Transcript: 34th Ordinary Council Meeting

Opening, notice of meeting and quorum count

00:00:20for a moment of silence or meditation. And can we keep those people in prayer on the N3 that has died this morning, the families, and also for the tragedy that happened last week in Westbury where two were killed.

00:00:51I thank you, colleagues. Before we start, can we also ensure as whips that our members are inside and that we settle down? I thank you.

00:01:25Uh good morning, councillors. It is hereby notified that the 34th Ordinary Council Meeting of the City of Johannesburg Municipality will be held on Thursday, the 30th of October 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Constance Connie Bapela Council Chamber in Braamfontein. And the first item on the agenda is opening.

00:01:47Good morning once again, councillors. I'm please asking that we settle down. We have started. To the executive mayor of the City of Johannesburg in absentia, Councillor Sello Dada Morero; whip of council, Councillor Gazamula Chauke in absentia; chair of chairs, Councillor Vhuhani Marema;

00:02:11all political party leaders and whips; members of the mayoral committee; um chairpersons of Section 79 committees; fellow councillors; acting city manager, Mr. Kiba Kekana; secretary to council, Mr. Andile Gobinca; officials of the City of Johannesburg; residents of the City of Johannesburg;

00:02:37members of the media in the gallery and all our visitors, ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you to the 34th Ordinary Council Meeting of the City of Johannesburg. At this point, I will allow 10 minutes for legal to count the number of councillors present in the chamber and also to verify

00:03:06the number of councillors who have signed the register so as to confirm the quorum of this meeting. I thank you. We are now coming back. It's exactly 10:00. Please be seated if you are inside so that you can be counted. We are going to restart at 10 past 10 to give the time. Can we be seated if we are inside?

00:03:33isiZuluUhlala phansi,

00:03:35Afrikaanskan ons sit?

00:07:20Councillors, councillors, you are not assisting us with a body count. Councillors, councillors, you are not assisting us with a body count. Can we be seated?

00:07:46We've asked for councillors to be seated so that we can be counted.

00:08:20Can I ask the whips of political parties to whip their councillors so that they can be seated because we are having a problem with counting you. And those from rules that has asked us to change the rules are even not assisting.

00:08:45I'm not looking your side. I'm not looking, so I'm not accusing you, councillor. I'm just asking for people to sit down, but I'll take your hand. I'll take your hand.

00:08:59Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, just a correction, it's not rules committee that helps you with the count, it's actually the whippery that's responsible for discipline in the house with yourself. Thank you.

00:09:09No, I'm I I know it's whippery, but I'm saying the people that has taken the decision is even not not uh acknowledging their own decision. Now, I can see you in a Can we re- Can we restart the count? But you need to be seated in your seat so that we can count you.

00:10:48Councillor at the back from ACDP, is your hand up? Councillor Rohlssen, is your hand up? Okay. Thank you, councillor.

00:13:41Thank you so much, colleagues, and um once again, we've done the body count. We are 161 in the chamber, and we are 185 that have signed, and my plea once again is that when the invite for council goes out, it says 10:00.

00:14:10It doesn't say 5 past 10 or quarter past 10. So can we be seated by quarter to 10 so that we are all here? Thank you, colleagues. We are going to the next item. We do quorate.

Applications for leave of absence

00:14:26Councillors, we proceed uh with applications for leave of absence.

00:14:32Colleagues, we have received the following leave of absence. We have received a an apology from MMC Nkokou due to ill health. We have received MMC Sekwaila due to council business.

00:14:58We have received from Councillor Roberts due to private business. We've received Councillor Mkhonza due to private business. Councillor Karolia will arrive at 12:00. Are there any other further apologies? Can I see the hands? Councillor Avant-Smith,

00:15:25Councillor Mofokeng, the councillor of the Councillor Ntombela, Councillor the whip of the EFF, Mogapi, Councillor Helen Makhuba,

00:15:46Councillor Lois uh Simonse, and that's where we are. Uh Councillor De Lange, you've heard me calling your name and you know after who you have to stand up. Can we have it in that um setup? Thank you, Councillor Avant-Smith.

00:16:07Good morning, Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Um we have just some late arrivals today. We have Councillor Hoon, Councillor Deppe and Councillor Coogan who will arrive within the next hour. Um and uh Councillor Chame will need to leave by 8 7:30 this evening if we're not done. Thank you.

00:16:30Thank you, Councillor Avant-Smith. Next. Next councillor.

00:16:39Uh good morning, Speaker. Uh Councillor Mavhona, off sick. Councillor Phindile Simelane, off sick. Late arrival is Chief Whip Chauke, Mayor Dada Morero, uh Councillor Mabuke, Councillor Maake, and Councillor Okay.

00:17:01Uh for councillors that request to leave early by 4:00 if we are not done, Councillor Laban, Councillor Lefutso, Councillor Mphaho. Thank you very much.

00:17:15Thank you, councillor. Councillor Ntombela.

00:17:21Thank you, Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Uh leave of absence from ActionSA, we've got Councillor Mkhonto, party business; Councillor Nkomo, ill health; and Councillor Ntlemeza, ill health. Councillor Lebatlang, family bereavement. Councillor Mabunda and Mokoka have requested to leave at 2:00, should the council uh meeting to be conclude could not be concluded by then.

00:17:50And Councillor Zwane requesting to leave early at 4:00 if the meeting is not is not concluded. And Councillor Bini also leaving to leave at 3:00 if the meeting is not concluded. Thank you, Speaker.

00:18:04Thank you, councillor. The next councillor. Councillor Makhuba.

00:18:09Mogapi.

00:18:10Oh, Councillor Mogapi. Sorry, apologies.

00:18:13Thank you, Speaker. From the EFF caucus, it's Councillor Nkosi, ill health; Councillor Mbambala, family bereavement. Late arrivals is Councillor Makhafola, Councillor Molefe, Councillor Ntoele, Councillor Ngwenya, and Councillor Telekoa. Thank you.

00:18:33Thank you, Councillor Mogapi. Councillor Makhuba.

00:18:37Thank you, Speaker. For the IFP, Councillor Mkhize is out of the province. Councillor Nyembe and MMC Mabaso will be arriving late. Thank you.

00:18:48Thank you, councillor. Councillor Mofokeng.

00:18:56Sorry, Speaker, I just received one. Councillor Khomongoe, late arrival.

00:19:00Thank you, councillor. Councillor Gwamanda.

00:19:05Thank you very much, Speaker. Uh good morning to you. I just want to register that uh Councillor Karolia is running late due to council business in the ward. Thank you.

00:19:17I have already um registered that apology, Councillor Gwamanda. Are we

00:19:30Madam Speaker, good morning to the house. Um we just have a early departure, which is Councillor Duane Ponsonby, if we are not done by 4:00. Thank you.

00:19:38Thank you so much, Councillor Simonse. Apologies for overlooking you. Councillor De Lange.

00:19:46Uh good morning, Madam Speaker. If we are not finished by 1800 hours, 6:00 tonight, Councillor Paul Smit would like to put in his leave. Thank you.

00:19:57Thank you, Councillor De Lange. Are these apologies noted?

00:20:05Noted!

00:20:07Thank you.

Official notices

00:20:09Uh we're now on official notices.

00:20:26Um the executive mayor is not in the house, so we will not go over to statement by the executive mayor on official notices. Thank you.

00:20:41Stisi?

00:20:51Um I want you to acknowledge and celebrate with me all the councillors that had their birthdays as well as officials during this period. Um and we want to congratulate you all for growing a year older. I thank you.

Confirmation of minutes

00:21:20We are now on the fourth item and that is confirmation of minutes, and these are minutes of the 9th Special Council Meeting held on the 29th of September 2025, read also together with the minutes of the 33rd Ordinary Meeting held on the 29th and the 30th of September 2025.

00:21:41Thank you, colleagues. We will follow the speaker's list. Councillor Mogapi from the EFF on the minutes.

00:21:51Thank you, Speaker. The EFF, we are fine.

00:21:55Thank you, Councillor Mogapi. Uh Councillor C. Fourie-Shawe from the DA.

00:22:01Thank you, Madam Speaker. The DA believes the minutes are a true reflection of what happened. Thank you.

00:22:06Thank you, Councillor Fourie-Shawe. Uh Councillor N. Mazibuko from the ANC.

00:22:16Morning, Speaker. Morning, councillors. Um just three corrections, Speaker. On page 17,

00:22:26can you just hold on, Councillor Mazibuko? Colleagues on my right-hand side, please. Thank you.

00:22:41Councillor Mazibuko, you can carry on.

00:22:43Thank you, Speaker. Um on page 17, sorry, I'm just finding my space. Um I think I wasn't clear when I It's not meant to be spell show, but spelled. We need to just do the correct spelling. So we just need to change the wording to spelled. And then on page 47,

00:23:15um point number 1.11, if we could just change the wording to read um that Eskom shall restore all road surfaces and all other surface uh no, Eskom shall restore all road surfaces and all other surfaces to the council's satisfaction. And on page 50,

00:23:41uh point number nine, uh if we can just change the word plants uh planes to plants. So it should read that no trees, shrubs, or plants shall be planted directly. Thank you, Speaker.

00:24:00Thank you, colleagues. Can we confirm the minutes as per the amendments that councillor has given us? Thank you.

Questions for oral and written reply and Executive Mayor's question time

00:24:20We now proceed with item 5A, and that is the questions for oral reply of which notice has been given in terms of Rule 105(1) of the Standing Rules and Orders of Council.

00:24:38Thank you, colleagues. There were no questions for oral reply.

00:24:47We move to 5B and those are questions for written reply of which notice has been given in terms of Rule 105(2) of Rule 112(a) and Rule 111(a) of the Standing Rules and Orders of Council.

00:25:13MMC Zungu.

00:25:16Uh greetings, uh Speaker. Uh greetings to the executive mayor in his absentia. Greetings to the MMCs. Uh greetings to the chief whip uh in his absentia, the chair of chairs, Councillor Marema, chairpersons of Section 79, councillors and guests. Uh Speaker, the questions have uh been uploaded uh into the system uh for the responses. Thank you.

00:25:45Thank you so much, um MMC um Zungu. I'm just being distracted with something. Can we go to the

00:26:11Chair of chairs, there were questions to the legislature. Can you respond?

00:26:21Thank you very much. Uh greetings, honourable Speaker. Standing here observing uh protocol as uh required, I would like to indicate that the response to the questions are loaded on the drive, uh the two questions to the legislatures. Thank you.

00:26:44Thank you, um chair of chairs. Next item.

00:26:47We move to 5C, and those are executive mayor's question time of which notice has been given in terms of Rule 112(1) of the Standing Rules and Orders of Council.

00:27:00We don't have Councillor Echeozonjoku, Councillor Belinda. I don't want to butcher.

00:27:12Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm starting to get offended. I'm the only councillor that's been called on my first name, but that's okay. Madam Speaker, I just want to put it on record, we would have asked the mayor's mayor question, but once again, he's the mayor in absentia during the time that we are starting. Thank you so much.

00:27:31Thank you, councillor.

00:27:37We

Tabling of reports and elevation of item 11

00:27:46Uh councillors, we proceed now to recommendations to council.

00:27:52Uh leader of executive business, um can you table the reports from executive?

00:28:00Now, thank you, Speaker. Speaker, I rise to table the items from the executive considered by council. Thank you.

00:28:08Thank you so much, leader of executive business. Um chair of chairs, can you please table the reports from legislature?

00:28:21Uh honourable Speaker, I you know, I thought that the executive would request uh that they deal with the executive items first before we deal with all the oversight or legislature items.

00:28:39Chair, chair of chairs. Can I just um Reports must first be tabled and then we do the other things. You first table the reports.

00:28:51I rise to table the executive sorry, the legislature

00:28:59Councillor Mgcina, please don't confuse our chair of chairs, please. Councillor Christians.

00:29:13No, I would not respond to that, uh Speaker. I rise to table the legislature's report. Thank you.

00:29:19Councillor Christians.

00:29:21Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I thought maybe you'd raise the breach in the rules when the mayor crossed the line while the chair of chairs was speaking. Thank you.

00:29:50Uh colleagues, can we not do that? The hand of the LOB is up, LOEB. We're recognizing you.

00:29:59Now, thank you, Speaker.

00:30:00Speaker, speaker there is a request to elevate item 11, I would appreciate if you could succeed to that request Speaker. Thank you.

00:30:10Thank you, LOGB. They've asked to elevate the item 11, so item 11 has been elevated. MMC Tshwaku, is there something you wanted to say? I saw your hand go up.

00:30:32Thank you very much, Speaker. The Leader of Government Business has covered me. Thank you.

00:30:37Oh, thank you so much. Okay, item 11 has been elevated.

Item 11 introduced and caucus break granted

00:30:44Uh councillors, on item 11 it is the recruitment and appointment process of the City Manager position.

00:30:56Okay, I see two hands, Councillor Rahn on this side, and Councillor Mofokeng on the other side, and then I see, Councillor, sorry, three hands, Councillor Mogapi in that way, Councillor Rahn, Councillor Mofokeng, and then Councillor Mogapi. Colleagues, can we listen to the, to the councillors on the platform.

00:31:21Thank you, Madam Speaker. Two things, if I could please ask that Council Affairs does update their records, I am now Councillor Schrader, not Councillor Rahn anymore. Um so, thank you.

00:31:52Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, colleagues.

00:32:27Thank you. Thank you so very much for the congratulations. Thank you. Um then, Madam Speaker, if we could please ask, the DA caucus would like a 30-minute caucus break, please.

00:32:42Colleagues, colleagues, colleagues. I haven't granted the caucus. I have not granted the caucus.

00:32:56Colleagues. I have not granted the caucus as yet, and I want to say from up here, it was definitely a beautiful picture to see all councillors united in what is, it was really beautiful.

00:33:27We, Councillor Mofokeng and then Councillor Mogapi.

00:33:35No, thanks, Speaker. The ANC was to ask for a caucus. Thanks, we are covered. Thank you.

00:33:39For how long?

00:33:40No, no, they've asked for 30 minutes, we'll use the 30 minutes.

00:33:44Councillor Mogapi.

00:33:45Covered, Speaker.

00:33:47Thank you. So, we'll, we'll grant the 30 minutes. You must be back at at 11:00 sharp. Thank you.

00:41:00isiZulu[inaudible] siyalandelela

00:41:15isiZuluokwamanje [inaudible]

Reconvening after caucus

01:04:29Colleagues, our time has passed for our caucuses. Can we ensure that our that our neighbors or our councillors that sit next to us are in the chamber? Can we settle down?

01:04:55Everybody that asked for caucus, I only see one person that is here that said she was covered. The others that asked for caucus is not here. Councillor Schrader and Councillor Molefe is not here. And can others of us please settle down?

01:05:37We are going to start and we are pleading again, can we be seated? Um Councillor Schrader, can you report back to us so that we start with the business of the day? I said it right.

01:06:00You did say it right. Thank you, Madam Speaker, um and thank you again for the warm congratulations from everybody. Um our caucus has met and we've concluded our business. So, thank you very much for the 30 minutes.

01:06:11Councillor Mogapi, are you fine? You were covered then, are you covered now? You had your caucus, you're covered. Uh Councillor

01:06:22Covered, Speaker.

01:06:23Yes, ma'am. You fine? And then the other councillor also, Councillor Mofokeng, I I suppose that he's also fine. Thank you, colleagues. We'll now go over to the item that we have elevated.

Item 11 debate: smaller parties on the City Manager appointment

01:06:40Once again, councillors, we are on item 11, and that's the recruitment and appointment process of the City Manager position.

01:06:50We are now going to the speakers list. Uh we are going to ask um Councillor F Abdool from UIM, it's the first speaker.

01:07:04Good morning, colleagues. Good morning, Speaker.

01:07:09Speaker, let's be honest. The people of Johannesburg are tired.

01:07:13SesothoRe lapile.

01:07:16We are tired of politics, tired of excuses, tired of watching acting officials come and go while service delivery keeps falling apart. They want stability, not speeches.

01:07:27AfrikaansOns soek orde, nie chaos nie.

01:07:31For too long, the city has been running on temporary arrangements and quick fixes.

01:07:35Afrikaans'n Stad sonder leierskap is soos 'n skip sonder kaptein.

01:07:40We can't keep drifting like this. Today, we've got a chance to bring back some order, to put someone permanent at the helm who can actually who actually knows the system and that makes it work. Yesterday, officials walked out of a meeting, and because there is not not a specific person that we can call on in terms of a city manager, we don't even know where we should report them. And let's be clear, the last process that was all forms and procedures, it never touched the real issue,

01:08:12Afrikaansdie mens agter die CV.

