Tuesday, 30 September 2025 · 7 h 57 min · 1 video · 2021–2026 council
33rd Ordinary Council Meeting, Day 2
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 (17)
- ◯Quorum count (1)
- ‖Adjourned or paused (5)
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
On day 2 of the 33rd Ordinary Council Meeting, the City Manager recruitment report was referred to committee under Rule 88, and the Speaker asked for the gallery cleared and live streaming stopped. 07:55:12 Council approved the reviewed 2018 Land Use Scheme after the Speaker ruled that the yeses had it; the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84. 05:48:09 Item 63, certifying irregular and unauthorised expenditure as irrecoverable, was agreed; ActionSA cited about R845 million, and the ACDP recorded its dissent under Rule 84. 06:13:17 06:54:27 06:57:39
Council also agreed to or noted reports on Transport, JRA, Metrobus and MTC, supply chain deviations and acquisitions, and an extension of legal services contract A834. 01:59:55 03:00:06 04:37:17 05:08:14 Items 35 and 41 were withdrawn at the executive's request, and the DA recorded dissent when the community-based planning report, Item 64, was noted. 02:07:25 07:19:41
The sitting opened with a quorum check requested by Cllr Christians; legal advisors later reported 159 councillors present and the Speaker declared the meeting quorate. 00:06:47 Cllr Rahn objected when the Leader of Executive Business described Cape Town in racial terms, and the Speaker repeatedly called the house to order. 00:46:14 The Speaker said she would refer to Ethics a councillor who allegedly played a recording and boasted of sabotage, and make it public in announcements. 07:08:04
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: Council elects Makhuba, Cook and Ngoepe as chairs; reviewed 2018 Land Use Scheme approved
In brief
- 17 decisions: 11 approved, 4 noted or other, 2 deferred or withdrawn.
- 7 promises on record, including: The DA will take the Speaker's office rulings and decisions on judicial review.
- 1 quorum count.
- 59 apologies read out. Sound or equipment problem: 15; Warned or stopped by the chair: 25; Not present when called: 5; MMC or Mayor not present for their business: 5; Not ready when called: 2.
Chapters
66What was discussed, in order. Click a time to watch.
- 00:06:47
Opening, prayer and quorum dispute
The sitting opened with a moment of silence. Cllr Christians asked for a quorum check and invoked rule 58(1); the Speaker said it would be done as part of the opening. She then gave councillors ten minutes, later extended, to sign the attendance register. Legal advisors later reported 159 councillors present and the meeting proceeded.
ArnoldsAICChristiansDADe LangeFF+
Report an error - 00:27:39
Applications for leave of absence and late arrivals
The Secretary read out written leave applications. Whips and party representatives then announced further apologies, early departures and late arrivals. The Speaker asked members to inform her if they planned to leave early.
ArnoldsAICMakhubaIFPDe LangeFF+HarrisACDPZigebeUDMSimonsePA1 unidentified
Report an error - 00:34:51
Tabling of executive and legislature items
The Leader of Executive Business tabled the executive's items on behalf of the Executive Mayor. The Chair of Chairs tabled the legislature committee reports.
Report an error - 00:36:40
Items 19 and 20 read in; point on debating oversight reports
Items 19 and 20 (City Manager's office performance assessment and the Governance Section 79 oversight report) were read in together. Cllr De Lange said council had earlier resolved not to debate oversight reports, yet names were still listed against Items 47 to 58. The Chair of Chairs said these items would be read in and noted, and MMC Mabaso said an administrative correction was needed. The Speaker declined further debate.
De LangeFF+MaremaANCMabasoIFPEcheozonjokuDA
Also discussed: Items 19-20: City Manager's Office report introduced (29 September 2025) · Items 37 to 40: Oversight and performance reports (27 March 2025) · Item 53 withdrawn and remaining items read into record (31 July 2025)
Report an error - 00:41:51
Items 19 and 20: ANC debate
The ANC speaker congratulated the ANC Youth League on its National General Council and the new Ward 130 councillor. He said the City Manager's office is critical, KPIs must be met and service delivery communicated to residents. He called for a permanent City Manager to be appointed urgently and said the ANC notes the items.
Also discussed: Items 19-20: City Manager's Office report introduced (29 September 2025)
Report an error - 00:46:14
Executive response on Items 19 and 20 and dispute over racial remarks
The Leader of Executive Business responded and compared Cape Town with Johannesburg under DA administration, describing Cape Town in racial terms. Cllr Rahn objected on a point of protection, and Cllr Christians said the item was not about Cape Town. The Speaker repeatedly called the house to order, and the MMC then closed by asking council to note the report.
ZunguRahnDAChristiansDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 00:54:00
Items 19 and 20: member in charge closes and items agreed
The Speaker chided councillors for raising hands without citing a rule. The member in charge said all parties agreed a City Manager must be appointed and urged the Executive Mayor to finalise the process. Items 19 and 20 were then agreed to.
Report an error - 00:55:55
Items 21 to 24: Legislature and Ombudsman reports tabled; ACDP and ActionSA
Items 21 to 24 (Legislature and Office of the Ombudsman performance and oversight reports) were read in and tabled by Cllr Ponsonby. Cllr Rohlssen raised an unstable gallery window and the lack of repairs. ActionSA's Cllr Zwane welcomed some targets but criticised the 95 of 405 ward committee meetings held, late supplier payments, underspending and councillors in arrears.
PonsonbyPARohlssenACDPZwaneActionSA
Report an error - 01:07:23
Items 21 to 24: DA and EFF speakers
Cllr Avant-Smith, speaking for the DA, said the legislature had failed on oversight and accused the Speaker's office of partiality. She also said Section 79 committees act as rubber stamps and that transparency has collapsed. An EFF councillor, speaking on behalf of Cllr Baloyi, said the EFF approves the report with concern. The concerns were the low ward committee meetings, councillors not holding public meetings and the unfinished City Manager appointment.
Avant-SmithDA1 unidentified
Also discussed: Item 17: DA, ANC and MMC Zungu (2 September 2025) · Section 79 committee report close and items 37 to 40 (27 March 2025) · Items 21–24: Legislature and Ombudsman quarterly performance and oversight reports (31 July 2025)
Report an error - 01:14:51
Items 21 to 24: ANC, Chair of Chairs response and items agreed
Cllr Moeti said the ANC notes the reports. The Chair of Chairs responded that all councillors share the duty to hold the executive to account, and acknowledged wards where public meetings are not being held. Cllr Ponsonby closed and the items were agreed.
Report an error - 01:26:16
Post-debate remark by Cllr Khanyile ruled out of order
Cllr Khanyile raised a point after the debate had closed about ward and PR councillors being treated as equal yet carrying different service-delivery responsibilities. The Speaker ruled him out of order and moved to the next item.
Report an error - 01:27:47
Items 25 to 34: Transport Department and entities read in and tabled
The Secretary read in Items 25 to 34, covering Q3 and Q4 performance assessment and oversight reports for the Transport Department, JRA, Metrobus and the Metropolitan Trading Company. Cllr Twala tabled the items.
Report an error - 01:31:45
Items 25 to 34: ACDP, DA and FF+ on JRA and Transport
Cllr Rohlssen raised the Champagne and Platina bridges and asked the executive for emergency funding for JRA. DA's Cllr Kreusch criticised Transport reporting, grant money returned and the Lilian Ngoyi Road spending. FF+'s Cllr Boer said JRA's report looked better than the state of roads, citing road closures in Region C.
Also discussed: Items 25-29: Transport, JRA, Metrobus and MTC reports, debate (26 March 2025)
Report an error - 01:41:57
Items 25 to 34: PA, ActionSA, DA, IFP and EFF speakers
The PA's Cllr Pitso commended the former Transport MMC's Wi-Fi rollout and urged protection of infrastructure from vandalism. ActionSA's Cllr Mabelebele detailed the Transport Department's, Metrobus's, JRA's and MTC's missed targets and financial risks. DA's Cllr Mnisi raised blocked stormwater drains in Protea South, Ward 10. The IFP's Cllr Khanyile noted concerns about Piotrans buses and Phase 1C. The EFF's Cllr Leshilo said Rea Vaya is in crisis and called for a permanent City Manager.
PitsoPAMabelebeleActionSAMaureen MnisiDAKhanyileIFPLeshiloEFF
Also discussed: Items 25-29: Transport, JRA, Metrobus and MTC reports, debate (26 March 2025) · Transport items: Metrobus, MTC and Rea Vaya comments continue (26 March 2025)
Report an error - 01:59:55
Items 25 to 34: MTC questions, ANC, executive response and items agreed
A DA Cllr Pietersen put questions on MTC debtor days, the shareholder loan interest and vacancies. The ANC's Cllr Supe said the ANC notes the reports. The Leader of Executive Business responded on JRA improvements and vandalism, and Items 25 to 34 were agreed to.
SupeANCZunguTwalaANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 02:07:25
Withdrawal of Items 35 and 41; caucus break
As Item 35 was being read, the Leader of Executive Business asked that Items 35 and 41 be withdrawn, and the Speaker agreed. The Chief Whip then requested a ten-minute caucus of the whips, which was granted.
