewer infrastructure.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
06:40:36· by Friday· Report an error
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote · official record (1)
“On Friday we are introducing a contractor at Dube Hostel.”
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.119: “Dube Hostel Renewal Building Alterations DUBE EXT2 D Ward” · R 6,474,000; R 21,474,000; R 12,000,000 (2026/27 MTREF)Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
Overdue by 582 daysUnidentified councillor
06:03:27· by this coming week· Report an error
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We're also unveiling this coming week”
Overdue by 578 daysTshwaku
Meet COGTA to review the by-law enforcement process.
07:31:58· by next week· Report an error
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we're meeting COGTA next week just to look at the by-law food chain.”
Overdue by 575 daysUnidentified councillor
Go to market for security to secure the Kya Sands landfill site once Pikitup closes it.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
06:03:27· by in a week or two· Report an error
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote · official record (1)
“in a week or two we should be able to go to market”
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.142: “Kya Sands landfill site-improved compliance and alterations” · R -; R -; R 500,000 (2026/27)Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
Date passed; a later sitting said doneTshwaku
Have a director of by-law appointed after the assessments.
07:32:10· by by next week· Report an error
Latest: Said done at a later sitting, 25 June 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“Hopefully by next week, we'll be having a director of bylaw”
- Done, they sayEFF rejects the motion · 25 June 2025
No dateMargaret Nobuhle Mthembu · ActionSA
The Speaker will add Cllr De Lange to the speakers list for item 78.
Latest: Said done at a later sitting, 27 March 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“Item 78, we'll add you to the Speakers list.”
- Done, they sayDebate on property items: Metro Centre redevelopment feasibility study (item 78) · 27 March 2025
No dateEunice Mgcina · MMC for Development Planning
Correct the non-attendance of some officials at committee meetings in future meetings.
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“which we will correct in the future meetings that we will have”
No dateLoyiso Masuku · MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services (by surname)
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“I've also made a note to pass through to the MMC.”
No dateTemba Aubrey Mhlongo · AIC
Ensure the executive notes the concerns raised about JPC's performance.
Not raised again in 31 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“I will make sure that the executive notes the concerns about JPC”
No dateMlungisi Mabaso · MMC for Human Settlements
Bring the Southern Farms beneficiaries report to Council once beneficiaries are identified.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
Latest: Raised again at a later sitting, 8 May 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting · official record (1)
“Once we finalize the identification of beneficiaries, the report will serve in Council.”
- Raised againPA response (MMC Kunene) · 8 May 2025
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.120: “Southern Farms Mega Mixed Development” · R 75,188,000; R 120,000,000; R 120,000,000 (2026/27 MTREF)Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
No dateTshwaku
Decentralise by-law enforcement so it is ward-based rather than centralised.
Latest: Called late or dropped at a later sitting, 30 July 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“on the by-law, we're going to decentralize it.”
- Late or droppedDA on lack of a crime prevention strategy · 30 July 2025 · and 1 more moment that day
Decisions
18What council approved, rejected or put off.
- 00:20:43
Quorum for the 29th Ordinary Council meetingquorum confirmed
The Speaker announced 152 councillors had signed the register, so the meeting continued.
- 00:25:25
Applications for leave of absencenoted
The Speaker asked whether the apologies were noted and moved on.
- 00:30:19
Minutes of the 6th Special (27 Feb 2025), 28th Ordinary (27 Feb 2025) and 36th Extraordinary (13 Mar 2025) Council meetingsapproved
Confirmed as amended, with Cllr Mabelebele's surname corrected on page 19 of the 13 March minutes.
- 00:31:35
Executive and Legislature reports for recommendations to Counciltabled
The Executive Mayor tabled the Executive reports and the Chair of Chairs tabled the Legislature reports.
- 01:24:35
Items 1 and 2: 2023-24 Group Annual Report and MPAC oversight reportapproved
The Speaker found the recommendations on pages 1.5 and 2.28 to 2.32 agreed to.
- 02:09:27
Items 3-6: Community Development, City Parks and Zoo, City Theatres performance reports and Section 79 oversight reportapproved
The Speaker found the recommendations on pages 3.3, 4.23, 5.26 and 6.10 agreed to.
- 02:23:21
Ruling on Cllr Schay's use of 'grasshoppers'withdrawal directed
On legal advice the Speaker required Cllr Schay to withdraw the term and he withdrew it.
- 02:34:50
Ruling on Cllr Schay's reference to a 'swarm of creatures'withdrawn
After the Speaker asked him to withdraw, Cllr Schay withdrew the term creatures and the Speaker closed the matter.
- 02:37:54
Cllr Raphadu's request to refer Cllr Schay to the ethics committeenot taken in Council
The Speaker told Cllr Raphadu to formalise the process through the proper channel.
- 02:55:22
Item 8: JDA performance assessment report (Quarter 2, corrected from Quarter 1 on the agenda)approved
The Speaker noted the Quarter 1 to Quarter 2 correction and asked whether the recommendations on pages 7.7, 8.4 and 9.12 to 9.13 were agreed; the house agreed.
- 03:54:49
Items 10-14: Economic Development, JTC, JPC, Joburg Market performance reports and Section 79 oversight report (Oct-Dec 2024)approved
The Speaker asked whether the recommendations on pages 10.4, 11.14, 12.21, 13.5 and 14.10 to 14.11 were agreed, and the house agreed before the lunch break.
- 04:51:04
Item 1: DA amendment to recommendation 5 (add Cllr Echeozonjoku to the City Manager recruitment panel)rejected
By show of hands, 66 voted in favour (including 4 virtual), 9 abstained and 136 voted against (including 4 virtual), so the amendment fell.