01:08:15It was about ticking boxes, not about looking at capability and performance. It dealt with admin, not credentials. And luckily, this time, the credentials are very up high. The law part was fine, but it missed the person. This vote is not about one party or one side. It's about giving this city a fair shot at stability. The law says we need a permanent city manager.

01:08:41AfrikaansDie wet is nie 'n voorstel of 'n opsie nie, dis 'n moet.

01:08:45And we are and if we are serious about fixing Johannesburg, then we need someone who can lead with consistency and credibility. So, let's not overcomplicate it. Instability has cost residents enough. It's time for discipline. It's time for delivery. It's time for dignity in government. As the United Independent Movement, we support Dr. Floyd Warren Brink, not because of politics, but because it's the practical, lawful, and right thing to do for the people of Johannesburg. I thank you.

01:09:19AfrikaansBaie dankie, Raadslid Abdool.

01:09:24Can we have um Councillor M Cook from GOOD?

01:09:30Morning, uh Madam Speaker. Uh morning, colleagues. Um I rise this morning on behalf of GOOD and the Johannesburg Progressive Caucus to speak on item number 11, the appointment of the City Manager. As uh Councillor Abdool of the UIM has just stated, and she's also a member of the

01:09:56Colleagues, can we also just settle?

01:10:05Speaker, my apologies that my back is I can turn the other way.

01:10:11Switch off the other mic.

01:10:13There we are, Speaker.

01:10:14Thank you.

01:10:15Um as Councillor Abdool has already said, and she also forms part of the Johannesburg Progressive Caucus, the temporary arrangements and acting city managers, the time of that has needs to come to an end. The appointment of a city manager, Speaker, is not a small administrative act. It's a defining decision for Johannesburg's future. This is the person who must turn political intent into operational reality. It's the person who must build a professional, ethical, and efficient administration capable of delivering to every resident in every street of Johannesburg.

01:10:51We welcome the transparency and the procedural integrity reflected in this recruitment process. As we know, this has been a flaw in the past. However, with 108 applications, rigorous shortlisting, formal interviews, and full competency assessments completed, this is how public institutions like the City of Johannesburg starts to rebuild credibility amongst the residents of the city.

01:11:20Speaker, this appointment is not the destination. This is not the end of the road. It is the beginning of accountability. The incoming city manager must lead a professional administration that delivers consistent services, restores financial discipline, and earns the trust of every resident. This council, in turn, must provide strong oversight and ensure that the performance is not just measured, it is felt.

01:11:50It must be felt by the residents. The streets must be cleaner, the infrastructure must function, and responsive governance must be the order of the day. Speaker, let this appointment mark a turning point for Johannesburg, a turning point towards competence, continuity, and credibility in Johannesburg's administration.

01:12:1140 seconds, Councillor.

01:12:12On behalf of the Johannesburg Progressive Caucus and GOOD, I thank you, Speaker.

01:12:17Thank you, Councillor GOOD. Councillor Magwentshu, ATM.

01:12:24Greetings, Speaker. Greetings to fellow councillors. Greetings to the minority governing parties. Speaker, allow me first to congratulate the Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, and the MMC of Group Corporate and Shared Services, Councillor Zungu, for this historic milestone.

01:12:47Councillor um Magwentshu, can you take your seat? Councillor Gwamanda.

01:12:56No, thank you very much, Speaker. I was hoping that you'd recognize me before Councillor Magwentshu spoke because I wanted to register that I am giving him a minute from my speaking time, as well as to Councillor Zigebe, because they speaking before me. Thank you.

01:13:15So you are saying that you won't have speaking time?

01:13:18One minute, one minute.

01:13:23So you're speaking one minute. Thank you. Councillor Magwentshu, you have four minutes. Councillor Zigebe, when you speak, you have four minutes. Thank you very much. Councillor Magwentshu.

01:13:34Greetings, Speaker. Greetings to the fellow councillors. Greetings to the minority governing parties. Speaker, allow me first to congratulate the Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, and the MMC of Group Corporate and Shared Services, Councillor Zungu, for this historic milestone. For almost five years, the City of Johannesburg has operated without a legally appointed city manager.claim

01:14:03This has been a major contributor to the governance and service delivery challenges that have crippled our city. Today, after nine mayors, we finally have a duly appointed city manager. Indeed, this is a milestone that deserves to be acknowledged. Speaker, it is rare in this chamber for parties in government and those in opposition to speak with one voice. Yet, on this matter, we did.claim

01:14:30That unity demonstrated that everyone who truly loves Johannesburg understands that appointing a competent, qualified, and visionary city manager is not about politics, it is about the people. Speaker, the African Transformation Movement is a pro-people movement. We believe governance must translate into real, tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary people. The appointment of a capable city manager is not an end; it is the beginning of rebuilding Johannesburg to serve the unemployed, the poor, the elderly, the small business owner, and the struggling family.

01:15:08This appointment must be matched with programs that respond to the pain of our people, especially amid rising cost of living, unemployment, and economic exclusion that continue to suffocate residents. This appointment will demonstrate to the public that indeed this government takes them seriously. Madam Speaker, this appointment says we take accountability seriously. Madam Speaker, this appointment says we want to deal decisively with lawlessness.emotive

01:15:39Madam Speaker, this appointment says people of Johannesburg have spoken through their duly elected representative, and not even a Fikile Mbalula can suppress their voices. Madam Speaker, this appointment says we are committed to address the issues raised in the Auditor-General's report. Madam Speaker, this appointment says even if you are not ready for the day, it cannot always be night. Indeed, it cannot be business as usual. Peace in our land, peace in our lifetime.emotive

01:16:13Councillors.

01:16:17Councillor Zigebe from UDM.

01:16:30Honourable Speaker, members of council, today marks the culmination of a process that has stretched over eight long months, months of acting appointments, legal uncertainty, and administrative limbo.claim

01:16:43Councillor Zigebe, just hold on. Colleagues, can we please respect the chamber? Can we please do that? We have visitors in the gallery. Thank you, Councillor Zigebe.

01:17:03Thank you, Speaker. Today marks the culmination of a process that has stretched over eight long months, months of acting appointments, legal uncertainty, and an administration in limbo. The time has come for this council to bring finality, to restore stability, and to reaffirm leadership that can anchor the City of Johannesburg with competence and integrity. This appointment is not about politics. It is about principle.

01:17:30It is about ensuring that the engine room of the city, the administration, is led by a person of a caliber, experience, and integrity. Dr. Floyd Brink has demonstrated all these qualities and more. When the city found itself without consistent political leadership, when two executive mayors came and went in 2021, when the pandemic tested every system of governance, when our communities faced unrest and fear, it was Dr. Brink who held the line.claim

01:18:01He provided continuity, steadiness, and assurance that service delivery would not collapse. His leadership during those critical months was not accidental. It was a product of years of institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of municipal governance. This is a man who has lived the legislative frameworks we often only cite. His familiarity with the Municipal Systems Act and the discipline with which he has navigated the delicate boundary between political authority and administrative duty have kept this institution afloat.

01:18:37Colleagues, let us be honest, the politicization of the administration and the factional battles for the control of this office have cost this city dearly. Our residents do not feel politics; they feel potholes, power outages, broken sewer lines, and poor service. They deserve an administration insulated from political turmoil, led by a city manager whose focus is singular service to the people of Johannesburg. Therefore, today we must rise above partisanship. Let us remind ourselves that the residents who sent us here did not elect us to perpetuate uncertainty.

01:19:11They entrusted us to govern. I appeal to all political parties, including those outside the coalition, the Democratic Alliance, ActionSA, ACDP, and Freedom Front Plus, to join hands in the national interest of Johannesburg. Appointing Dr. Floyd Brink is not an act of factional loyalty; it is an act of governance maturity. It is a vote for competence, for stability, and for continuity. Let history record that on this day, this council chose certainty over chaos, merit over manipulation, and service over politics. I thank you.

01:19:49Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Harris from the ACDP.

01:19:57Good morning, Madam Speaker, the Executive Mayor, MMCs, councillors, visitors, residents of Johannesburg. I rise to speak on item 11, the report on the appointment of Floyd Brink as City Manager. The report indicates that the process was rigorous and fair. The credibility of the interviewing panel cannot be challenged.

01:20:23The panel was strengthened even further by the inclusion of Professor Trevor Fowler, who no doubt would have posed searching questions. Competing candidates, including my favorite, the former Managing Director of JCPZ, were strong in their own right. The panel deliberated and found Dr. Brink to be the leading candidate, hence the recommendation to appoint him as City Manager. Every political party will have its own view, some positive and some negative. However, all of us collectively must make a decision that is in the best interest of Johannesburg and not of our own factions.

01:21:01The city needs an incumbent who is experienced and understands the systems and understands the dynamics of the city. We need stability at this crucial stage of this administration, and the appointment of Dr. Brink will provide this stability. The ACDP supports this report. Thank you.

01:21:20Thank you, Councillor Harris.

Item 11 debate: FF+, IFP, EFF, Al Jama-ah and PA

01:21:23AfrikaansRaadslid Boer, Vryheidsfront Plus.

01:21:27AfrikaansMore, Mevrou die Speaker.

01:21:29Um morning, fellow councillors. I rise on item 11, the appointment of a city manager, which is a long overdue appointment. Um Floyd Brink has been on and off city manager for the past three years in difficult positions, um difficult circumstances, acting and then not acting and so on. But unfortunately, um under his leadership for the past three years, the city has gone nowhere, and if it did go anywhere, it went downwards instead of upwards.

01:21:59So we uh Dr. Brink is not our personal preference candidate, but the process was followed, and we got no doubt that the process was followed correctly. Um yes, the report leaked out into the media, and maybe that was a good thing that it for a change leaked out into the media, because here we can see clearly that the scores that were given to the various candidates um are based on political preferences and not on the qualifications, where one politician gives a top score to one candidate, then another politician gives the lowest score to the same candidate, um and vice versa.

01:22:40So we can clearly see, unfortunately I have to say this, that politicians cannot be trusted to on these appointments because they are not unbiased. Um and it is very strange to see that from 108 people that applied for this position, um 10 were shortlisted, and under these 10 is a person with the name of Zuler um ag, sorry, um Helen Botes. Um

01:23:05Madam Speaker, Helen Botes has got a history of mismanaging JPC, and she's even shortlisted to be a candidate to become the city manager. Um I do not understand these processes. Madam Speaker, our city needs people that can lead with honesty and integrity. And I don't know if part of the scoring is to test the honesty and the integrity of our senior managers. Um but the process was followed.

01:23:35Dr. Brink came out as the number one candidate, um and the process needs to be followed. We have to appoint him, and I really sincerely hope that Floyd Brink will, in his new term, hopefully in a permanent position, do what is good for the city. Um we do not support personally his appointment,

01:23:54Afrikaans36 sekonde.

01:23:56so we going to abstain from this item. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

01:24:00AfrikaansBaie dankie.

01:24:02Councillor Manganyi from the IFP.

01:24:09Thank you, Speaker. Sorry. Madam Speaker, honourable councillors, members of the public,

01:24:20TshivendaNdi matsheloni.

01:24:23The Inkatha Freedom Party rise to express its support for the appointment of Mr. Floyd Brink as the City Manager of Johannesburg. The selection process has been thorough and transparent, and the results speak for themselves. Mr. Brink ranked first in the interview process with a score of 114, while the second candidate scored 104, a 10-point difference that clearly distinguishes him as most suitable candidate for this critical position.claim

01:24:55Mr. Brink's qualifications and experience further reinforce this decision. He holds an MBA and is currently pursuing his PhD, demonstrating not only his academic excellence, but also his continuous commitment to learning and professional growth. Madam Speaker, with over 20 years of experience, including 16 years in senior strategic positions, Mr. Brink brings a wealth of institutional knowledge, leadership capacity, and governance insights.claim

01:25:26What makes his profile truly exceptional is that he previously served as a city manager, and in that role, he performed exceptionally well. Madam Speaker, sorry. Okay. He performed exceptionally well. Madam Speaker, we also note with confidence that Mr. Brink successfully passed all the competency and screening assessments as prescribed under Regulation 14(1) of the Regulations on Appointment and Conditions of Employment of Senior Managers.

01:26:07And as the IFP, we believe that leadership stability at administrative level is critical for the good governance and improved service delivery. Mr. Brink's appointment presents an opportunity to restore trust, enhance efficiency, and strengthen the institutional framework of the City of Johannesburg. We, as the IFP, we therefore extend our full support to Mr. Brink and commit to working collectively with him to ensure that he leads, manages, and transforms municipal governance in alignment with the city's strategic vision and the best interest of our residents.

01:26:4130 seconds.

01:26:45TshivendaDzangano la IFP li a tikedza u tholwa ha Vho Brink. Ndi a livhuwa. Aa!

01:26:52TshivendaNdaa.

01:26:56Councillor MMC Tshwaku from the EFF.

01:27:03No, thank you very much, Speaker. May I approach the podium? I feel inspired today.

01:27:10It's your choice.

01:27:12May I speak from the podium? Sorry? Yeah.

01:27:15You can come. You must walk fast because one minute from there to here. A burning desire.claim

01:27:32Thank you very much, uh Speaker. Uh good morning to the Executive Mayor in absentia, to the caucus of the EFF, the Whip, and all the councillors that are here, Chair of Chairs, and everyone that's here today. Honourable Speaker, today marks a proud moment for Johannesburg and a pivotal turning point for the city. And on behalf of the Economic Freedom Fighters, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Floyd Warren Brink on his appointment as the City Manager.

01:28:07Now you are not in the brink of entering; you are entering. This is more than a change in title; it is the restoration of the stability at the core of the administration. Dr. Brink, you bring a rare and formidable combination of expertise in finance and built environment. Honourable Speaker, it is uncommon to find an individual who seamlessly blends financial acumen with engineering proficiency.

01:28:37Dr. Brink holds an MBA and has recently earned his DBA. Now he's been called Dr. Brink. He's a professional accountant and a member of the South African Institute of Professional Accountants, while maintaining additional affiliations in built engineering and project sectors, reflecting his true multi-disciplinary profile. Your leadership is underscored by tangible, measurable outcomes and enhanced audit results, increased capital budget absorption, accelerated delivery of infrastructure and public works programs, and strengthened governance.

01:29:20It must be noted, Honourable Speaker, that Dr. Brink steered the city through profound tragedy in 2021, when the city lost two executive mayors in quick succession. Under his steady guidance, the administration did not falter, relapse, or collapse; it endured and advanced. Your understanding of the critical interface between political offices and administration arm is exemplary. In your eyes, there is no one-seat party; all are treated with equal respect and professionalism, fostering unity across the political spectrum. Dr. Brink has spearheaded the city's strategic response to natural disasters,

01:30:00this utility response for City Power and Joburg Water laying the groundwork for substantial investments in the 2026 financial year. Among other key achievements, you secured approval for comprehensive turnaround plans for both entities, establish a disciplinary board to uphold accountability and strengthen intergovernmental collaboration to tackle pressing urban challenges such as the bad buildings, illegal mining activities by zama-zamas.

01:30:28Dr. Brink has already demonstrated in the most challenging circumstances that leadership is defined not by politics, but by commitment to the people, performance, and principle. You have navigated this city through adversity with calm, clarity and courage. You have built trust where it had eroded. You have ensured that the essential services, such as electricity, water, municipal operations

01:30:5540 seconds MMC.

01:30:58continued uninterrupted even amid political turbulence. Today, the council has made the right decision. Dr. Brink, you are now bearing the aspirations of millions, from Sandton to Soweto, from Alex to Orange Farm. They do not seek miracles. They seek a city that functions effectively, and you have repeatedly proven yourself the leader capable of delivering that. We pledge our unwavering support as you rebuild the administration, restore accountability, accelerate service delivery.

01:31:2510 seconds

01:31:26We hold you accountable to the highest standard. Welcome, City Manager. Joburg is ready, the people stand behind you. Now let us get to work. Congratulations, Dr. Brink. This city is yours, lead, and ours is to build together. I thank you, Honourable Thank you.

01:31:42Thank you, MMC. Councillor Gwamanda, 1 minute.

01:31:55AfrikaansBaie dankie,

01:31:57Madam Speaker. Mine is

01:32:00Just hold on, Councillor Gwamanda. Can we get to settle on my left-hand side, especially on the top there? Thank you. Councillor Gwamanda.

01:32:13AfrikaansBaie dankie,

01:32:15Madam Speaker. Good morning to yourself, once again. Good morning to the Executive Mayor and the Members of the Mayoral Committee. I rise to speak on the recruitment and appointment process of the City Manager. Madam Speaker, I just want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work that this Executive has done.