Report an error - 02:19:25
Chief Whip reports back: Items 36 to 40 clubbed
After the break the Chief Whip reported that the whips agreed to club Items 36 to 40, which are the JPC items. Each party would use one speaker across all five items, with Cllrs Harris, De Lange, Molefe and Moepi named among them. The Speaker confirmed the arrangement.
Report an error - 02:23:32
Items 36 to 40: read in, ActionSA withdraws, ACDP on Eskom servitude
Items 36 to 40 were read in together, covering the Eskom servitude, sanitary lane alienations and the Southern Farms amendment. ActionSA's Cllr Moatshe withdrew from speaking. Cllr Harris supported the Eskom servitude item but asked JPC to compel Eskom to maintain servitudes.
Report an error - 02:27:20
Items 36 to 40: EFF and start of FF+ contribution
The EFF's Cllr Moepi said the EFF notes the items but demanded that a permanent City Manager be appointed. He also congratulated the EFF Youth Command on winning the Wits SRC election. Cllr De Lange began speaking on the Southern Farms amendment but was interrupted by the Speaker as the part ended.
Report an error - 02:30:02
Vulumax Joint Venture lease amendment: FF+ concerns
Cllr De Lange (FF+) explained that the 50-year lease is being amended so the Vulumax JV can mortgage the stands to raise development finance. He raised three outstanding concerns: stands still to be bought at high prices, an environmental impact study dating from 2011, and a pending land claim on a large portion of the site. He said Section 79 quarterly reports from the developer and JPC would be used to follow up.
Report an error - 02:32:51
Items 36-40: servitude, sanitary lanes and Southern Farms (ANC)
Cllr Molefe (ANC) raised concern about councillors who skip oversight visits in Deep South and informal areas. He presented item 36, an Eskom servitude over Rietfontein land for the Lenasia 88kV upgrade, and recommended approval subject to amendments: council consent for any sublet or cession, proof of payment, and a performance guarantee. He said items 37-39 on sanitary lanes were noted. He described the Southern Farms Mega City project, the item 40 amendment to its land availability agreement, and said the ANC notes the item.
MolefeANC
Report an error - 02:42:46
MMC Mnisi replies; items 36-40 agreed
MMC Mnisi said Cllr Moepi's input on City Manager recruitment was misplaced and belonged under item 66. She told Cllr De Lange that the Southern Farms report and its environmental report were approved by council in 2024. She asked council to note and approve the reports. The Speaker read out the recommendation pages and the items were agreed.
MnisiANC
Report an error - 02:45:48
Item 42: SCM deviations and ratifications – ActionSA
The Speaker introduced item 42 on supply chain deviation and ratification reports for April to June 2025. The ACDP said it simply notes the report. Cllr Edward (ActionSA) accused the administration of abusing Regulation 36 and said deviations are brought for retrospective approval. She blamed the Mayor and executive for financial mismanagement, and ActionSA noted the report with concerns.
Also discussed: Item 46: SCM deviation and ratification reports (27 March 2025) · Item 77: SCM Deviation and Ratification Report (Q3) (25 June 2026)
Report an error - 02:51:23
Item 42: DA on Regulation 36 deviations
Cllr Pietersen (DA) cited Auditor-General warnings that deviations should be the exception. He pointed to the R2.5 million Urban 20 summit venue and R45 million interim bus services as foreseeable needs. He said the report lacks corrective measures and has incomplete annexures. He asked that these items go to MPAC and the Section 79 committee with proper paper trails.
Report an error - 02:55:24
Item 42: EFF response
Cllr Zitha (EFF) spoke in Xitsonga and answered MMC Mnisi's earlier remark that Cllr Moepi's input was misplaced. She said deviations from procedure should not be used lightly or become an escape when things go wrong. The EFF accepts the report.
Report an error - 02:57:51
Item 42: ANC support
Cllr Modupi (ANC) spoke in Sesotho. He said the report strengthens the city's administration and transparency and criticised opposition complaints about deviations. The ANC supports the report and asked council to note it.
Report an error - 03:00:06
Item 42: MMC Masuku replies; item put to council
MMC Masuku said Regulation 36 should not be abused and gave unavailable U20 venues as an example of events beyond the administration's control. She supported Section 79 requests for documentation and said no consequence management was needed in this report. She rebuked Cllr Edward, a former committee chair, over her corruption claims. The Speaker then read the recommendation page and asked whether the item was agreed.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 03:06:28
- 04:18:40
Resumption and item 43 introduced
The Speaker welcomed councillors back and urged smooth progress. She introduced item 43, the SCM acquisition status report on bids approved by the accounting officer from 1 April to 30 June 2025.