- 04:51:34
Item 1: City Manager appointment report, recommendations 1 to 6approved with DA objection recorded
Recommendations were approved as printed, including the panel in recommendation 5, with the DA's objection noted.
- 06:05:27
Items 15 to 19 (recommendations on pages 15.5, 16.27, 17.3, 18.4 and 19.10-19.11)approved
After the MMC's reply and the member in charge's closing, the Speaker asked if the items were agreed and declared them agreed.
- 06:42:45
Items 20, 21 and 22: Human Settlements, JOSHCO and Section 79 oversight reports (quarter 2, 2024/25)approved
Recommendations on pages 20.3, 21.9 and 22.6 were agreed after the MMC's response.
- 07:34:52
Items 23 and 24: Public Safety performance assessment report and Section 79 oversight report (quarter 2, 2024/25)approved
Recommendations on pages 23.21 and 24.4 were agreed after the MMC and the member in charge responded.
- 08:30:05
Office of the City Manager performance items (recommendations on pages 30.21 and 31.10-31.11)approved
Council noted the report and the items were agreed.
- 08:35:34
Quorum check requested by Cllr De Langequorum confirmed
A head count by Legal found 142 councillors present, so the sitting continued.
Attendance and conduct
60Who was away and why, as said in the chamber.
Apologies read out 26
- Private business (2)
- Mokoena*, Mkhize
- Leaving early (6)
- Christians, Nkomo*, Khanyile, Mhlongo, Amad, Nyaqela
- Ill health (9)
- Nomoya Mnisi, Brenda Dammie, Twala, Nyembe*, Juwairiya Kaldine, Makhafola, Liebenberg, Jainoodeen*, Durand*
- Arriving late (6)
- Ponsonby, Cherry, May*, Magwentshu, Nethamba, Bini
- No reason given (1)
- Jacobs*
- Bereavement (1)
- Zitha
- Other reason (1)
- Mchunu
* Name as heard; not matched to exactly one councillor.
MMC or Mayor not present for their business 4
- 00:37:00
Raseruthe: Member in charge for items 1 and 2 (MPAC) was absent; Cllr Buthelezi stood in.
- 02:10:42
Kaldine: Member in charge for items 7 to 9 (Development Planning) was absent; an acting member in charge was requested.
- 03:46:24
Nomoya Mnisi: The MMC for Economic Development is absent for the reply on the Economic Development items. MMC Masuku replies in her place.
- 08:35:55
Member in charge of Health and Social Development items 32 to 34 was not in the chamber when the item came up; another councillor tabled the reports.
Sound or equipment problem 15
- 01:21:15
A sound problem delayed MMC Arnolds' turn to speak; the cause was said to be at the back.
- 02:09:27
Air conditioning in the chamber had been faulty and was reported working again.
- 02:34:33
Open microphones made Cllr Schay's withdrawal inaudible.
- 02:47:34
Maswazi*: The chair asks Cllr Maswazi to check the microphone.
- 03:24:18
Wilskut*: The chair asks whether Cllr Wilskut's microphone is off.
- 04:52:42
The chair tells the MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services that the microphone is not working.
- 05:36:08
Bittkau*: The chair asks the speaker to move the microphone closer.
- 05:41:08
Raphadu*: The chair notes Cllr Raphadu's microphone is off and asks councillors to switch off their mics.
- 05:41:30
Bittkau*: The chair tells Cllr Bittkau the neighbouring microphone is on.
- 05:51:13
The chair points to a second microphone being on while the ANC councillor (Cllr Madiba) speaks.
- 05:51:54
The chair asks IT to check a microphone that keeps turning red.
- 05:56:41
Madiba*: The chair asks whether Cllr Madiba's microphone is off.
- 06:30:47
Maluleka*: Chair's remark suggests a sound or microphone problem that was fixed while Maluleka was speaking.
- 08:03:18
Mavhona*: Chair asked Mavhona to switch off her microphone after her speech.
- 08:11:04
Komane*: Chair asked Komane to switch off her microphone after her speech.
Warned or stopped by the chair 14
- 00:20:22
Xuma: Chair asked Xuma to take his seat so the meeting could resume.
- 00:59:16
Mkhonza: Chair told the speaker his speaking time was over.
- 01:56:48
Masoga: Chair told Masoga he could not respond during another councillor's speech.
- 02:03:20
Mazibuko*: Chair told Mazibuko to take his seat after he objected to her ruling.
- 02:22:31
Schay: Chair asked Schay to withdraw the term grasshoppers; he withdrew at 02:23:21.
- 02:25:18
Raphadu: Chair urged Raphadu to be tolerant after he questioned a colleague's insignia.
- 02:34:33
Schay: Chair asked Schay to withdraw the term creatures; he did so at 02:34:50.
- 03:40:28
Telekoa: The chair tells the speaker his speaking time has run out.
- 03:54:49
The chair stops the member in charge (Cllr Mhlongo) mid-remarks and says the direction of the exchange is out of order.
- 05:07:26
The chair asks councillors to settle down after the break.
- 05:22:35
The chair pauses Cllr Harris's speech and asks councillors to stop chatting.
- 05:38:05
Bittkau: The chair asks Cllr Bittkau to withdraw his remark about the Executive Mayor's name.
- 05:41:44
The chair appeals to councillors to stop name-calling.
- 06:10:49
Unnamed councillor: Chair asked councillors at the back to stop their side discussion because it was disruptive.
Not present when called 1
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