01:32:41By enduring and protecting the integrity of a cumbersome and a protracted recruitment process much anticipated in the country because of the stature of the City of Johannesburg, so I want to congratulate them. Madam Speaker, I equally want to congratulate

01:33:047 seconds.

01:33:05the incoming City Manager, Dr. Floyd Brink, on behalf of Council. Make us proud and let us restore our city. Thank you very much.

01:33:18Thank you so much, Councillor Gwamanda. MMC Kunene from the PA. Thank you, MMC.

01:33:32Let me recognize you and salute you, Madam Speaker. The Mayor in his absentia, the Chief Whip of Council, the Chief Whip of the fastest growing political party in South Africa, the Patriotic Alliance, and the Joburg 10. I am the 11th one. Madam Speaker, I think this would be a very emotional time for the City Manager.

01:34:04Winston Churchill once said, "If you are going through hell, keep going." And Floyd Brink, Dr. Floyd Brink, the emphasis must be there. Dr. Floyd Brink is an example of what Winston Churchill said. Despite the efforts of the opposition, rightly or wrongly so, to challenge a processemotive

01:34:34that was to appoint him, he kept going. He did not give up. Arnold Schwarzenegger once said, "Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength." Dr. Floyd Brink is an example of that. He has worked with all political parties before the unfortunate happened.

01:35:05He has proven that he is not a factional City Manager. He is a City Manager who gives an ear even to the opposition. He's a City Manager who has the best interest of this city at heart. And Madam Speaker, even those who did not want him before could not resist, but to score him high. And they scored him to be number two.emotive

01:35:33And when number one fell off and he became number one, they decided to frustrate and sought to destroy him. But because

01:35:45MMC, just hold on. There's a councillor that's screaming and giving funny remarks, whilst the MMC is on the podium. Can you please stop? And it's there from ActionSA side. Can you please stop? Can you please stop? Thank you, MMC.

01:36:04Madam Speaker, when your name is supposed to define who you are and you are actionless, you behave like that. Madam Speaker, today marks a historical day, and I want to appreciate those who have abstained, instead of standing in the way of progress. This city needs a City Manager

01:36:32that is full-time, that will be in office, that will be accountable, and respond to the challenges that this city is facing.

01:36:4115 seconds.

01:36:42And as the Patriotic Alliance,

01:36:44Afrikaansons baiza nie.

01:36:46isiZuluAsibhayizi.

01:36:47SesothoHa re baize.

01:36:49We are not baizing. We support the appointment of Dr. Floyd

01:36:56Your time is up, MMC.

01:36:57Brink, the man who just got a PhD. Damn,

01:37:01Sesothohlo e bonolo.

Item 11: ANC support and MMC response

01:37:07Councillor Nguse from the ANC.

01:37:19Thank you, Speaker. I think, Speaker, it is fair that we do congratulate Dr. Floyd for obtaining his PhD. Speaker, let me greet you. Let me greet fellow councillors, residents of the City of Johannesburg. Today, we make a decision that goes to the heart of whether the city can deliver, not tomorrow or next year, but now.

01:37:49Johannesburg cannot be governed on acting arrangements. The law is clear and simple. The city must have a permanent, competent accounting officer, who translates the will of council into results on the ground. That is why we rise in support of Dr. Floyd Warren Brink as a City Manager. He is not a stranger to this institution. He has already carried the weight on this office, leading the administration

01:38:20as a Chief Operations Officer, Acting City Manager, and City Manager with a record of holding the center when the politics were noisy and the work had to be stabilized. He brings a rare combination of skills that the city needs, financial management, strategic leadership, and a built environment expertise to turn policy into infrastructure.claim

01:38:50Beyond experience, the facts speak satisfactorily. In the recruitment process concluded for today's sitting, he was ranked first with a panel score of 114 in a field that started with 108 applications, and the top four candidates, including him, pitched as a competent on the national prescribed senior management competencies. This is not a sentiment. It is the official outcome of a stringent process.claim

01:39:23He's a doctor and a seasoned public servant with over two decades in government, including more than 16 years at a senior management level. His academic path and professional track record are backed by hard credentials that matter in this portfolio, MBA, BCom Financial Management, and a National Diploma in Engineering Studies, the precise blend that allows him to read the numbersclaim

01:39:54and fix the pipes. He has also been security vetted at a top secret level by the State Security Agency, the standard of integrity this office requires. Colleagues, the role we are filling is defined in law. The Municipal Systems Act and the National Regulations on Senior Managers requires a permanent appointment, competency assessment, and full compliance.claim

01:40:24This process and its recommendations are precisely within that legislative framework. The appointment before us meets requirements and gives Johannesburg the stability to plan multi-year infrastructure, enforce performance, and restore public trust. We have seen his work here already, stable governance systems, stronger audit and risk practices, and improved coordination across departments and entities when it mattered most.

01:40:54The panel outcome, the competency confirmation, and his track record in this very city tell the same story, capability with continuity. The African National Congress supports Dr. Floyd Warren Brink as the City Manager. Thank you very much.

01:41:12Thank you, Councillor Nguse. You are the only one that saved time. MMC Zungu.

01:41:29Greetings to yourself, Speaker. Greetings to all councillors. Speaker, we have noted all the inputs, and also want to thank all the councillors that have made their contributions. But Speaker, I think as we welcome the appointment of the City Manager, we hope that

01:42:02what the city has been doing of late, the city has been doing very well, and we are hoping that the arrival of Floyd Brink will add more value to what the city has been doing. We have recently been given a vote of confidence by Moody's, the rating agency, citing the fact that the city is doing very well. So we are hopeful that this is going to continue without any hindrances.claim

01:42:31Speaker, we must at times do away with these divisive measures that seeks to put Brink between parties. No one owns Brink. As much as one would want to sing for his supper, let's not mislead. We are grateful and we appreciate, and we welcome the appointment of Floyd Brink,

01:43:01Speaker. And we then would request council to note the report. Thank you.

Item 11 vote and DA abstention

01:43:08Thank you, MMC. Colleagues, the recommendations are on pages 11.7 to pages 11.8. Is the item agreed to?

01:43:24Agreed.

01:43:30I'm not sure right at the back, on my right here, I have two hands that's up, or is it one person stretching? Thank you. Councillor Christians.

01:43:46Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, seeing that there's nobody objecting, can you please note the abstention of the DA? Thank you.

01:43:55I've noted the abstention of the DA. Councillor, and we did not vote. Councillor De Lange.

01:44:12Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, if we are not going for the vote, let me just ask you that, we are not going to vote on the item. Are we, or are we not?

01:44:22The yeses had it. There was no nos. The yeses had it, and Councillor Christians stood up and said they are not for it, and in your speech or in the speech of the person that spoke on Freedom Front Plus, you also said you are not agreeing with the item.

01:44:42Thank you, Madam Speaker. Then for the minutes and for the record, please note our abstention on this item. Thank you.

01:44:47Thank you so much. The yeses have it. Councillor Christians, no, I'm done. Councillor Christians.

01:45:02Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I did not say we're not participating. I said please note that the DA will be abstaining from the vote. Thank you.

01:45:14Councillor Christians, I don't know how to say it more clearer, but the DA abstaining has been noted. Thank you so much. The item was carried, the yeses had it. Thank you so much. We're going to the next item.

Point of safety on broken window

01:45:40Councillors, we resume with item 1 from the recommendations.

01:45:45Madam Speaker.

01:45:46I'm not sure, Councillor Rohlssen, why is the hand up because I've already closed the item. No, no, no, uh-uh, uh-uh, colleagues.

01:45:58It's not the item, Madam Speaker.

01:46:01Can you please stand when you address the Speaker?

01:46:03My apologies, Madam Speaker. It's just on the point of safety. I did mention in the previous meeting the concern I have regarding the window, and I asked for the guests to be moved to a place of safety in case that broken window collapses. Can that area, the people are sitting below the broken window, Madam Speaker. I humbly ask that that area below the window be cordoned off until that window

01:46:38Your point has been heard, Councillor. There has been adjustments made to where they are sitting, and we have ensured that there is nothing will happen there. Thank you so much.

01:46:50Thank you, Madam Speaker.

01:46:53Can we go back to our agenda?

Item 1: Grant funding for Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project

01:46:58Councillors, back on item 1, and that is acceptance of grant funding of €27.5 million from Invest International and budget facility for infrastructure of 1.6 billion from the National Treasury for the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project.

01:47:21ActionSA, Councillor N Masuku, are you in the house? Thank you, Ma'am.

01:47:32Thank you, Speaker. Greetings to all, the Executive Mayor, Fabulous 44, Members of the Mayoral Committee, guests in the gallery, the most important, residents of the City of Johannesburg. Speaker, I rise to speak on item 1. Madam Speaker, ActionSA welcomes the grant funding of €27.5 million from the Invest International, which seeks to address the city waste management challenges.claim

01:48:01These challenges are critical juncture due to a imminent lack of landfill space and increasing population, which continue to be another factor contributing to the crisis. Madam Speaker, this project seeks to create 2,000 jobs during the construction of 609 jobs during operations. ActionSA is calling for strict priority to be given to South Africans, andclaim

01:48:32that not to illegal foreigners.

01:48:36isiZuluAbahambe

01:48:37nationals must benefit from this initiative. As ActionSA, we've been advocating for this implementation of the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology, which is Kya Sands, for example, and we continue to support such initiative. Thank you.

01:48:59Thank you, Councillor Masuku. Councillor Boer, Freedom Front Plus.

01:49:05AfrikaansDankie, Mevrou die Speaker.

01:49:07Freedom Front welcomes this project. It's an excellent project, and we need to look at alternative waste management. Our landfill sites are getting full, and we really hope that this project can come off the ground. It has been discussed, and it has been open for public participation. We welcome the overseas grant fundingclaim

01:49:34of €27.5 million, as well. And I really hope that we learn the lessons from other countries because this is a very specialized project. It's not a project that every person can build and establish. We have seen in the report that the similar project was done in Ethiopia, and that one did not work, as well. So I really hope we, with our overseas partners, that we can build here a state-of-the-art flagshipclaim

01:50:06project that will benefit the city, and that will reduce our waste disposal. And I see there were concerns about the waste pickers, but they will still be in place, although this project will go ahead. So we really welcome this project and we welcome the partnership of an overseas partner, as well, also to do oversight to see that the money is very well spent. Thank you very much.claim

01:50:35Can the councillor of ActionSA please switch off that mic? The one that's the mic is on will know. At the back. No, colleagues, I did not see it. I was actually now given an indication that it's on. Can you please switch off the mic? Thank you. Councillor Cook from GOOD.

01:51:02Thank you, Speaker. I rise today on behalf of GOOD and the Johannesburg Progressive Caucus to speak on item 1. Speaker, today Council is asked to endorse one of the Johannesburg's most ambitious environmental projects, the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology initiative. On paper, it promises to turn half a million tons of waste a year into renewable energy. It's set to create over 2,000 jobs and inject 20 billion rand into our economy over time.claim

01:51:35Speaker, this is the kind of innovation that we should be pursuing, using science, technology, and global partnerships to solve local problems. But ambition alone will not save the city, Speaker. Integrity and oversight will. We welcome the generous support from Invest International and the National Treasury, but every cent must be spent transparently, and every promise must translate into visible benefit for the residents of Johannesburg.

01:52:07Cleaner streets, more jobs, and affordable services. Waste to energy must not become another waste of public money. The GOOD Party, therefore, calls for clear performance contracts, citizen oversight, and regular public reporting to ensure this project remains a success story, not a scandal in waiting. Johannesburg is running out of landfill space, and it's running out of public trust. This project can be the moment that we rebuild both of those by proving that sustainable development can also mean

01:52:39accountable development. Let's make this a turning point for our city, a future where waste powers progress, not corruption. I thank you.

01:52:50Thank you, Councillor Cook. Can we have Councillor Rohlssen from the ACDP?

01:52:59Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I greet you all in the name that is above all names, the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen, amen. Greetings, Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor in absentia, MMCs, councillors, distinguished guests, and residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I rise on item 1, the acceptance of the grant funding of €27.5 million from Invest Internationalclaim

01:53:30and budget facility for infrastructure of 1.6 billion rand from the National Treasury for the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology, AWTT, project. Madam Speaker, the ACDP welcomes partners between the City of Johannesburg and the private sector, corporate business, and financial institutions. Their contribution by way of grants and investmentsclaim

01:54:02are very welcome and much appreciated. The ACDP is, however, very concerned that these funds, often when they are received, these do not reach their intended destination, as misappropriation of funds and corruption are still the order of the day. Madam Speaker, the ACDP is not convinced that the critical waste management challenge that the city is facing is only due to rapid population growth,

01:54:35but is also due to a lack of effective maintenance and continuous upgrading of the city's aging infrastructure. This, again, is due to corruption, misappropriation of funds, and a lack of will.

01:54:58Use the one next to you, Councillor Rohlssen.

01:55:02Thank you, Madam Speaker. Apologies for that. And a lack of will. The residents of Johannesburg deserve better. God bless South Africa, God bless the sovereign State of Israel. I thank you.

01:55:16Thank you, Councillor Rohlssen. From the DA, Councillor Sekhu. Can we please ensure that our mics are off? Let's not play with the mics, please. Councillor Sekhu.

01:55:30Greetings, Speaker. Greetings, councillors, guests in the gallery, and the residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I rise to express our concerns as the Democratic Alliance about this report. First, can the MMC confirm if the grant funding have been received already? And if so, just to take us into confidence that the measures that will be taken to make sure that the funds go to the intended project.

01:56:01Secondly, the report that we have received lacks critical details, key information, and the involvement of other key players in the project. Hence, this information could have been supplied at the Section 79 Committee, but this report was never presented at the committee for proper scrutiny. Bypassing our committees undermines accountability, transparency, and public confidence in this council.

01:56:31We owe our residents better. The Democratic Alliance requests that this report be sent back to Section 79 Committee for clarity and scrutiny. We will note the report, given our concerns due to the omission of the Section 79. Thank you, Speaker.

01:56:47Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Mkasi from the EFF.

01:56:55Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to the leader of the EFF caucus, Commissar Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, our most progressive Chief Whip, Thabiso Mogapi, fellow progressive councillors, and the residents of City of Johannesburg,

01:57:09isiZulusanibonani.

01:57:10Speaker, you often hear us refer to one of our cardinal pillars, number 3, building state and government capacity, which will lead to abolishment of tenders. Today, we aim to explain the concept of building internal state capacity. This approach focuses on enhancing the capability of government department and entities, so that they can provide services independently without relying on tenders. By doing so, also help protect workers from the exploitative practices commonly associated

01:57:40with tenderpreneurs, who profit from labor exploitation. Instead, workers will be directly employed by the municipality, ensuring they receive the full benefit of their employment. Building internal state capacity also reduce the need for unnecessary tender related to our primary goal, effective service delivery. For instance, entity like Johannesburg Water will be able to develop water treatment plant without depending on expensive tenders, which are often given to less competent operators

01:58:10through shady means. Building internal state capacity not only lowers cost, but also improves service delivery, allowing municipal entities to focus on providing quality services rather than generating profit. We will continue to educate the public about the benefit they stand to gain from an EFF government. Speaker, we have now reached a moment where all public representatives must wake up and fulfill their oversight roles without fail. The Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project has now arrived as a solution to the pressing issue of landfills

01:58:40that have reached the end of their lifespan, or have very limited time left. The construction of this plant will create job opportunity for approximately 2,000 residents. Once operational, the project is expected to generate a total GDP impact of 20.3 billion over 25 years and contribute to the circular economy, local energy generation, employment stimulation, and infrastructure investment. Additionally, it diverts waste from landfills, minimize environmental

01:59:10and health risk, produces energy and fuel, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, recovers valuable materials, such as metal, glass, and organic matter, and minimize methane emissions from landfills, thereby reducing our carbon footprint. Speaker, since this project is funded through grants that came with condition, we urge our official to allocate all funds strictly for the intended purposes and to refrain from diverting them. We do not want to witness another series of incomplete projects, as we currently

01:59:41have many that are stuck due to financial mismanagement. Transparency and accountability will be paramount, and we will ensure that you are monitored regularly to account for this project. All grant must be spent in full within the designated time frame to avoid financial consequences that could delay the progress. When we say

02:00:00If the grant must be used in full, it will not mean it should be spent on unnecessary items that may be overpriced just for the sake of spending the funds. The way money is spent should correspond directly to the work being done on the ground. Speaker, this is the project for the City of Johannesburg that must benefit its residents. Comrades, this is not an opportunity for self-enrichment. It is an opportunity to build a facility that will benefit the majority of our people. No one should attempt

02:00:27to claim ownership of this project. It belongs to the community, not any individual or political party. A project that does not benefit the community is not a true community project and should not exist. In closing, Speaker, EFF, we take to heart the lesson that political power without economic emancipation is meaningless. We are inspired by ideals that promote and practice genuine forms of political leadership, understanding

02:00:52that political leadership at any level is about services, not an opportunity for self-gratification and self-enrichment. Speaker, the EFF Speaker, as the EFF, we welcome the report.