Report an error - 04:20:11
Item 43: ActionSA on tenders
Cllr Edward (ActionSA) criticised bids listed in the report, including R174 million to Standard Bank, the R3.1 billion Rea Vaya contract and single-bidder awards. She called for a forensic audit of some tenders and for explanations of one-bid awards and of why the highest bidders were chosen. ActionSA noted the report with concerns.
Report an error - 04:25:01
Item 43: DA critique of awards and expenditure
Cllr Pietersen (DA) went through high-value awards by department and noted R13 billion written off as irregular, unauthorised, fruitless and wasteful expenditure. He questioned a company named Pimp My Computer, for which he found no public tender record. He called for transparent procurement and accountability for every rand.
Report an error - 04:30:12
Item 43: EFF position
Cllr Zitha (EFF) acknowledged that the bids went through the central and executive committees. She questioned the seven-year, R3.1 billion Litsamaiso Rea Vaya contract and the R174 million Standard Bank contract. The EFF supports noting the report but demands regular monitoring, penalties for under-performance, and a shift away from dependence on private firms and banks.
Report an error - 04:34:05
Item 43: ANC and Cape Town comparisons
Cllr Nofemela (ANC) greeted the chamber, congratulated the ANC on retaining Ward 130, and made remarks aimed at DA leadership. On item 43 she said the ANC found nothing untoward and that the evaluation and adjudication committees followed the prescripts. She invited the house to visit Khayelitsha to see Cape Town's governance, and the ANC noted the report.
Report an error - 04:37:17
Item 43: MMC Masuku replies; item put to council
MMC Masuku told Cllr Edward to report any theft through GFIS, the hotline, email or SAPS instead of making allegations in council. She said the report is for council's information on bids procured and that residents must get value for money. She asked council to note the report, and the Speaker asked whether the item was agreed.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 04:40:25
Cllr Da Rocha's off-agenda state-of-emergency remark
Cllr Da Rocha (DA) said residents lack water and that council should declare a state of emergency. The Speaker stopped him, saying she had asked him the day before to state his agenda item, and moved on after asking him to switch off his mic.
Also discussed: Councillor Da Rocha removed from the chamber (26 August 2026)
Report an error - 04:41:32
Item 44: SCM operational status report – ActionSA
The Speaker introduced item 44, the operational status report for 1 April to 30 June 2025. Cllr Edward (ActionSA) said council must scrutinise whether bids were competitive, fair and value for money, and not just note the reports. She complained of personal attacks on speakers, and ActionSA noted the report.
Report an error - 04:46:10
Item 44: DA on Smit Street stock write-off
Cllr Pietersen (DA) raised a proposed write-off of about R26 million of Smit Street store stock, referred to GFIS, and an unexplained R7.5 million adjustment. He asked who places requisitions there, citing an RFQ for first-aid kits. He asked that the matter go to MPAC and that departments prioritise water, sanitation and electricity.
Report an error - 04:51:09
Item 44: EFF commends report
Cllr Zitha (EFF) commended officials for compiling a comprehensive and transparent report. She noted weaknesses in stock control, contract management and procurement planning. The EFF noted and supported the report and called on the administration to act decisively on the shortcomings.
Also discussed: Item 46: supply chain report – EFF, ANC and MMC Mabaso (31 July 2025) · Item 1 debate: ANC (3 July 2025)
Report an error - 04:53:32
Item 44: ANC on stock and consequence management
Cllr Maswazi (ANC) summarised the stock position: R108.6 million held at 30 June, R3.6 million written off as expired and R26.2 million marked for deletion. He commended MMC Masuku for referring matters to GFIS and said staff handling inventory must be qualified and measured against performance indicators. The ANC asked council to note the report.
Report an error - 04:57:57
Item 44: MMC Masuku replies; item agreed
MMC Masuku said referrals depend on MPAC processes concluding, and that the disciplinary board's sitting frequency was discussed to avoid a backlog. She said she had no immediate answer on Cllr Pietersen's RFQ and cartridge queries but would provide one via his whip. She acknowledged weaknesses in contract management and asked council to note the report. The Speaker read the recommendation page and the item was agreed.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 05:03:35
Item 45: Contract A834 specialised legal services – ActionSA
The Speaker introduced item 45, an amendment extending contract A834 for specialised legal services. Cllr Nkomo (ActionSA) cautioned against a further nine-month extension of a contract awarded in June 2021 and already extended. She said the delays reflect poor planning by Group Legal and Contracts, but that council now has no choice but to approve. She demanded the procurement be expedited with clear timelines.
NkomoActionSA
Report an error - 05:06:55
Item 45: DA on contract A834 reporting duties
Cllr Marais (DA) said this is the second time Group Legal and Contracts has sought to amend contract A834. The contract was extended by 12 months by council resolution on 19 September 2024. He pointed to Section 116(2)(d) of the MFMA, under which the accounting officer must report regularly on contract management and contractor performance, and to the three-yearly review requirement in Section 116(1)(b)(iii). The segment ends mid-speech.
MaraisDA
Report an error - 05:08:14
Item 45: extension of legal services panel contract
The sitting resumes mid-debate on extending contract A834 for specialised legal services. Cllr Marais criticises the lack of contract management and performance reports to council. The EFF does not oppose the extension but demands it be the last, and the ANC notes the report. MMC Masuku says the concerns about planning are being monitored, expects the procurement to finish in under six months, and asks council to approve.
MaraisDAZithaEFFNofemelaANCMasukuANC
Report an error - 05:18:38
Item 46: Land Use Scheme tabled and DA speech
After a warning about phones, the Speaker introduces the request to approve the reviewed 2018 Land Use Scheme. Cllr Kaldine tables it as member in charge. Cllr Schay says the DA does not reject a new scheme but cannot support it now, and calls for ring-fenced bulk service contributions, dynamic contribution pricing tied to real capacity, and data-sharing between departments. The Speaker warns him against repeating the previous day's disorder.
Report an error - 05:27:35
Item 46: EFF supports the Land Use Scheme
Cllr Komane says the review followed three consultation phases across seven regions. The EFF adopts the report's recommendations.
Report an error - 05:30:49
Item 46: ANC speech, leg-stretch request and history exchanges
Cllr Rahn asks for a leg stretch and the Speaker says to finish the item first. Cllr Lefutso outlines the scheme's SPLUMA basis and review process, then speaks on colonial history and Gaza. Cllr Rahn and Cllr Christians interject, and Christians says the Khoi and San were the original inhabitants whose land was taken.
Report an error - 05:40:20
Item 46: order disputes and MMC Mgcina's response
The Speaker deals with interjections and the Executive Mayor moving about the chamber. A DA councillor raises a point of order about members moving while someone is speaking. MMC Mgcina replies that the advert ran over 90 days with regional engagements and Section 79 consideration, and outlines benefits such as fewer site development plans for minor buildings and more home-based economic opportunities. She asks the DA to support the scheme.
Report an error - 05:48:09
Item 46: closing, approval and DA objection
Cllr Kaldine closes as member in charge, saying the Section 79 committee recommends approval and that debate belongs in committee. An unidentified councillor objects that closers should not tell councillors not to debate in council. The Speaker declares that the yeses have it. The DA then records its opposition under Rule 84, citing insufficient bylaw enforcement.
KaldinePA1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:51:18
Five-minute break
The Speaker grants the break requested by Cllr Rahn. The meeting resumes at 06:04:58 after about eight minutes, and the Speaker mentions lost scarves and shoes.
Report an error - 06:06:15
Items 47-58: oversight visit reports
The Speaker reads together twelve oversight reports from the Health and Social Development, Transport and Economic Development Section 79 committees. They cover clinics, construction sites, bridges, the JRA asphalt plant and the Southern Farm Development. She also asks members to keep noise down. The items are agreed.
Also discussed: Items 20-22: Human Settlements, JOSHCO and Section 79 oversight reports (26 March 2025)
Report an error - 06:10:52
Chamber toilets complaint
Cllr Coogan raises concern that the chamber's bathrooms are deteriorating, with non-working toilets, soap dispensers and flashing lights. She asks for handymen. The chair says it is noted and will be responded to.
Report an error - 06:11:57
Items 59-62: Section 79 committee terms of reference
Items 59 to 62 are read together: terms of reference for the Community Development, Health and Social Development, MPAC and Transport Section 79 committees. All are agreed.
Report an error - 06:13:17
Item 63: UIFW expenditure certification tabled; ActionSA speech
Cllr Mazibuko, standing in for the MPAC member in charge, tables the motion to certify irregular and unauthorized expenditure as irrecoverable under MFMA section 32. Cllr Xulu says ActionSA supports the item but with anger, citing about R845 million (R312 million irregular and R533 million unauthorized). He calls for empowering GFIS and for political and administrative accountability.