02:01:08Thank you, Councillor. Um Councillor Madiba from the ANC.

02:01:24Uh thank you, Speaker. Uh greetings to you, Madam Speaker. Greetings to the Executive Mayor in absentia, the Chief Whip, Chair of Chairs, members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors and residents of Johannesburg.

02:01:42On behalf of the African National Congress caucus, we rise to express our firm support for Item 1 before this council, both relating to the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project, also known as the Waste-to-Energy project. This report represents a bold and progressive step in the city's effort to deliver on our mandate of sustainable development,claim

02:02:10environmental justice and economic inclusion. They are proof that the Johannesburg under the ANC leadership continues to plan, invest and deliver responsibly for its people. Speaker, Johannesburg faces an urgent challenge. Our landfill sites are almost full with less than two years of airspace remaining.claim

02:02:34The city generates over 1.6 million tons of waste every year, and that figure keeps rising as our population grows. Without intervention, we risk an environmental crisis, polluted air, contaminated land, and escalating waste disposal costs.claim

02:02:57That is why the progressive administration has taken decisive action to convert waste into energy, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to create jobs while cleaning our city. The AWTT project is a flagship intervention in this regard. This will treat half a million of tons of waste per annum,claim

02:03:21generate about 28 megawatts of new renewable electricity and create more than 2,000 jobs during construction and operation. This is not only an environmental programme, but also a developmental and economic project that speaks directly to the principles of Freedom Charter, where it says the people shall share in the country's wealth.claim

02:03:45Madam Speaker, this item requests this council to approve the acceptance of the two major grants that will make the project financially viable and affordable to the city. First, the grant of 27.5 million euros, which amounts to R550 million

02:04:07from Invest International, a Dutch development financial institution. Secondly, a 1.6 billion allocation from the National Treasury's Budget Facility for Infrastructure. In addition, the city itself will contribute 400 million from its capital budget.

02:04:29Together, these resources close the affordability gap and reduce gate fee from R942 per ton to around 375 to 400 per ton. That means the project now is sustainable and affordable without burdening residents and ratepayers.

02:04:53This is responsible governance in action, the ANC government mobilizing both international partnership and national fiscal support to invest in infrastructure that benefits all our people. It also shows confidence in the city's capacity to deliver, confidence from both National Treasury and our international partners.

02:05:18The report further empowers the City Manager to finalize the funding agreement with the Infrastructure Fund, ensuring transparency, proper oversight and ring-fenced project accounts. Through this Item 1, we secure the money, and when we secure the money, then we secure the future of our people.

02:05:40With that said, the ANC would then like us to approve this item. Thank you.

02:05:45Thank you, Councillor. MMC Masuku.

02:05:54Thank you very much, Speaker. Good morning to you, fellow councillors, the Executive Mayor, Chief Whip, Chair of Chairs, MMCs. Speaker, I would like to thank the councillors for their comments. I have listened, and I think what is important for us is to appreciate that this project

02:06:20comes with huge social benefits, job creation, cleaner streets, and as well as obviously looking into the glue priorities of accelerated service delivery. I just want to address the concern through you, Speaker, from Councillor Sekhu, if I'm pronouncing it correctly.

02:06:41Because we can't divert grant funding is exactly that, it's a grant meant to come through and do that specific project. In fact, we, even in the city, we ring-fence what is meant for a particular grant to do that. So that can't be a reason for you not to support the grant.

02:07:09The report says we are asking that you accept the grants. Therefore, it means that if we must take grant funding from institutions and take them to Section 79, the city will never function. The city will never progress. We can't because that's why there's an executive, that's why there are delegations, so that then the Mayoral Committee comes to council and presents through obviously led by the Executive Mayor, presentsclaim

02:07:37a request to receive a grant, the same way we do receive HIV and AIDS grants. We don't have to go to Section 79 to receive a grant. However, Section 79 has every right to monitor all the points that were raised by councillors. Is the grant being used? So the Finance Section 79 Committee has that responsibility.

02:08:02Even the EISD Section 79 can do the same, to say is the grant funding being utilized for what it was meant for? Is this job creation, as Councillor Masuku from ActionSA through you, Speaker, was raising issues of ensuring that jobs benefit South Africans? That is the role of Section 79. That is oversight,claim

02:08:25but we can't do oversight on acceptance of a grant, and that grant is actually going to benefit all of us. And I think the for me, we must appreciate that this is like a blended it's a blended finance model. Councillor Councillor Madiba indicated that the city will also be investingclaim

02:08:50over and above Invest International and BFI that are contributing funds. So we're going to just have under 6 billion of funds that are going to work on this AWTT project, and we really ask council to approve this project, Madam Speaker, because it is on a well-founded framework for the city, and it is actually a decisive step

02:09:15towards a greener and a more financially sustainable Johannesburg. And the project not only addresses the immediate landfill capacity issues, but it also promotes renewable energy generation, green job creation, and climate resilience. And we ask council to accept and approve this grant. Thank you.

02:09:37Thank you, MMC Masuku. Um, councillors, the recommendations are on page 1.5. Is the item agreed to? Thank you. Next item, STC.

Item 2: Outcome of 60-day public notice on the AWTT project

02:09:53We proceed with Item 2, and that's to notify council of the outcome of the 60 days public notice for the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project under public-private partnerships.

02:10:06Thank you so much. Councillor Cook from GOOD.

02:10:11Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, just on a lighter note before I start, if I can make a plea with you, if you do have a spare pen in your office, to please give it to Councillor Pietersen, because he felt the need to tell Carte Blanche that he hasn't received a pen. So, if you have one, please. Speaker, I rise today on Item 2. Uh Johannesburg currently produces more waste every dayclaim

02:10:37than it can bury. Within two years, our landfill space will run out. That is not an abstract statistic; it is a looming environmental, financial, and public health emergency. The Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project offers a real solution, turning half a million tons of waste into clean, renewable energyclaim

02:11:00while creating thousands of jobs and cutting methane emissions. Speaker, the results of the public participation process are very clear. Residents understand the urgency and support a more sustainable, circular approach to waste. GOOD welcomes this progress. But as we move toward a public-private partnership, our duty is to ensure this project serves the public good,

02:11:25not public profit, not private profit. The people of Johannesburg must see this not just as an energy project, but as a social contract, one that respects workers, protects communities, and keeps our city clean. GOOD, therefore, supports the continuation of this project with one clear message: transparency, accountability,

02:11:48and equity must guide every decision from this point forward. If we get this right, Speaker, Johannesburg will lead the continent in green innovation. If we get it wrong, we will simply turn waste into another form of corruption. Let's prove, Speaker, that this city can do this. We can do better for our people, for our planet,

02:12:12for our future, and for our children's future. I thank you, Speaker.

02:12:16Thank you, Councillor Cook. Councillor Masuku from ActionSA.

02:12:30Greetings again, Speaker, the Executive Mayor of sorry, the Executive Mayor, the distinguished members of Mayoral Committee, the Fabulous 44, fellow councillors in the house, and the residents of the City of Johannesburg. Speaker, I rise to speak on Item 2. Madam Speaker, ActionSA notes and welcomes the amendments of the City of Johannesburg Waste Management

02:12:55By-laws, which are aimed to strengthen the regulation of the waste management to protect the health of our people and safeguard our environment. We welcome these amendments, Madam Speaker, as they are aligned with what we stand for as a party. ActionSA firmly believes that

02:13:20as South Africans, we have an equitable Sorry, Speaker.

02:13:32Councillor Masuku, are you trying to navigate through your notes?

02:13:38Thank you, Speaker. Madam Speaker, waste management is one of the inescapable challenges of our time. Wherever the waste is produced, it must be managed responsibly with due consideration of its potential environmental impact. Effective waste management

02:14:04It helps us to prevent unnecessary disposal, reduce environmental damage, and protect the health and well-being of our communities. Therefore, the city must implement strong and effective measures to ensure the proper management and disposal of all waste materials. Madam Speaker, as ActionSA, we believe this move is in line

02:14:25with our party policy of the EISD function, which is centred on addressing the infrastructure and maintenance backlog, professionalising its management, and expanding core services like waste collection to all communities. In conclusion, Madam Speaker,

02:14:46ActionSA notes and supports the report. I thank you.

02:14:50Thank you, Councillor Masuku. Councillor Harris, ACDP.

02:14:58Uh greetings, Madam Speaker, once again. I rise to speak to Item 2, the report on the outcome of the 60 days public notice for the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology. While the report, notably Annexure C, provides insightful questions and answers, there are a few questions that remain unanswered. Even though landfill space is estimated to be exhausted within the next two years,claim

02:15:26the apparent lack of urgency in implementing this ground-breaking initiative is alarming. There is insufficient evidence to indicate that separation at source, an option suggested by a respondent, will have a viable impact on the 1.6 million tons of municipal solid waste generated by the city and the 500,000claim

02:15:50tons in the Robinson catchment area. Very few responses from the public are indicated. Waste pickers are concerned about their income streams, and a few residents are concerned about the effect on the environment. There is no input in the process by potential private participants, and whilst Robinson Deep is the preferred site, there is no input by residents trapped in the gripclaim

02:16:18of Goudkoppies landfill site and the Marie Louise landfill site. The ACDP welcomes this report. We are disheartened, though, that this whole waste-to-energy initiative is a feeling-out process rather than a holistic development process to deal with the entire 1.6 million tons of waste. The ACDP notes this report, and I thank you.

02:16:40Thank you, Councillor Harris. Um Councillor Sekhu from the DA.

02:16:51Thank you, Speaker. Again, the DA has some concerns regarding this report. Out of millions of residents of Johannesburg, we have received only 24 comments. This is not a meaningful public engagement. We need to find ways where we can encourage the public in general to participate.claim

02:17:15Furthermore, we have two feasibility studies. These studies could have been attached to the report as annexures so that there is transparency to this report. The report has not served in Section 79. We will note the report once our concerns have been satisfied. Thank you.claim

02:17:39Thank you, Councillor Sekhu. Councillor Mkasi from EFF.

02:17:46Uh thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to our caucus leader, Commissar Dr Mgcina, our most progressive Chief Whip, Councillor Thabiso Mogapi, fellow progressive ground forces of the EFF, residents of um Johannesburg.

02:18:00SepediNdaa.

02:18:01Speaker, sometimes it's very important to remind each other who we are. Seems like there's some right-wing organization who forget us. EFF is a radical and militant economic emancipation movement, which brings together revolutionaries, fearless, radical, and militant activists, workers' movements, and non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, lobby groups under the need to pursue the struggle for economic emancipation.claim

02:18:27The EFF is a radical, left, anti-capitalist and anti-imperialist movement with an internationalist outlook anchored by popular grassroots formations and struggles. EFF is the vanguard of the community and workers' struggles and always on the side of the people with determination and consistency associated with protest movements in South Africa.

02:18:49This brief introduction may serve as a reminder for those who publicly declare us their number one enemy while secretly writing letters to inquire about side-chick relationship arrangements. Perhaps they forget who we are and think we easily overlook their comments. Those capitalists can quickly forget what they have said about us in the United States

02:19:14without provocation, but we are not surprised. Capitalists suffer from the mind of a rat. Maybe if they asked for forgiveness, we could consider accepting it, but I don't see that happening because racists often believe they are more important than others. Speaker, we welcome the report on the public comments, and we appreciate the officials who handled this process.claim

02:19:39The way they responded to questions demonstrates that proper work was done, allowing the city to proceed effectively with this project. As the EFF, we urge all City of Johannesburg residents to get involved in recycling. This initiative can stimulate the economy and help address the pressing issue of unemployment. Speaker, we would be failing in our duties if we don't address the urgent service delivery issues in this council.claim

02:20:05It is concerning to see residents of Zandspruit Plot 51 raising issues about their VIP toilets, which have not been serviced for months. Water and sanitation are constitutional rights, and as the City of Johannesburg, it is our responsibility to protect these rights. Residents of Plot 104 in Zandspruit lack toilets despite the city providing them with a communal tap. Additionally, residents of Scrapyardclaim

02:20:30in Zandspruit only receive water from communal taps at 2:00 a.m., raising safety concerns given the current crime rate in informal settlements. Residents of um VLK in Ward 127 also do not have access to water or sanitation. Although we have highlighted um only a few cases, these issues affect thousands of Johannesburg residents.

02:20:55Some are forced to rely on water tanks, not because there are no Joburg Water pipes nearby, but due to unnecessary tenders that keep expanding the eating arrangements. We call on all officials in the City of Johannesburg to take their jobs seriously and respect the lives of our people. Don't just sit there listening to us; attend to the issues we raise. As the EFF, we urge the City of Johannesburg to discontinue

02:21:22the use of pit toilets and bucket toilets to uphold the dignity of our people. Flushing toilets should be available for every household.

02:21:30SepediLe rena re batho.

02:21:31With that being said, Speaker, the EFF acknowledges the report. Thank you.

02:21:36Thank you so much, Councillor. Can we have Councillor Madiba from the ANC? Thank you.

02:21:47Thank you, Madam Speaker. Uh greetings again to yourself, the Executive Mayor, Mayoral Committee, Chair of Chairs, Chief Whip, fellow councillors, and all residents of Johannesburg.

02:22:01Councillor, can you just hold on? I'm not sure; there's a loud disturbance. Thank you. You can carry on.

02:22:11Thank you, Madam Speaker. Item 2 deals with the public participation process required by law under the Municipal Financial Management Act, Section 120, Paragraph 6, and the Municipal Systems Act, Section 21, Paragraph A. Following council's resolution in September 2024, the city issued a 60-day public notice from 6 December 2024 toclaim

02:22:3828 February 2025. During this period, 24 written submissions were received from residents, community groups, and other stakeholders. The majority of these responses were positive. They welcomed the project's potential to, one, reduce reliance on landfill; two, generate clean and renewable energy;claim

02:23:04three, create employment opportunities; and to improve the efficiency of waste management. Some concerns were raised, particularly regarding emissions and the livelihood of informal waste pickers. The city has addressed these concerns, confirming that the project will comply with strict environmental standards and will integrate informal waste pickers into the new value chain,

02:23:31ensuring that no one is left behind. The public participation was transparent and inclusive, meeting all legal requirements. Therefore, Item 2 requests council to approve that the project proceeds to the public-private partnership procurement phase. This is the final step before implementation can begin. Speaker,

02:23:54Item 1 secures the financing, while Item 2 secures the public and legal mandate. Together, they demonstrate good governance, combining financial discipline, public accountability, and sustainable development. They also affirm that Johannesburg remains a leader in green innovation and that the ANC continues to govern with foresight,

02:24:20inclusion, and care for future generations. As the African National Congress, we are satisfied that funding resources have been confirmed and are in the best financial interest of the city. The legislative and public participation requirements have been fully met, and the project aligns with the ANC manifesto commitment to build a clean, green, and sustainable city

02:24:46that creates jobs and protects the environment. Therefore, the ANC caucus formally supports this item, and we request this council to note and approve this report. I thank you.

02:25:00Thank you, Councillor Madiba. MMC Masuku.

02:25:06Thank you very much to Councillor Harris, Councillor Masuku, as well as to Councillor Sekhu and Madiba for articulating the essence of this report. The essence of this report is to actually inform council of the outcome of the 60-day participation that was issued in line with the MFMA Section 21A.claim

02:25:34Um so I think it's important that we get that right. And when we do that, we are actually in compliance, and this project actually also falls under the City of Joburg's Sustainable Service Delivery, as well as supporting the IDP as well as the GDS through the innovation in waste management, renewable energy generation, and circular economy principles.

02:26:01Councillor Madiba has put it properly through you, Speaker, that we went through a public participation process, which started on the 6th of December 2024 to the 28th of February 2025, and there were 24 written submissions that were received. And Councillor Madiba speaks clearly about a concern in terms of the livelihoods. Some of the inputs that we got back related to concerns about the livelihoods of the waste pickers.claim

02:26:33There were concerns raised in terms of the emissions as well as potential waste challenges, but the essence of it is for us to get the endorsement of this project to ensure we resolve waste challenges and promote green energy. And as the city, we've reaffirmed our commitment to strict environmental standards, advancing emission control technologies,

02:26:59and formalization of this project. And I think, Councillor Cook, where you raised a valid point, Chairperson of Finance, is the transparency. And we speak about ensuring that we enhance transparency and reporting because, at the end of it all, we need some sort of a dashboard to share real-time reporting in terms of how we are doing.