MazibukoXuluActionSA
Report an error - 06:21:48
Item 63: FF Plus and DA speeches
Cllr Boer says the report is not a real motivation and objects to writing off R423 million from Human Settlements, but supports it. Cllr Suddaby explains that matters before 1 July 2018 sit with GFIS and that all others are referred to GRAS. She says MPAC is ready to receive deviation reports under its new terms of reference, asks the Mayor to have entities submit their UIFW registers to MPAC, and says the DA approves with concern.
Report an error - 06:31:52
Item 63: ACDP, GOOD and UDM positions
Cllr Harris says the ACDP does not approve the write-off, citing weak consequence management. Cllr Cook says GOOD supports the recommendations while demanding corrective action, and notes he is leaving MPAC to chair finance. Cllr Zigebe says the UDM supports the item but wants it to be the last such write-off without reform.
Report an error - 06:40:52
Item 63: Mmbengwa speech and points of order
Cllr Mmbengwa gives a long speech on the history of the problem, including criticism of earlier multi-party administrations, and defends MPAC under the GNU. Cllr Santana, Cllr Belinda and Cllr Christians raise points of order about relevance, references to the Madlanga Commission and perceived double standards. Mmbengwa withdraws the commission reference and wraps up.
MmbengwaANCSantanaDAMofokengEcheozonjokuDAChristiansDA
Report an error - 06:54:27
Item 63: member in charge replies; item agreed
Cllr Mazibuko replies that MPAC is committed to a clean audit and to clearing the UIFW register, and asks council to approve. The Speaker asks about a disruption from the chamber, then declares the item agreed.
Mazibuko
Report an error - 06:57:39
ACDP dissent on item 63 and broken window safety
Cllr Harris records the ACDP's dissent on item 63 under Rule 84. Cllr Rohlssen asks that the area below a broken window be cordoned off for safety, and the Speaker says it will be attended to.
Report an error - 06:58:46
Item 64 (urgency): community-based planning, Zigebe
The urgency items begin with item 64, public participation for community-based planning for October to November 2025. Cllr Zigebe welcomes the preparations and asks that accessibility for people with disabilities, including transport and catering, be addressed in each session.
Report an error - 07:00:22
Item 64: DA opposes cluster meetings
Cllr Christians argues the report describes cluster meetings, not community-based planning, and that R4 million for 40 meetings (about R100,000 each) is a tick-box exercise. He notes the uneven spread of virtual meetings across regions and asks the Speaker to send the report back to be redone.
Report an error - 07:08:04
Speaker threatens ethics referral over sabotage remark
The Speaker says she knows who played a recording and who is bragging about sabotaging things. She says she will deal with the person and take the matter to Ethics, and will make it public in announcements. Cllr Belinda interjects.
Report an error - 07:09:12
Item 64: Chair of Chairs rises; ActionSA speaker mix-up
The Chair of Chairs begins to respond and queries speaker allocation. An ActionSA member says a speaker was submitted that morning, and the Speaker allows Cllr Xulu to speak. He starts on item 66 by mistake, and the Speaker says the item is 64.
Report an error - 07:11:55
Item 64: Chair of Chairs replies amid points of order
The Chair of Chairs says the item only asks permission to go out and consult communities and points to council forums for service delivery matters. Cllr Da Rocha and Cllr Belinda raise points of order under Rule 72, and Cllr Mofokeng and others object. The Speaker restricts further points of order and tells the Chair of Chairs to conclude. He asks council to approve and note the report.
MaremaANCDa RochaDAEcheozonjokuDAMofokeng
Report an error - 07:19:41
Item 64: noted with DA dissent
The Speaker declares the item for information noted. Cllr Christians records the DA's dissent under Rule 84, calling it malicious compliance rather than public participation.
Report an error - 07:20:30
Caucus request before the last item
Before the last item is tabled, a request is made for a five-minute caucus. The Speaker grants it, noting the item has not yet been distributed. The caucus runs for about 32 minutes, and Cllr Kunene apologises for the delay on return.
Report an error - 07:55:12
Item 66: City Manager recruitment report; request for committee
The report on progress to recruit the City Manager is introduced as an urgency item. An unidentified councillor asks under Rule 88 that the matter be dealt with in committee. The Speaker asks for everything to be switched off, the gallery cleared and live streaming stopped.
1 unidentified
Also discussed: Item 60: register of financial interests of councillors; move to in-committee (13 March 2025)
Report an error
Promises
7Commitments with a date, an amount or a 'we will'.
On 5 November 2026 (when this page was built): 0 overdue, 0 due in the next 30 days, 7 with no date. Overdue first; dates are AI readings of what was said; tap or hover a label for how. All promises.
No dateChris Avant-Smith · DA
The DA will take the Speaker's office rulings and decisions on judicial review.
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“Many of these decisions will be taken on review by the Democratic Alliance.”
No dateMaureen Mnisi · DA
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We will demand clear timelines for repairs, escalating to the Section 79 Oversight Committee”
No dateLoyiso Masuku · MMC for Finance (by surname)
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“supplementary documentation that will be requested must be made available. And that's our commitment”
No dateLoyiso Masuku · MMC for Finance (by surname)
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we will do even if it's through a response to your whip so that we provide that clarity”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
The chair will respond to the complaint about non-functional toilets in the chamber.
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We have noted, and we will respond on it.”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Attend to the safety concern about the broken window by cordoning off the area below it.
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 30 October 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“We'll attend to it. Thank you, Councillor Rohlssen.”
- In progressPoint of safety on broken window · 30 October 2025
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Not raised again in 15 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we are going to take this to Ethics.”
Decisions
17What council approved, rejected or put off.
- 00:27:25
Quorumquorum confirmed
Legal advised that 159 councillors were present, and the Speaker declared the meeting quorate and continued.
- 00:55:38
Items 19 and 20: Office of the City Manager Q4 performance assessment and Governance Section 79 oversight reportapproved
The Speaker put the recommendations on pages 19.24 and 20.10 and the items were agreed to (noted).
- 01:25:55
Items 21 to 24: Legislature and Office of the Ombudsman performance and oversight reportsapproved
The recommendations of the committee reports were agreed to without objection.
- 02:07:21
Items 25 to 34: Transport Department, JRA, Metrobus and MTC performance and oversight reportsapproved
The recommendations on the listed pages were agreed to after the debate.
- 02:08:01
Items 35 and 41withdrawn
At the executive's request, Item 35 (development agreement amendment, Portion 420) and Item 41 were withdrawn from the agenda.
- 02:22:55
Procedure for Items 36 to 40approved
Council agreed to read Items 36 to 40 together, with one speaker per party covering all items.
- 02:45:27
Items 36-40 (Eskom servitude, sanitary lanes, Southern Farms agreement amendment)approved
After the Speaker read the recommendation pages, the items were declared agreed; item 40 was to be noted.
- 03:06:05
Item 42 – SCM deviation and ratification reports, April to June 2025approved
The Speaker asked whether the item was agreed and then adjourned for lunch; no objection is recorded in the transcript.
- 04:40:04
Item 43 – SCM acquisition status report, April to June 2025noted
The Speaker asked whether the item was agreed and moved on after the response, with no objection recorded.
- 05:03:17
Item 44 – SCM operational status report, April to June 2025noted
The Speaker asked whether the item was agreed, answered 'Agreed', and moved to item 45.
- 05:18:10
Item 45: extension of contract A834 for specialised legal servicesapproved
The Speaker asked if the item was agreed and it was agreed, with the EFF and ANC supporting or noting the report.
- 05:50:26
Item 46: reviewed City of Johannesburg Land Use Scheme 2018approved
The Speaker ruled that the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84 (05:50:57).
- 06:10:50
Items 47-58: Section 79 oversight visit reportsapproved
All twelve items were put together and agreed.
- 06:13:11
Items 59-62: terms of reference for Section 79 committeesapproved
Terms of reference for the Community Development, Health and Social Development, MPAC and Transport committees were agreed.
- 06:57:22
Item 63: certify irregular and unauthorized expenditure as irrecoverable and regularizeapproved
The Speaker declared the item agreed and moved on; the ACDP recorded its dissent under Rule 84 (06:57:44).
- 07:19:41
Item 64: public participation for community-based planning, October-November 2025noted
The report was noted as information; the DA recorded its dissent under Rule 84 (07:20:14).
- 07:56:16
Item 66: report on progress to recruit the City Managerreferred to committee (requested)
A councillor requested under Rule 88 that the matter be dealt with in committee, and the Speaker then asked for the gallery to be cleared and live streaming stopped.
Attendance and conduct
111Who was away and why, as said in the chamber.
Apologies read out 59
- Party business (3)
- Mokoka, Themba Mabunda, Chuma
- Ill health (17)
- Van Wyk, Nkosi, Jabulani Ngwenya, Crichton, Zanele Hughes*, Louw, Christians, Truluck, Raseruthe, Molefe*, Mosehla, Shumba, Raphadu, Mabuza, Zondo, L. Ndou, M. Dlamini
- Family responsibility (2)
- Moatshe, Durand*
- Official duty (7)
- Makhafola, *, Marumo, Tshehlo, B. Dlamini, Lobi, Julius Maake
- Other reason (4)
- Ntshidi, Wissler, Johnson, Bongani Nkomo
* Name as heard; not matched to exactly one councillor.