02:27:28And that becomes, again, Speaker, the role of Section 79, the transparency in terms of the work that we do and ensuring that we report. It can be quarterly, it can be bi-annually, but the Section 79 committees have a right to do that, and that is the role of oversight. And we ask council to accept the outcome of the 60-day public notice

02:27:55for the Alternative Waste Treatment Technology project for the City of Johannesburg. I thank you very much, Speaker.

02:28:03Thank you, MMC. Um the recommendations are on pages 2.6, and we is the item agreed to? Thank you.

Item 3: MFMA in-year financial report to 31 July 2025

02:28:25We proceed with Item 3, which is the City of Johannesburg MFMA In-Year Financial Report for the period ended 31st of July 2025.

02:28:40Thank you, councillors. Um Councillor S. Nkonyeni from ActionSA.

02:28:51Greetings, Speaker. Greetings to the Fabulous 44. All protocols observed. ActionSA notes this report, but what it reveals is deeply concerning. The city boasts of a so-called 36% revenue over-performance, yet this is nothing more than a timing illusion driven by early equitable share transfers from National Treasury,claim

02:29:16not by any real improvement in revenue collection. In fact, the city collected 500 million less than budgeted, with a collection rate that has already slipped below target in the very first month of the financial year. Speaker, what is truly alarming is the 1% capital expenditure, a shameful 84 million spent out of an R8.7 billion budget.claim

02:29:41This means that critical projects to fix our roads, upgrade water infrastructure, and deliver services to our communities have not even begun. Johannesburg cannot afford another year of unspent capital budgets while residents live with broken infrastructure. The city's debtors' book now sits at 68claim

02:30:00billion rand. This is R68 billion owed while the city continues to bungle collections and mismanage accounts. Disconnections may sound tough,

02:30:10but when they bring in only a fraction of what is owed, it proves there is no coherent debt recovery strategy in place. Even more worrying,

02:30:208 years after it became mandatory, the city still does not comply with mSCOA. We are running a multibillion rand metro on manual interventions and spreadsheets.

02:30:31This is not governance. This is a recipe for financial disaster. Speaker, we cannot continue to pass the city's financial incompetencies onto residents.

02:30:40Surcharges do not increase revenue or offset Eskom tariff hikes. Instead, they rob residents of their hard-earned income. There is no value for money.

02:30:49Speaker, if R100 get- gets you R20 uh, so- 20 units of electricity and the city takes R10, it means you spend R100 and get R90 worth of value,

02:31:01this on top of the high cost of living. ActionSA rejects any attempt to make residents pay for the city's poor management and inefficiencies.

02:31:09ActionSA will not sit quietly while the, while the executive masks inefficiency with accounting tricks. We demand credible financial recovery plan,

02:31:19one that tackles the real issues, poor collection, collapsing infrastructure, and a city administration that cannot spend the money it, it budgets.

02:31:28Until then, the so-called surplus means nothing to the people of Johannesburg. We are still waiting for basic services. Thank you.

02:31:40Thank you, Councilor. Um, Councilor Harris, ACDP.

02:31:49Madam Speaker, I rise to speak on item three, the MFMA in-year financial report for the period ended 31 July 2025.

02:32:01The ACDP notes the MFMA July report. It is the first month, so we pray the positive start will be maintained throughout the financial year, over and above equitable share contributions.

02:32:13The debtors analysis, the over 90 days makes interesting reading. Organs of state owe the city R2.1 billion.

02:32:22Commercial businesses owe the, owe the city R9 billion. Households owe the city R50 billion.claim

02:32:32For the 2024/2025 financial year, R79.8 billion is debt over a year old.claim

02:32:41It would be good to understand how much of these amounts are prescribed. The sweeping balances table is also a serious concern.

02:32:50The City Power overdraft of R17 billion shows no sign of reducing. This is an indication that there are, there is uncontrolled inefficiency in this entity.

02:33:01The strangling increases introduced in July seemingly, seemingly has no effect on stemming the tide of the monthly losses within that entity.

02:33:11The ACDP notes this report. Thank you.

02:33:16Thank you, Councilor Harris. Councilor Boer from Freedom Front Plus.

02:33:24AfrikaansMiddag, Mevrou die Speaker,

02:33:26um fellow councilors again. I rise on the MFMA report for July 2025. Um

02:33:33I think today's a rare moment in council where most parties are united and I, I'm going to make use of this opportunity to congratulate the CFO and his team

02:33:44for the highest collection rate that we ever had in the council of 93.2% for July, and I think that deserves a hand clap to the CFO.

02:33:56All right, it seems to me we were, we were not so united as I thought we were. Um

02:34:02but, Madam Speaker, let's get, get on to the financial figures. Yes, we had a, an, an excellent uh collection rate, but does the, that does not, does not reflect the true picture. Um

02:34:13although it was 93% in, in July, in region D, our collection rate is standing at 45%.

02:34:23In region G, our collection rate is standing at 52%.

02:34:29Madam Speaker, those two regions are crippling our city, and it seems to me there's, nothing gets done to resolve that. Um

02:34:39and then also on this report, it, this report reflects the billing of the city, but we must also remember

02:34:4848% of water is not billed. 40% of electricity does not get billed. So, we only seeing the portion that is being billed, uh the

02:34:59and there is no addressing of this problem of nonrevenue water, nonrevenue electricity. Um

02:35:10yes, and the city cannot be afloat by 40% nonrevenue, 48% nonrevenue on water, and collection rate of 45% in Region D and 52% in Region G.

02:35:23We cannot accept the other regions, Regions A, B, C, E, and F to, to, to keep the, keep the city afloat. Those issues really needs to be addressed.

02:35:36Our outstanding debt has, has risen to 68 billion. This is just creeping up and up. Um it is not sustainable. We, we really need a huge intervention in there,

02:35:47but I will speak on that item later. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:35:52Thank you, Councilor Boer.

02:35:53AfrikaansBaie dankie.

02:35:55Councilor C. Santana from the DA.

02:36:00Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak on the MFMA in-year financial report for the period ending the 31st of July. Uh, Madam Speaker, I've largely been covered by my previous colleagues, so I'm just gonna highlight uh

02:36:14the quality of the reports which is problematic. If we have to look at the actual report itself,

02:36:20Yeah. If we look at the report itself,

02:36:23Councilors, please.

02:36:25the, the, and specifically around from, from page 3.3, the report refers to our cash outflows

02:36:34uh were more than our inflows resulting in a positive movement on the overall cash balances. Now, that cannot be if outflows is more than our inflows. That would have been a negative

02:36:45uh movement and not a positive movement. So, I'm imploring to the MMC and, and through the speaker you, the MMC and finance to actually read the reports and see where the misstatements um, um flow on.

02:37:00Um, of concern for us is the overdrawn sweeping accounts uh for City Power, JDA, JOSHCO, Metrobus, PropCom portfolio, Joburg Roads, and MTC which continues to, to persist.

02:37:12The other issue that, that was noting um, and I do commend obviously again once to the group CFO and the department for actually achieving the highest collection rate to date at 93.2,

02:37:23however, if we carry on further down the reports, chart C3, the aged consumer debtors analysis, the columns are too small. So, then if I compare chart C3 with chart uh C4,

02:37:36I can't see whether that adds up or not. Um

02:37:41and then if we move to the, the aged creditors analysis, chart C5, it shows that our creditors or our trade creditors were owing an amount of

02:37:51562,381,973 billion. If that was not even picked up by our CFO or the, the committee at large or the maycom,

02:38:04I have serious doubts on how we can place reliance on these figures when there's such a substantial amount was reflecting in the report itself.

02:38:14And that obviously then filters through to table C1 and table C4. And, and that's why I said it's extremely important that we, we scrutinize the documents that are presented

02:38:25to ensure that if there are errors, that we address these errors, and they don't follow through because it actually makes the whole report based on one item almost unreliable. Um

02:38:36and then the other issue that I've noticed is that we are persisting in over-expenditure uh and exceeding our revenue. This is completely unsustainable

02:38:45uh, and I need to understand and see group CFO, maycom that you actively ensure that we are not spending more than what we are generating, and I look forward to see how we address those issues.

02:38:57Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:39:04Thank you, uh, so much, Councilor Santana.

02:39:11Councilor Zitha from the EFF, Sharon.

02:39:18Thank you very much, Speaker. It's Saseka, not Sharon. I don't know where you get Sharon from.

02:39:25Sorry, sorry.

02:39:27No, it's fine. Uh, excuse my voice today. I'm not well, you can notice.

02:39:35Um, Speaker, fellow councilors, officials, residents of Johannesburg, those uh at the gallery and watching at home, I greet you all.

02:39:46The EFF acknowledge the report reflect short-term financial stability in the city performance in July 2025, 2025.claim

02:39:56The city recorded a surplus of R980 million despite the budget projecting a deficit. This is a sign of discipline in expenditure and improved revenue collection.

02:40:09We also note that the cash and investment balances stood at 3.9 billion demonstrating a healthy liquidity position with a short-term borrowing uh required.

02:40:22The collection rate was impressive, uh 93.2%, proving that even amid economic hardship, residents and businesses

02:40:34are honoring their financial obligations. The EFF further welcome the city's ongoing commitment to mSCOA compliances and it timeously submission

02:40:45of report, a sign of administrative consistency and governance discipline. However, Speaker, financial stability without service delivery is meaningless.

02:40:57The report exposes a very low capital expenditure with only 1% of the 8.7 billion capital budget spent by the end of July.

02:41:08This signal a serious underperformance in infrastructure delivery. Furthermore, the debtors' book now exceeds 68 billion,

02:41:18highlighting a poor uh revenue collection, especially in the service charges such as water and electricity, likely due to faulty meters and unreliable billing system.

02:41:29Municipal entities like JOSHCO and Metrobus remain financially strained, and small suppliers continue to suffer delayed payment, crippling township economy.

02:41:41Speaker, the EFF appreciate the city's stable books, but reject the illusion that stability equals progress. A city can have a surplus uh in its finances, yet a deficit in service delivery.

02:41:54We therefore recommend that this report be noted with a firm condition for improved spending, accountability, faster implication and capital project. The EFF note the report. Thank you.

02:42:06Thank you, Councilor. I hope you recover soon. Councilor Radebe from the ANC.

02:42:16Uh, thank you, Speaker. Uh, Madam Speaker, I will combine item three and item four. Uh, it's section 71 reports.

02:42:26Just hold on. Just hold on.

02:42:30Um item four has not been read into record, so you can't.

02:42:34All right. All right, no it's okay.

02:42:35Uh just proceed with this one.

02:42:37All right.

02:42:37Thank you.

02:42:38Thank you, Madam Speaker. Uh greetings to you, the Executive Mayor, uh Chief Whip, uh the Chair of Chairs, uh the Mayoral Committee, fellow councilors, uh

02:42:51and the residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I'd first like to commend the Mayor and the MMC of Finance for making sure that we get this section 71 reports.

02:43:04Uh, we can see even uh Councilor Santana, you know, did not complain this time around. Uh we are in October and already we've got, you know, the July and August reports.

02:43:16Those are fresh reports. Uh we're able to interrogate and see into the city finances uh timeously. Uh Madam Speaker,

02:43:27that on its own is an indication of good governance uh that has been shown by the GLU uh that is

02:43:36with the ANC at the helm. And it tells a good story. I know through you, Madam Speaker, Councilor Nkonyeni

02:43:47uh is lamenting about us, you know, not performing. But like what Councilor Boer said, we need to give credit where it's due. The collection rate is quite impressive.

02:43:59Uh, we, we are seeing it for the first time. It's showing us that we are in a turning point in the finances of the City of Johannesburg, and we can confidently state that the city's finances are improving.

02:44:12Uh between the month of uh July and August, we have moved from a position of tight liquidity to a positive and more stable cash position.

02:44:23Uh we are seeing a cash investment balance that grew by, from 3.9 billion in July to round about 5.4 in August, which is a net positive movement of about 1.4 billion.

02:44:37Uh the collection rate has improved tremendously. We are impressed, and it also give us a year-to-date collection that is now around 91.4 billion.

02:44:48The city has also recorded a surplus of uh 908 million where a deficit was expected. This demonstrates not only a better fiscal discipline,

02:45:00but an improvement and confidence in our revenue management processes. We are also seeing an improvement in performance, in performance key service such as rates, electricity,

02:45:10uh and a little bit in refuse. All which have recorded a higher recovery compared to the previous month.

02:45:19Madam Speaker, the reports uh show that the city's liquidity is quite stable. Uh there was also no overdrawn or no use of the short-term borrowing facilities, a clear sign

02:45:33that our internal cash management has improved tremendously. Revenue exceeded the budgeted at 627 million while expenditure remained

02:45:45uh at round about 501 million. Um you'll notice, Madam Speaker, here and there I might be quoting numbers that are different from my colleagues.

02:45:56That's because I've done the comparison between the two months. Uh

02:46:04however, Madam Speaker, we must be honest about the work that still needs to be done. There's still quite a number of work ahead of us uh that we need to do. The city's debtors' book is standing at a

02:46:17staggering 68 billion, uh which a large portion of it is owed by households. Uh and Councilor Boer is quite correct, regions that, you know,

02:46:28are not pulling through here, it's your Region D, uh Region G as well, and I think something needs to be done in those particular regions. Uh

02:46:39I'm just urging councilors that reside and oversee in those particular regions to ensure that we have some kind of road shows to encourage our residents to go out there and pay uh the services.

02:46:53Uh the municipal entities such as your City Power, JOSHCO, Metrobus remain overdrawn and they continue to strain the city's financial cash position. Capital expenditure, which is uh

02:47:07low, only at 4% uh up until August, uh means the city service delivery and infrastructure upgrades are not moving as fast enough.

02:47:19But we understand we're at the beginning of the financial year, and we'll definitely see the improvement. The water and refuse collection rate remain below 80%,

02:47:30showing us an ongoing uh inefficiencies, and we need to do something in terms of those particular entities, uh to make sure that Joburg Water and also Pikitup,

02:47:42uh we encourage the, the collection rate. Madam Speaker, we are indeed turning the corner. We are seeing an improvement in the financial sustainability,

02:47:53but we must uh take, you know, bold steps, uh and we must be deliberate. We've been seeing the MMC of Finance lately. Uh she's been doing a great work in making sure we're taking those bold steps

02:48:06uh in making sure we collect the revenue, um and then we, we, we get the city back into the financial sustainability that we want.

02:48:17We need to also make sure that we continue auditing meters, we expand our prepaid system, we enforce credit control without fear or favor. I think Councilor Nkonyeni

02:48:28isiZulusiyavumelana lapho, ukuthi

02:48:30we need to take bold steps in terms of, you know, collecting that revenue. We need to make sure we revive the city entities. Um each entity must have a financial turnaround strategy plan

02:48:44to make sure that we reduce this overdrafts and become self-sustaining.

02:48:49The capital budget must uh translate into a visible service delivery. Slow spending delays growth and future revenue potential. We need to make sure we fix the leaks, reduce the billing errors,

02:49:02and address illegal, uh, illegal connections. Madam Speaker, we need to make sure that we build a more resilient city's economy by unlocking local uh economy

02:49:18that will enable us to collect more revenue, particularly from our businesses.

02:49:23This report uh show a city that is turning a corner, one that is beginning to rebuild trust in the financial management and capacity delivery.

02:49:35The improvements in cash flow, revenue collection, spending control are a clear indication or clear indicators that our city's financial reforms are starting to work.

02:49:45We are indeed starting to bear the fruits of the war rooms that have been put in place. But the progress must not make us complacent. We must continue tightening our systems, enforcing accountability,

02:49:59and investing wisely in infrastructure, support growth and service delivery. If we remain disciplined, innovative, Johannesburg can indeed move financial recovery,

02:50:10move from financial recovery to financial excellence. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, we note that this section 71 reports, uh we note this section 71 reports,

02:50:20we welcome them as the ANC. They represent not only the complacent uh They represent not only the complacent with the law,

02:50:30the compliance with the law, sorry, Madam Speaker, the compliance with the law, but also a clear reflection of a city that is being renewed, that is complete, uh committed

02:50:41to sustainability, efficiency, and transparency. Together, we can strengthen the financial foundation of the, of the city that supports service delivery, and build Johannesburg that truly works for us.

02:50:54And Madam Speaker, for us to be able to continue with this uh growth, uh financial sustainability, we must make sure that the people of Johannesburg continue

02:51:06to vote for the African National Congress. They must make sure that the city that was broken by Mashaba and Phalatse uh is rebuilt. Madam Speaker, thank you.

02:51:18Thank you, Councilor Radebe. MMC Masuku.

02:51:25Thank you once more, uh Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, both Councilor uh Boer and uh Councilor Radebe are correct

02:51:35that we need to intensify revenue collection methods and make sure we bring uh more money, and we are committed to those initiatives that we're going to bring as well as, uh, we're finalizing agreements

02:51:49with the banks in ensuring that we move faster. Uh God willing, council approves the debt rehabilitation program today.

02:51:58Uh it will also be a step in the right direction because it will actually assist us to write off uh some debt, particularly because we know uh the, the circumstances of our debtors' book,

02:52:11which councilors have, uh, spoken over and over in council and in the section uh 79. The two regions, um, that you've raised as a concern that are

02:52:23uh pulling us down as the city, uh specifically uh D and G, I think also, uh, colleagues, Councilor Radebe is correct.

02:52:34As councilors, we must also assist the city. It can't be that in the City of Johannesburg there are wards that are no-go areas. They are,

02:52:45we have to get JMPD to assist us to go and do cutoffs. It shouldn't be like that because we have to educate and ensure that

02:52:56awareness is created, and our residents understand the importance of paying for services. And that's one thing that we're very clear about, that we are going to embark on.

02:53:06It can't be that we fold our arms knowing very well where we can, we can collect money. And the city allows, if you can't pay,

02:53:16come through and sign an acknowledgement of debt, but we're going to be aggressive. We're going to enter, we're going to do our work because we must collect for the city.

02:53:27And we will rely on public representatives to assist us in doing that work, and we have to be firm, colleagues. We have to be firm, councilors, and

02:53:38speaker's office as well in terms of ward governance at the public participation level because we have to shift the narrative ourselves

02:53:48to say pay as a community member, as a business, as a church. If you can't, come in, we work out a way in terms of how

02:53:58you can manage to pay. And I think that responsibility lies um on all of us. Councilor Santana, you've raised an um, an issue uh on the

02:54:09on a misstatement. We're happy to correct where there's a misstatement, we're not adverse to that. We'll look into that, but I must say our figures are checked and verified by National Treasury

02:54:22on our section 71 report. So, if it's an issue of a actual misstatement in terms of language or terminology, but the figures themselves are actually uh for the section 71s

02:54:32are checked and verified by National Treasury. And then, um, but we're happy to look at any uh misstatement. I mean, Councilor Boer, I think in, in the June um,

02:54:45it was the June council, June or July, where you actually, through you, Speaker, Councilor Boer had raised an issue on the debt impairment, uh, where he had indicated, I think, that

02:54:57there was a, a variance and the figures were not making sense, and then the numbers were, which we, and um, I've developed um a response to clarify that, to indicate that

02:55:09the numbers that were recorded were, were, at the time, were being processed in line with year-end timelines, and we were actually working on pre-actuals,

02:55:17but I'm happy to submit that in writing because you had actually raised that in a full council meeting, so we did, uh, with the team look at that. So, I'm happy to also do the same so that

02:55:27we, we walk this journey together where there are, uh, there are concerns in, in, in the committee. And um, lastly, uh Speaker,

02:55:38Councilor Nkonyeni's is, the criticism is, is welcomed, but it's a bit unfair. We all know that CapEx expenditure in the first quarter

02:55:49can never be truly at um high levels, but you will see an improvement, uh Councilor Nkonyeni, in the quarters to come because you know the first month is always slow uh

02:56:01in terms of spending, and uh work is, is you know, is, is finalized as and when we go,

02:56:09but we take the criticism, but we will do better and improve in terms of our CapEx um expenditure. We ask council to note the section 71 report for the month of July. Thanks.

02:56:20Thank you, Councilor Masuku. Colleagues, um this report is for information. Is it noted?

02:56:31STC, next item.

Item 4: MFMA in-year financial report to 31 August 2025 (begins)

02:56:33Item four is City of Johannesburg MFMA in-year financial report for the period ended 31st August 2025.

02:56:42Councilor Nkonyeni.

02:56:48isiZuluNgibonge, Speaker. Ngibonge no

02:56:51MMC uh through her commitment to improve. Um greetings to you, all protocols observed. Speaker,

02:57:02through you, I'd like to say to uCouncilor Radebe, you cannot praise a fish for swimming. You don't get a pat on the back

02:57:12for doing the bare minimum, for doing the bare minimum or doing the job that you are paid for. With that said, Madam Speaker, ActionSA notes the report for August 2025,

02:57:24but again, beneath the reported surplus lies a city that is not collecting adequately, not implementing, and not transforming its finances. The city continues to miss its revenue targets on basic services.

02:57:38Electricity and water income each fell 9% below budget in this report, showing the ongoing failure of billing systems and credit control. Our collection rate remains below target.

02:57:50Capital spending is still dismal, but ke the MMC spoke to that, uh, so I will move along. Conditional grants tell the same story.

02:58:0013% spending means Johannesburg risks forfeiting money meant for housing upgrades, roads, and energy inefficiency, funding that residents desperately need.

02:58:11This also speaks to the implementation of phase 1C and uh, the, the, the PTNG being cut, uh PTNG grant being cut, uh Madam Speaker.

02:58:23Um Speaker, once again, for many, many times, ActionSA calls for urgent action, a turnaround plan to fix revenue collection, accelerated capital implementation with clear monthly targets,

02:58:36and accountability for persistent noncompliance with treasury standards. Additionally, the city must optimize trading reforms to ensure that entities' bank accounts are not swept

02:58:48uh by the city's central uh account, leaving them overdrawn and financially crippled. The administration must turn around problematic entities such as City Power, JDA, and JOSHCO

02:59:00that are consistently overdrawn and mismanaged. Furthermore, the city should inspire a culture of payment. Councilors as well are responsible for this, not by punishment, not by punishing residents,

02:59:12but by ending illegal disconnections and clamping down on illegal

02:59:16Councilor Nkonyeni, just hold on.

02:59:20Thank you. You can carry on.

02:59:26Furthermore, the city should inspire a culture of payment, not by punishing residents, but by ending illegal disconnections and clamping down on illegal connections that undermine revenue collection and service delivery.

02:59:39Residents who pay must see value, and those who steal electricity and water must face firm, but fair enforcement. We cannot keep applauding a paper surplus while service delivery stalls.

02:59:51Johannesburg deserves financial management that delivers results, not excuses. If the job is overwhelming for this administration to deliver

03:00:00ActionSA can take over the ropes, we have capable leaders this side with the expertise of the likes of Dr. Nasiphi Moya in Tshwane, the administration can take lessons from us on what good governance truly looks like.

03:00:13isiZuluNgiyabonga speaker.

03:00:16Thank you Councillor Nkonyeni. Um

03:00:22AfrikaansRaadslid Boer.

03:01:25that City Power has got a negative 16.7 billion, so what it all means is that Johannesburg Water, Pikitup and other entities are, are funding City Power, if it was not for that, City Power would have been gone and we would have, wouldn't have been any electricity in this city, the City Power needs to be addressed urgently. The turnaround strategy that was implemented on the 1st of July with, with the entities taking over their own billing, own collections and so on,

03:01:57if I see those figures for July and August together, it is actually frightening to see what is happening in City Power. City Power is here to date income for the 2 months was 4.2 billion, 400 mil, 400 million below budget, budgeted bulk electricity cost amounted to 5.6 billion, 500 million over budget, so for 2 months already, City Power is, is a billion rand

03:02:27under budget, so we buying electricity for 5.6 billion and we're selling it to the residents for 4.2 billion. Does that make business sense? No, it does not. What is the reason for that? City Power gives reasons for that um they say um it's because of um overall meter reading performance declined as a result of challenges. It says um it's also attributable to 40,000 customers who converted to prepaid electricity,

03:02:56that who are not vending on their meters. Madam Speaker, City Power is in dire straits because of their 40% non-revenue electricity and as, if we do not turn around that, we have not turned around the corner as Councillor Radebe thought we did. We need to get morality back into the city, we have to get integrity back into the city and people need to be billed and pay for their services, unless that happens, City Power is not going to see the end of this financial year.

Item 4: Section 71 August report, debate

03:03:24We cannot be running with losses of R500 million a month and expect other entities to do that. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

03:03:32Thank you, Councillor Boer. Before I call the next speaker, I have a report from councillors in the gallery, uh in the chamber that there are people taking pictures up there. Can you please refrain from doing that? On both sides, please refrain from taking pictures.

03:04:00AfrikaansDankie.

03:04:01Next speaker, Councillor Magwentshu.

03:04:06Uh thank you speaker. I would like to give my 3 minutes to Councillor Zigebe who's going to be speaking on behalf of the minority governing parties. Thank you.

03:04:17You've already used 1 minute, so it's 2 minutes. Thank you. Um it's okay, councillor. Councillor Zigebe, you have the time from Councillor Magwentshu.

03:04:32Uh thank you, speaker. Uh thank you uh to my Deputy Secretary of the Minority Governing Parties. This Section 71 report before us for the month ending 31 August 2025 tells a story of a city that is financially stable, but still learning how to turn that stability into service. The numbers are solid, revenue collection sits at 15.96 billion, exceeding the target by 627 million,claim

03:05:04and our cash balance closed at 50, at 5.4 billion without resorting to short-term borrowing. That is commendable management, yet as finance practitioners we know a healthy balance sheet can make under, can mask under performance. The 3% under spending in operation, in operating expenditure and a capital spend of only 4% means we are holding back development. A budget not spent is a service not delivered.claim

03:05:35We are seeing procurement bottlenecks, delayed approvals and fragmented coordination costing us time and credibility. Cash flow is strong, but cash is not an end itself, it is a tool, rands must move to where the people's needs are, we cannot rest on liquidity while infrastructure ages, communities wait and opportunities slip. Let us adopt rolling procurement frameworks so that departments can deliver faster without repeating competitive uh processes,claim

03:06:06the uh processes that delays for routine projects. Let us make efficiency and um efficiency an everyday habit not a headline achievement. On grants we have a bigger problem, spending only at 13% of 1.32 billion in conditional allocations is unacceptable, that these are not just figures, they represent lost jobs, delayed housing and misused infrastructure. I propose a grant acceleration task team, a technical cross-departmentalclaim

03:06:37engine that meets weekly, tracks every conditional grant project, identifies bottlenecks and unblocks them until funds turn into visible impact. Revenue collection deserves recognition, overall 91.4% with electricity at 101%, yet water and refuse remain weak. We must use data predictive analytics, indigent profiling and prepaid conversion must replace legacy manual processes. Revenue management must not beclaim

03:07:08reactive, it must be predictive and strategic. Remember, the revenue is not just collection, it is confidence. The city's debtors book at 68.4 billion is a concern. We cannot build a culture of payment without a culture of fairness. We must differentiate between those who cannot pay and those who will not pay. Enforcement must be coupled with structured debt relief for indigent households who comply with with registration requirements, credit control must defend the fiscus whileclaim

03:07:38preserving dignity. Finally, on the rating front, the agency Moody's Investors Service has assigned the City of Johannesburg a long-term issuer rating of Ba3 with a stable outlook, a cautious vote of no confidence that recognizes your large and diverse uh diversified economic base, but also underscores constraints in capital spending, infrastructure backlog and operating pressures. This means the market sees our potential,

03:08:09but also expects us to convert that potential into performance. The rating is not a compliant, is not, is not a compliment for what we have done, it is a reminder of what remains to be done. Thank you.

03:08:21Thank you, Councillor Zigebe. Um Councillor Harris, ACDP.

03:08:30Madam Speaker, once again I rise to speak to item four, the noting of the MFMA report for August 2025. For the second month in a row there is a positive inflow of revenue, however, the collection rates of water at 76.8% and refuse at 74.8% are a cause of concern. The marginal decrease of 300 million in the overdraft of City Power is a good sign,claim

03:08:57but we are supremely aware that one swallow doesn't make a summer. However, JDA, MTC and JOSHCO's overdrafts are increasing. This report is not required to address accountability, but we trust the Section 79 committees will conduct their oversight without fear or favor. Only 89.9% of actual collections versus budgeted collections is achieved. If not closely monitored, the 330 million shortfallclaim

03:09:26will have a knock-on effect and ultimately impact service delivery and payments to creditors. The ACDP notes the Section 71 financial report for the month of August 2025, and I thank you.claim

03:09:40Thank you, Councillor Harris. Councillor Santana, DA.

03:09:46Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak on the City of Johannesburg MFMA in-year financial report for the period ended 31st of August. Uh Madam Speaker, once again I've been largely covered by my colleagues, um so I won't repeat, however, just to go back to page 4.3, uh the wording again is incorrect where it stipulates the cash outflow uh was more than the inflows resulting in a positive movement. Please if we can just rectify the wording. The um we note with concern obviously the continuous overdrawn sweepingclaim

03:10:18accounts for both City Power, JDA, JOSHCO, Metrobus, the JPC portfolio, uh Johannesburg Roads and MTC. Um then, Madam Speaker, if we obviously looked at the rest of the reports, the reports then did line up, uh did align, uh of concern of course is our continuous growing debtors book at R68.4 billion and the aged creditors analysis chart C5 seemed to be reasonable at 11.1 billion, so again there was a huge issue that happened in July that nobody knowsclaim

03:10:49about um and obviously if we can just see what transpired, but this seems to be reasonable and therefore we accept that. I just want to, to highlight on the City Power issue. City Power in our view finds itself in a similar position as Eskom was in the last 5 years give or take where our revenue is tanking, but our expenditure is rising. And unless we address that issue we're going to be increasing the cost to residents at a far higher rate than Eskom did to everybody else.claim

03:11:19And it's something that we need to look at as the city or alternatively in our view is possibly then give that city infrastructure to Eskom to deal with and take City Power out of the equation for the City of Johannesburg if we cannot manage it. Um so, so that's something that we need to consider. I know we are looking at obviously the institutional review and this is something that is burdening us as our property rates uh and the core is actually funding City Power at large which is then umclaim

03:11:50avoiding us from actually getting critical infrastructure into the ground and other services for Joburg Water to actually maintain and sustain their infrastructure. So, Madam Speaker, that being said, uh we note the report as the Democratic Alliance and I thank you.

03:12:04Thank you so much, Councillor Santana. Councillor Zitha, EFF.

03:12:14Thank you um again, Speaker. Um I agree with Councillor Radebe. Councillor Radebe, this morning when I present this um to my caucus I said the very same thing that those items should have been combined because they're speaking of the same thing, so what I did in this item I just compare with uh item three, the July report. So um again greetings to you, Speaker, greetings to the EFF councillors,claim

03:12:45officials of the City of Johannesburg, residents at home and uh those ones at the gallery. Um Speaker, the EFF note that the city continue to show financial stability recording a surplus of 940 in August uh up from 908 million in July. Uh this reflect a sound financial uh financial management particularly in controlling expenditure and improving revenue collection. We also welcome the increase in cash investment balances from 3.9 billionclaim

03:13:18in July to 5.4 billion in August, showing that the city liquidity position is strengthening with no short-term borrowing required. The collection rate remain above 90% at 91.4%, a sign that the resident and businesses continue to fulfill their responsibilities. Speaker, uh the financial surpluses alone cannot be celebrated when service delivery is stagnant. By August the capital expenditure had only improvedclaim

03:13:51to 4% which is far below acceptable performance level. This means projects are not being implemented, communities are not feeling the impact of city's financial strength. We further um we further concerned by recurring structural uh weaknesses, under performance on service charges particularly electricity and water, municipalities entities such as JOSHCO, Metrobus remaining financially dependentclaim

03:14:23on the city. A non-functional SAP system hindering accurate reporting, and a slow payment to small suppliers undermining local economic growth. So, the EFF acknowledge that the city finances are stable, but financial stability without delivery is not a progress. Um the Economic Freedom Fighters will continue to demand that the City of Johannesburg translate its financial surpluses into tangible improvementclaim

03:14:54in the lives of our people because the city that is cash rich, but poor, but people are poor has failed its purposes. Thank you very much, Speaker.

03:15:10Thank you, Councillor Zitha. Um Councillor Radebe, ANC.

03:15:16Uh thank you, Madam Speaker. Uh greetings once again. I think I did try and cover most of uh both reports on the previous speech,

03:15:27but uh once again, Madam Speaker, I'd like to say indeed we are starting to have a good story to tell.claim

03:15:35isiZuluEh qhuba MMC, eh qhuba Mayor.claim

03:15:39Uh we are indeed seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Uh we experienced another good month in August, cash inflows of about 10 billion uh which is quite impressive. Uh that's a good indication. Uh we need to then continue uh in this trajectory if we are indeed uh are to turn the corner and maybe just to touch a bit on the issue of City Power.claim

03:16:10We, we can see it's one of those entities that are draining us uh a lot, but maybe we, we need to find a way to say how do we restructure firstly the revenue structure, but also the business model uh of City Power. If you look at the collection rate, it sits around 98% which indicates there's no problem in terms of us collecting uh electricity revenue,claim

03:16:40but Councillor Boer is quite correct. You know, how we collecting, what are we collecting? We buy electricity for a certain amount, we sell it for a lower amount, that business model on its own uh it's an indication that we might not succeed. But I'm happy to see that on the overdrawn uh amount at City Power, for the first time we are seeing uh a reduction from 17 billion we are somewhere around 16.something billion.