Sound or equipment problem 15
- 00:03:45
Sound test carried out before the sitting started.
- 01:15:04
Speaker asked to speak into the microphone.
- 01:30:31
Chair asked the speaker to use the microphone.
- 01:50:37
Chair asked a councillor to switch off a microphone.
- 02:04:09
Supe*: Chair asked her to switch off her microphone.
- 02:33:48
The ANC councillor's microphones failed and the chair asked for a roving mic at 02:34:43.
- 03:00:20
Modupi*: Chair asked for Cllr Modupi's microphone to be switched off.
- 04:30:29
Pietersen*: Chair asked Cllr Pietersen to switch off her microphone.
- 04:34:30
Nofemela*: Chair asked Cllr Nofemela to speak into her microphone.
- 04:41:26
Da Rocha*: Chair asked Cllr Da Rocha to switch off his microphone.
- 04:46:36
Edward*: Chair asked Cllr Edward to switch off her microphone.
- 04:58:20
A speaker said their microphone was not working after the chair noted a mic was on.
- 05:15:16
A disturbance or technical problem interrupted the ANC councillor's speech and IT was called.
- 05:50:51
A microphone was left on and the chair asked for it to be switched off.
- 07:56:06
A microphone was left on during item 66.
Warned or stopped by the chair 25
- 00:48:01
Leader of Executive Business told to sit during a disruption.
- 00:48:34
Chair called councillors to order during an exchange.
- 00:49:58
Leader of Executive Business told to take his seat.
- 00:51:33
Deppe: Chair asked her and a neighbour to stop interrupting.
- 00:52:14
Time warning to the Leader of Executive Business.
- 00:54:01
Christians: Chair refused him the floor and cautioned against raising hands without a rule.
- 00:59:30
Rohlssen: Chair asked him to sit while she checked for interjections.
- 01:02:10
Rohlssen: Speaking time ended.
- 01:22:34
Time warning to the Chair of Chairs.
- 01:23:21
Maila: Chair ruled him out of order after his interjection.
- 01:27:31
Khanyile: Ruled out of order for speaking after the debate closed.
- 01:41:52
Time warning to the Freedom Front Plus speaker.
- 01:52:54
Time ended for the DA speaker on item 26.
- 02:02:03
Time ended for the DA speaker on items 28 and 33.
- 02:25:51
Chair asked councillors at the back to be quiet during Councillor Harris's speech.
- 02:29:55
Chair called the chamber to order and held Councillor De Lange.
- 04:40:54
Da Rocha: Chair told Cllr Da Rocha to sit for raising a matter unrelated to the agenda item.
- 04:41:53
Chair called for order while a councillor was being called.
- 04:24:34
Chair warned the speaker, Cllr Edward, about remaining speaking time.
- 04:47:23
Chair told an ActionSA councillor to stop talking while a colleague was speaking.
- 05:20:30
Schay: The Speaker cautioned Schay about his remarks during the item 46 debate.
- 06:47:04
Mmbengwa: The Speaker told Mmbengwa to sit while points were raised during his item 63 speech.
- 07:18:08
Mofokeng*: The Speaker refused to allow a point of order on a point of order.
- 07:18:27
Chame: The Speaker called Chame to order during the item 64 exchanges.
- 07:18:27
Rahn: The Speaker told Rahn that no further points of order would be taken on item 64.
Not present when called 5
- 02:46:06
Mkhonza: Chair called Cllr Mkhonza (ACDP) on item 42; an ACDP member said the party would only note the report.
- 04:29:53
Mkhonza: Chair began calling Cllr Mkhonza on item 43 and at 04:30:00 said ACDP was not there.
- 04:46:10
Mkhonza: Chair skipped Cllr Mkhonza on item 44 as he was not present.
- 04:19:53
Edward: Chair asked whether Cllr Edward was present; she spoke shortly afterwards.
- 05:19:37
Nefdt: Nefdt was not in the chamber when the speakers' list reached them on item 46; Cllr Schay spoke instead.
MMC or Mayor not present for their business 5
- 04:20:11
Speaker greeted the Executive Mayor as absent from the sitting.
- 04:26:06
A DA councillor observed the MMC for Transport was not present during item 43.
- 04:26:30
A DA councillor observed the MMC for Development Planning was not present during item 43.
- 04:27:02
A DA councillor observed the MMC for Economic Development was absent during item 43.
- 06:13:37
The member in charge of MPAC was absent with an apology for item 63; Cllr Mazibuko stood in.
Not ready when called 2
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