03:17:10Uh we've tried to reduce the over, the overdrawn account by at least a billion, uh so there's a bit of an improvement there as well. Uh Madam Speaker, as the African National Congress we indeed welcome the report and I would like to say the ANC remains the only hope of the people of the City of Johannesburg. In 2026 our people must go out and vote for the ANC. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

03:17:40Thank you, Councillor Radebe. MMC Masuku.

Item 4: MMC Finance replies and report noted

03:17:45Thank you, Madam Speaker. Through you, uh Councillor Nkonyeni says uh you, you should not uh thank fish for swimming, but I think you can commend people who do well. I think good work must be appreciated as was done by Councillor Boer and Councillor Santana and Councillor Radebe. Um I think sometimes showing gratitude and recognizing people's efforts um and the conditions they operate under, um

03:18:17I think our officials do deserve to be uh appreciated when they do well, and we say we see the effort, we appreciate the effort, as much as we do strict oversight and make sure that they work, but there's no harm in saying we see the good work that is done and I think ActionSA can learn from the other caucuses um and do the same. Um the issue of the trading reforms, most absolutely I agree with you. In fact, we had a meeting with the Minister

03:18:47Godongwana uh and the team from National Treasury to make sure that um everybody is on the same page in terms of uh the, the National, the National Treasury trading reforms and I agree with you, both yourself um I think it was Councillor, Councillor Nkonyeni and um Councillor Zitha, so the issue of illegal connections because that actually puts us in a situation where people

03:19:17um are consuming electricity, they're consuming water illegally, and that is taking from the scarce resources already that we have in the city and I think we are going to have to be uh deliberate, uh harsher, MMC Sekwaila also uh we had a bilateral to discuss how we can uh further deal with uh this particular issues and get GFIS on board, JMPD so that we have an integrated approach.

03:19:48Um the concerns on City Power both by Councillor Boer and Councillor um Radebe and Councillor Santana. Madam Speaker, the Mayoral Committee is engaged with this matter. We have um we are applying ourselves, our minds and are very clear in our mind that the turnaround strategy that uh we've approved is going to assist us to move forward and then we'll also look at the entities that are also having um

03:20:20increasing overdrafts uh on a monthly basis, your JDA, um JOSHCO as well, those and Metrobus, those overdrafts are a concern to us as a team, so we have um uh deliberated uh on that in the Mayoral Committee. Then on I think even in July the both uh Councillor Santana I may not have responded, but also Councillor Boer has raised it now. Remember in um in, in, in, in terms of bulk

03:20:51purchases, Eskom prices are higher than um ours, so for an example, this has been an issue for years in terms of the billing and the issue is actually being dealt with by the Department of Electricity and uh NERSA because it doesn't affect only the City of Joburg, it's actually an issue that affects uh all metros in the main. So, the Department uh of Electricity and NERSA um are dealing with that and we will provide feedback

03:21:21as um uh councillors uh you continue to raise the matter. Councillor Zigebe, you raised um yes, there must be a clear distinction, you are correct. There's a difference, that's why we have ESP. There's a difference between a person who uh cannot afford to pay and there's a difference between a person who can afford to pay, but chooses not to pay, that is why stricter uh

03:21:51revenue collection methods have to be uh embarked on and I think you made an error there, Councillor. The, the response from the markets and the rating agencies, it's actually a vote of confidence on the City of Joburg, not a vote of no confidence because we're turning the tide, we're doing what is important for us to do to make sure we get our finances in order. The issue on page 4.3, I think it's the same as on the previous report, we'll look into the and thank you for clarifying that it's an issue

03:22:21of the wording in terms of outflows and uh inflows because if it was uh the opposite then we would be at a negative, so you are actually correct, uh Councillor Santana, uh that wording uh was um turned around and the reasonable uh aged creditors analysis, I think you were just commenting on that. Councillor Zitha, yes, delivery, delivery, delivery. It serves no purpose then we get the money, we do all the work, but then our people are not getting the services,

03:22:53that's why we, the narrative must be people must pay so that we can be able to pay for services, so that also the markets can see that the City of Johannesburg is raising uh collection, they are financially sustainable, then we can come in uh as business and pledge support, we do these PPPs, we do these uh SPVs and get the money, get the projects working, get people into jobs, jobs for our people and service delivery.

03:23:24So, you are right, Councillor Zitha, and that's our intention as well um as we continue on the good and the path of uh a good trajectory in terms of turning the city around. We ask council to note the August Section 71 report. Thank you.

03:23:39Thank you, MMC. Colleagues, it's item four. The report is for information. Is it noted? Next item, STC.

Item 5: Debt Relief Programme Phase 4, ActionSA position

03:24:00AfrikaansDankie Mevrou die Speaker. Um

03:24:00Uh councillors, we proceed with item five and that is COJ Debt Relief Program Phase 4 to assist qualifying customers with relief from historical debt.

03:24:13Councillor Nkonyeni, uh ActionSA.

03:24:18isiZuluNgibonge speaker. Ngibingelele umkhandlu.

03:24:22All protocols observed. Madam Speaker, without fear or favor, we are not here to stroke egos. Yes, good work should be commended, I agree, but all we are saying as ActionSA is that we want the best for the city and these residents. As ActionSA, we rise in support of this important item, the City of Johannesburg's Debt Relief Program Phase 4. The initiative represents

03:24:50a necessary step towards restoring financial dignity for residents while stabilizing the city's revenue bases. However, our support is not without recommendations because our duty is not just to support policy, but to strengthen it in the interests of our residents. Firstly, Madam Speaker, the city must apply empathy and humanity when implementing this program. There are residents who enter into payment arrangements

03:25:20in good faith, but then lose their jobs or income due to retrenchments or unforeseen hardships. When such a resident provides proof such as retrenchment letter or UIF confirmation, the city should grant them a grace period, not punish them by reinstating their debt. We must never forget that behind every account number is a human being, a family trying to survive. True governance is about compassion backed by fairness. Secondly, the city

03:25:50must confront one of its biggest self-inflicted challenges, the broken billing system. I hope the Group CFO is listening there and GCTO. The city cannot continue to rely on estimated readings and overbilling. These inaccurate bills have caused financial distress for countless residents, have increased the city's litigation costs and eroded trust. If the billing system is not fixed, this

03:26:00I'm back on item number four. Um where to start with this item? Um there has been misleading reports in the media um and it's actually irresponsible reporting in the media about a so-called R4 billion that was lost in Johannesburg Water as if it was stolen um and I think we must really when we report to the media be responsible because this could have led

03:26:20program will fail before it begins. City Power and Joburg Water must urgently address electricity and water losses and ensure accurate metering. Every lost kilowatt and every liter of water unaccounted for is lost revenue that could fund better services. Thirdly, we cannot continue the cruel practice of disconnecting residents who are paying their accounts, but have unresolved queries often caused by incompetent officials who fail to do their jobs properly.

03:26:50It is unacceptable that residents are disconnected because the city has failed to resolve its own billing errors. Accounts with ongoing queries, follow-ups, or those billed erroneously must be flagged immediately and exempted from disconnections. Penalties and interest charges must not, penalties and interest charges must also be suspended until those queries are resolved. We must fix the system before we punish the people. At the same time, Madam Speaker, the city must show decisive

03:27:20leadership where revenue collection is genuinely poor. There are areas where people are openly stealing electricity and water, refusing to pay while honest residents carry the burden. ActionSA calls for strict enforcement in these areas. Let the law be applied consistently, not selectively. We also need real community engagements, not digital notices that residents never see. Let us use platforms that reach people directly, community halls,

03:27:50radio stations, the ward meetings, not expensive communication contracts that deliver no results. Finally, the city must stop reporting that queries are resolved when they are not. When an issue is fixed, the resident's statement must reflect that immediately. There should be no disconnections based on outdated information. City Power and Joburg Water must filter their disconnection lists properly before sending out those incompetent subcontractors. Madam Speaker,

03:28:20debt relief must be a tool for fairness, not frustration. It must restore trust between the city and the residents, a trust that has been eroded by years of billing chaos and poor service. ActionSA supports this item because we believe in second chances, but we insist on integrity, transparency and compassion in implementation. Let us remember, financial recovery is not achieved through threats and disconnections, it is achieved through fairness, efficiency

03:28:50and the confidence of our residents. Thank you.

Item 5: FF+ asks for item to be withdrawn

03:28:54Thank you, Councillor Nkonyeni. Councillor Boer.

03:28:59Madam Speaker, last time for the day, um I'm rising on item five, the phase four of the debt uh Debt Relief Scheme. Um if you read on page 5.10, the implementation plan of this debt relief, and this is such an important document um and when we read this document, the shortcomings of the first three phases have really been addressedclaim

03:29:29in this fourth phase. Um but this fourth phase must be used to really clean up our books, reduce that outstanding debt of 68 billion to at least half of that um and in order to achieve that, we need to get a buy-in of everybody in council and from our residents um and if you look at the implementation plan, the plan was that there was first going to be consultations with the Section 79 committeesclaim

03:30:00to unrest in, in, in regions without water um and we see in this quarterly report um the city's got a sweeping bank account and it's, I, I don't, my 3 minutes don't allow me to, to explain how the sweeping bank account works, but the fact is that Johannesburg Water has got a R3.5 billion positive balance in the sweeping account, Pikitup got a R1.8 billion positive balance,claim

03:30:00MPAC, Mayoral Committee before it comes for council approval. Unfortunately, we didn't had a chance at Section 79 to go through this item. And I think this is very crucial. And then where we are today where it says finalization, council approval, there is no need for council approval for today. So, our request was toclaim

03:30:24to recall this item until it has served on all the Section 79 committees because it is such an important document. We really welcome it, but this thing has to be our last chance for success. It is a path for getting a clean audit report from the Auditor-General where we can clean up our debt and clean up our books and get rid of all this prescription debt

03:30:52and so forth. So, we really urge to give a chance so that we can go to our residents with a fully comprehensive debt rehabilitation plan that we communicate with every single resident so that every single resident who qualifies can get a clean-off debt, and that will enhance the city's cash flow enormously. So, we request to

03:31:16let us withdraw this item and bring it back at the council meeting at the end of November so that we can go through it and make sure it is the best document possible. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Item 5: PA calls for full debt write-off

03:31:28Thank you, Councillor Boer. Chair Ponsonby from the PA.

03:31:35Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings to yourself, the Mayor in absentia, our Papa Action, MMC Kenny Kunene, and the Joburg 11. Madam Speaker, the PA is for this item, but I think we suffer of slow amnesia. If we forget that in 2023, this very council passed a motion for completeclaim

03:32:00debt write-off. So, MMC Masuku, I see you well at work with these items. Can we please relook at it? And can we please afford the residents of Joburg a fair opportunity, especially the unemployed and the indigent, the opportunity for a complete write-off? I believe that people should be incentivized. If you do good, you should be rewarded. The 50%claim

03:32:26can work for those that can afford to pay, but let's look at those that is not in a position to enable to pay and also do good to them. The motion was passed by 166 votes in this very council. We sponsored the motion. I was the proposer of that motion. I think it was only the DA and somebody else that did not vote for it. 63 abstained, five did not vote. So, the motion was passed in this council.claim

03:32:56And I don't know why we lack execution on carrying the motion out there and our people. I see City Power has a free basic electricity thing. It is now the 50% half write-off. Let's fulfill the motion that was passed in this council 1st of November 2023. And I thank you.claim

Item 5: ATM and ACDP contributions

03:33:17Thank you, Councillor Ponsonby. Councillor Magwentshu, ATM Chair. I see a hand from Is it a point of order, Councillor Zigebe? You are recognized. Can you speak?

03:33:35Thank you, Speaker. I'd like to donate my three minutes to Councillor Magwentshu. Thank you.

03:33:43Councillor Magwentshu, you have six minutes.

03:33:47Speaker, the African Transformation Movement, a member party in the minority governing parties, welcomes the city's intention to implement Phase 4 of the Debt Relief Programme, an initiative designed to relieve the growing burden of municipal debt while encouraging payment discipline.

03:34:11We acknowledge that many residents are drowning in debt not because they are reckless,

03:34:18but because they are poor, unemployed, or living on the margins of survival. Municipal bills have become unbearable for many households, pensioners, and small businesses, particularly those in townships and informal settlements. The numbers tell a story of both progress and pain. In September 2021, 128 accounts were approvedclaim

03:34:47with R10.2 million written off, and almost R3.9 million paid in the first 12 months. By October 2021, over 11,800 accounts were approved with a staggering R218 million in payments written off, and R118 million paid within the first year. These figures show that when given a chance, our residents do pay.

03:35:17Phase 3 of the programme, introduced in May 2021, took important steps expanding eligibility, linking relief to income thresholds, and tightening compliance. But as we move into Phase 4, we urge the city to ensure that this programme does not become just a technical exercise of numbers and forms,

03:35:40but a human-centred intervention that restores dignity and financial breathing room to the poor. Here is our people-centric proposal, Speaker. The ATM calls on the city to simplify the application process so that the elderly residents and poor households can access relief without the bureaucratic frustration. Broaden the eligibility

03:36:09threshold to include households earning just above the current limit, who often fall through the cracks, but are equally struggling. Extend targeted relief to unemployed youth and informal traders, many of whom operate from backyard structures or small business premises,

03:36:30but face growing arrears. Prioritize community education so residents understand that this programme is performance-based and not automatic, promoting both responsibility and relief. Strengthen transparency so that every written-off cent is accounted for, and residents see that the relief is fair and corruption-free. Peace in our land, peace in our lifetime. I thank you, Speaker.

03:36:58Thank you, Councillor Magwentshu. Councillor Harris, ACDP.

03:37:09Madam Speaker, I rise to speak to Item 5. This item asserts that this initiative is in line with Sections 96 and 97 of the Municipal Structures Act. Section 95 states though, and I quote, "In relation to the levying of rates and other taxes by a municipality and the charging of fees for municipal services, a municipality must, within its financial and administrative capacity,claim

03:37:39establish a sound customer management system that aims to create positive and reciprocal relationships between persons liable for these payments and the municipality, and where applicable, establish mechanisms for users of services and ratepayers to give feedback to the municipality or other service providers regarding the quality of the services and the performance of the serviceclaim

03:38:04provider." The MFMA August report indicates that the city is owed over R79 billion, R40 billion for over a year. We do not know how much of this is in dispute. We do not know how much is demanded from late estates and from people who have inherited debt. How much is recoverable and how much is prescribed debt is anybody's guess.

03:38:32It is noble of the city to offer some form of debt relief, even though it is for the fourth phase of a programme that has yielded relatively low returns. The question is, is the offer realistic? The customer management system is floundering. There is no indication that civil society was engaged to understand their perceptions and solutions to the debt crisis. There are pensioners and households owing tens of thousands of rand.

03:39:00Very few have the disposable income to pay 50% of their overdue accounts, let alone service the debt. Not all earn the aggregated amount of R31,000 per month. There is no relief outside of the ESP programme for the unemployed and the indigent household. Tom Peters, in his book, In Search of Excellence, says that successful people in organization talk to each other. I want to adapt this and say to the credit control department,

03:39:29don't impose your plans on citizens. Talk to them. Aim to create positive and reciprocal relationships that will attract customers to service their debts. While we welcome the Debt Relief Programme, we will ask the finance department to be less prescriptive and aggressive in their quest to collect revenue.

03:39:4920 seconds.

03:39:50This flies in the face of the MSA stipulation quoted above, and I thank you. We note this report.

Item 5: DA proposes added recommendations

03:39:57Thank you, Councillor Harris. Councillor Santana, DA.

03:40:05Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak on Item 5, the CoJ Debt Relief Programme Phase 4 to assist qualifying customers with relief from their historical debt. Madam Speaker, as one of the co-authors of the Debt Relief Programme together with the former MMC of Finance, Jolidee Matongo, may his soul rest in peace,claim

03:40:26we welcome the CoJ Debt Relief Programme Phase 4. This programme is something that is dear to my heart, and I'm extremely passionate about as it assists in bringing everyone along in the City of Johannesburg to ensure that the city remains financially stable as we move forward. However, I did try and reach out to the MMC yesterday

03:40:54to see if we could actually withdraw this item so it can go to all the relevant Section 79 committees for engagement. Although the report stipulates that there were certain portfolios that were going to be consulted, and it was unfortunate that both MPAC and Finance were not consulted on this item. It is obviously the fact that when we keep on having extraordinaryclaim

03:41:20council meetings that then mess up our scheduled council or our Section 79 sittings, plays havoc with these issues. And also noting the fact that Finance has yet to sit in the past two months. That being said, there were certain issues that going through the report, and I concur with Councillor Boer, that if it is withdrawn, that we can then iron out some of these issues that we have issues with. And that is obviously the one dealing with the customer flagged accounts.claim

03:41:50We all know that the SAP system only flags accounts for 30 days. So, how are we going to ensure that the people who have applied, that remain on the flag system till such time it's been resolved? The other issue that's come through as well is the

03:42:08MMC alludes to the fact that there's going to be a mobile app in development. Now, I'm not against developments in mobile apps for facilitating the process of allowing people to apply easily. However, we are now entering the territory of unfunded mandate, which then becomes problematic that we're not following processes within the City of Johannesburg.

03:42:33The other issue then I also had was around the meeting and reporting. The report stipulates that the reports for the Debt Rehabilitation Programme will be submitted quarterly to the Group Chief Financial Officer and annually to the Mayoral Committee and Council for policy review and refinement. The problem here is that this programme stipulates that it is only valid for a year. So, how can we then bring a report to council

03:43:00a year later after the programme has been completed? I've mentioned again the implementation plan where there's been no consultation. Madam Speaker, over and above that, in conjunction with the MMC, like I said, I did try reach out to her and unfortunately I was unsuccessful. If we are not able to withdraw the report, I do have two recommendations then that we would like to be added

03:43:25to the report. It's Recommendation 9: that the report will be submitted quarterly to the Chief Financial Officer, Section 79 Group Finance Committee, the Mayoral Committee, and Council for monitoring and evaluation and refinement, as we understand the process playing out and the glitches that are playing. And then also

03:43:49Recommendation 10: the policy review submitted annually to Section 79 Group Finance Committee, the Mayoral Committee, and Council for refinement. It's been signed on by myself and the MMC Masuku. Thank you very much.

Item 5: EFF speech and withdrawal of 'witches' remark

03:44:05Thank you, Councillor Santana. Councillor Zitha.

03:44:14Thank you again, Speaker. MMC, through you, Speaker, I thought for a second you're not going to acknowledge the contribution coming from the EFF because the EFF remain the party with superior logic, not only here in council, but the entire country. So, please, next time, make sure No, the first item, Item Number 3, but then Item Number 4, you did rectify it.

03:44:43So, thank you so much. Speaker, greetings to you, greetings to fellow councillors and the residents of Johannesburg. There's a saying in my language that says that

03:45:01Xitsongavuloyi a hi ku haha navusiku na maendlele i vuloyi. Leswi endliwaka hi DA na Freedom Front Plus i vuloyi.

03:45:10So, Speaker, as the EFF, we rise in this council to speak on Item Number 5, the City's Debt Relief Programme Phase 4. We recognize the good intention behind this programme

03:45:23Councillor Zitha, can you take your seat, please, ma'am? Councillor Maila.

03:45:35Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I think it is common knowledge that I do come from the province of Limpopo with Honourable Zitha. So, I speak and understand all of the three major languages we speak in that province: Sepedi, Xitsonga, and Tshivenda. I am rising on a point of order, Madam Speaker, to request

03:46:06that Honourable Zitha be requested to withdraw her remark about the DA and the Freedom Front Plus being witches. Thank you very much.

03:46:30Councillor Zitha, take your seat. Councillor Zitha, take your seat. Councillors, can I please ask that I rule on what was said? Councillor Zitha, I don't speak those three languages,

03:46:51but I also asked for advice, and I was told it truly is witches. So, can you withdraw the word witches? Can you please withdraw it? Now, colleagues. Colleagues.

03:47:10Thank you very much, Speaker. You are addressing me, and I do withdraw unconditionally.

03:47:15Thank you, Councillor Zitha.

03:47:19Speaker, as the EFF, we recognize the good intention behind this programme to ease the financial pressure on residents drowning in unaffordable municipal debt. The inclusion of pensioners, indigent households, small businesses, old age homes, orphanages, and non-profits shows awareness of hardship faced by our people. The EFF stated

03:47:42Councillor Zitha, just hold on. On my left-hand side, can we please?

03:47:47AfrikaansAsseblief tog,

03:47:48we are moving so nicely. Councillor Zitha, carry on.

03:47:55Thank you very much again, Speaker. The EFF stated at its 2021 local manifesto that providing free water, electricity, and sanitation to all indigent households and communities is non-negotiable baseline for dignified living. So, I'm very much happy here, Speaker. We also note the progress: expanded eligibility, 100% interest write-off, and the creation of multi-stakeholder committee to ensure oversight. Those are the steps in the right direction.

03:48:25However, Speaker, the EFF must raise firm concern. The city plans to write off 11.7 billion in debt while expecting only 6 billion in recoveries over the next three years. There's no logic. That is a massive fiscal gap that could weaken service delivery if mismanaged. Our residents fall into arrears not only because they refuse to pay,

03:48:50but because of the faulty billing, poor metering, and inflated property valuation. For example, MMC, and again through you, Speaker, is that one of the many examples is the Benche family in Ebony Park, house number 2568/16 Tshwaranang Street. The family have been sharing their meter with their neighbour, and their query is with MMC of EISD,

03:49:19Jack Sekwaila. So, until those systemic problems are fixed, every debt relief phase simply repeats the same cycle. We also warn against the moral hazard of this programme. If communication is not handled carefully, it may encourage non-payment among those expecting future write-offs. The city must make it clear that it's a once-off conditional intervention, not an open invitation to

03:49:50default. Speaker, the EFF propose

03:49:5330 seconds.

03:49:54the independent audit of approved accounts to prevent manipulation, public disclosure of beneficiaries by region for transparency, strict oversight of City Power and Johannesburg Water to ensure that metering accuracy. The EFF support this programme, Speaker. Thank you.

Item 5: ANC support

03:50:13Thank you so much, Councillor Zitha. The ANC, Councillor N. Nofemela.

03:50:28Thank you, Madam Speaker, and greetings to you, the Executive Mayor, Whip of Council, fellow councillors, and members in the gallery. Speaker, I rise to speak on Item 5, CoJ Debt Relief Programme Phase 4 that is put in place to assist qualifying customers with relief from historical debt. Madam Speaker,

03:50:55the traces of apartheid system and racial economic supremacy of the past would always haunt the lives of the majority in the country. It is for that reason that the new democratic system of government should from time to time seek to redress the imbalance of the past and clear away the scars entrenched upon the formerly economically disadvantaged section

03:51:24and the now unproductive layers of the society. Madam Speaker, the brunt of ailing economic condition is first felt by the pensioners and ESP beneficiaries who occupy the bottom part of economic ladder. Madam Speaker, the proposed Debt Relief Programme is underpinned by a robust legal and constitutional framework that empowers municipalities to manage revenue collection

03:51:55effectively while accommodating realities on the ground. Section 96 of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act 32 of 2000 and Section 195 of Act 108 of 1996 empowers municipalities to recover all revenue due, ensuring that they adopt, maintain, and implement a credit control and credit collection which is consistent

03:52:25to its rates and tariff policies. Madam Speaker, Phase 4 of the Debt Relief Programme is improving and modernizing strategies that were applied from Phase 1 to 3, and this will be monitored by the Debt Relief Programme Committee. This committee is a strategic investment in advancing the city's pro-poor agenda. It will ensure a responsible debt rehabilitation and restore the credibility of municipal revenue management.

03:52:57This programme aims to address the growing burden of unsustainable municipal debt while also acknowledging and incentivizing loyal customers who consistently honour their municipal payment obligation. We call unto all councillors, employees, and residents in the City of Johannesburg to pay their rates and tariffs consistently

03:53:24to ensure that the state of city's daily running is improved and eases the financial strain of the city. We call for the intensification of outreach programmes where residents will get as much information as they can, programmes that will bring ESP programmes closer to the resident, especially the elderly and people with disabilities. We also call unto MMC Masuku to ensure that revenue facilities have no challenges such as network failure

03:53:55and power outages that might deter residents from contributing to revenue collection. Madam Speaker, in consideration of the above-mentioned realities, the GLU has introduced the Debt Relief Programme to remove the burden on the shoulders of residents who cannot afford key services. Therefore, as the ANC, we support the approval of this item, and I thank you, Speaker.

Item 5: MMC Finance reply and approval with added recommendations

03:54:23Thank you, Councillor Nofemela. MMC Masuku.

03:54:32Thank you, Madam Speaker. Thank you to all the councillors for supporting the item. We truly appreciate that, and I think Councillor Nkonyeni used the words humility, empathy, and Councillor Harris used the words dignity, humility. Councillor Nofemela used the words relieve the burden.

03:55:01Councillor Zitha used the words support, assist, same as Councillor Santana used the same words. And I think I'm using that to show that everybody believes that this is a good programme that must be implemented to assist our residents. And thank you, Councillor Santana, for reminding us about

03:55:32the inception together with the late Executive Mayor and MMC Jolidee Matongo, who was very passionate and worked with all political parties to see this particular programme through. Speaker, as the executive, unfortunately, we can't delay progress. We can't delay the work that we need to do.

03:55:59The Chair of Chairs and your good selves, if Section 79 committees are postponed for whatever reasons, the legislature has a responsibility to make sure that those meetings sit again. And as the executive, we have to do our part, and we are doing our part as the executive. And bringing this report to council is a demonstration of that. And that is why I was amenable, Speaker, to accept because the Democratic Alliance's caucus

03:56:30recommendation is not unreasonable. They are requesting that there be oversight, that the reports be sent to Section 79. They are requesting that there's a review done yearly, and I think all of us agree to that. There is nothing wrong with that request from the caucus of the Democratic Alliance, and we will gladly accede to that request because it's reasonable. It also speaks to principles of transparency,

03:57:01it speaks to accountability and good governance. And I appreciate the fact that it was raised before. The Chairperson of the committee, Councillor Cook, also engaged me, and I said I'm more than happy, I'm amenable, and because this is for progress for all of us, so we're happy to do that. And there's nothing illegal with that kind of a request to make sure that Section 79 does the work.

03:57:30Councillor Ponsonby, through you, Speaker, we remember the good work that yourselves also you've done, and this programme is precisely to do that, to provide relief for those who cannot afford. That's why I was mentioning all the words that the councillors used in council because it's about providing that relief, as Councillor Nofemela also indicated and Councillor Zitha,

03:57:59so that our customers are able to find that. And we're happy if you can bring further suggestions. The implementation is not absolute. So, remember, as long as we've got the approval, so as we go along, you are on the ground. You know, you will get feedback from customers and communities, and they will be saying, "No, but there's a problem here. No,

03:58:30my account was flagged, or this person's account was flagged, and this issue is incorrect," and you bring those. And those are mainly administrative. They can be sorted at the back office. They can be resolved. As long as we've got the buy-in from council, at an implementation level, we are there. My office has got an escalation method as well, the Group CFO and the Acting Group Head, they also have those. So, for implementation of the Debt Rehabilitation Programme,

03:58:59as long as we are good to go, councillors, in terms of ensuring that we get this going and we do better. Councillor Harris raised a critical point of saying the returns in the past were not as much as we would have wanted, but we must also communicate it. We must make sure our residents know about it because others only knew about it when it was almost at the end. So, we must make sure our communities know about it. Ask them to come forward and make sure that business, pensioners,

03:59:29Section 21, schools, and customers, everybody benefits, and our churches as well. Engage them and make sure that they come forward to make this programme beneficial for everyone. And we are pleading, Speaker, that council approves this particular report, and we accept the request from both the Chairperson as well as the DA caucus to have included that these go to Section 79 on a quarterly basis, and we have

04:00:00a yearly review. Thank you.

04:00:03Thank you, MMC. We are just waiting to receive that recommendations. It has come to us. It was written like a doctor's prescription earlier.

04:00:18Whoa.

04:00:20It is still like that. Colleagues, I'm going to try to read

04:00:26Yoh! Okay, um we have all other recommendations on page 5.16, but this other recommendation says CoJ debt relief program

04:00:42Yoh! I'm Yo, please, if you can. I can't read this.

04:00:51So, Madam, Madam Speaker, for the record, um recommendation nine, the report will be submitted quarterly to the Group Chief Financial Officer, the Section 79 Group Finance Committee, the Mayoral Committee, and Council for monitoring and evaluation and refinement. Uh recommendation 10, the policy review submitted annually to Section 79 Group Finance Committee, the Mayoral Committee, and Council for refinement. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

04:01:22Thank you. It was proposed by myself and supported and seconded by MMC Masuku. Thank you.

04:01:30Thank you, Councillor Santana. Uh I think you're in the wrong profession. You should have been a pharmacist the way it was written. Thank you so much. Uh recommendations on pages 5.16 plus the added recommendation, is the item agreed to?

04:01:49Agreed.

04:01:50Thank you. Thank you. Colleagues, at this at this juncture, we're going to have lunch, and then we'll come back and we will then continue with all items. Uh we don't have much. If we can go quick, quick, we'll be done.

Lunch break and delayed resumption

04:02:08We'll be back at 3:00, and we must be out here by 3:45.

05:03:00Where are the whips of political parties? Can we get our members in?

05:03:10It's even worse, the whips are not here.

05:03:19Can we ensure that our members are in? We're running out of time.

05:03:24There are people that's leaving early.

05:04:52Can we start, colleagues?

05:07:05I'm going to have a last request that we ask our councillors to come in. Otherwise, we'll have to count and see whether we quorate.

05:07:20DA, are you all here?

05:07:22Can you ring the bell, Speaker?

05:07:34We were supposed to be here at quarter to. It's 10 past now. We are still not here.

05:07:46And we are strolling in.

05:07:50I have seen Action SA is here. All 27, neh?

05:07:57Are you 27 today or 28?

05:08:02I don't see 44, hi guys. I'm not squint, I can see. I don't, I it looks like I'm counting 20 something.

05:08:16MMC's, uh MMC?

05:08:20Oh, no, it's not MMC.

05:08:22Yeah, can you ring the bell, Speaker, so that they can know that they must come inside?

05:08:25Can I what?

05:08:26Ring the bell.

05:08:28No, I don't hear you.

05:08:32I'm saying, can you ring the bell, Speaker?

05:08:33We've rang we've rung the bell three times. People should know when we say quarter to, we say quarter to.

05:08:42We are grown-ups. Councillor from IFP.

05:08:48Thank you very much, Speaker. Uh Speaker, while we still waiting can I check from you, because there was uh there was a meeting last week on Friday, so we asked you to at least uh get that document. I just want to check that you have that document on your desk or you are still waiting. Thank you very much.

05:09:09We'll send it to to all of you. Uh we only received it on Monday. They will send it out to everyone.

05:09:20Those councillors that were not at the um councillor imbizo will not know what we're talking about,

05:09:29but we'll send it to you.

05:09:34And please don't ask for upper limits cause there's no upper limits. When we have to sit in council, we are not here, so there's no upper limits. We'll get upper limits next year December.

05:09:56Thank you, colleagues. Can we Can we start the meeting?

05:10:06Can we start the meeting after lunch? STC, can we be seated? No upper limits.

05:10:24Councillor Johannes, we are starting with a meeting. Thank you. Thank you.

Item 6: Terms of reference, Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities Committee

05:10:33Uh councillors, we are resuming on item six, and those are the terms of reference for Section 79 Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities Committee.

05:10:45Um

05:10:48there's no speakers on this, so we'll just ask the chair of the committee as the member in charge to table it, but there's no speakers on this.

05:11:06Um thank you very much, Chair.

05:11:11I rise to table the terms of reference for the Section 79.

05:11:15Chair Chair Zigebe, please. Colleagues, we have started. Can we please settle down? We can't even hear Chair Zigebe what he was saying.

05:11:31You were supposed to walk in at 20 to to be seated at quarter to.

05:11:37Chair Zigebe, you can take the podium.

05:11:41Thank you very much, Speaker. I rise to table the terms of reference for the Section 79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities. Let me say plainly what this means. GEOD is not a ceremonial platform or an awareness campaign. It is the city's transversal's uh conscious conscience. As we close Pride Month, we don't switch off the colours and move on. We switch on oversight. Inclusion cannot be seasonal. It must be structural.

05:12:10These terms of reference take inclusion out of speeches and put it into systems. They move us from goodwill to measurable work, work that shows up at a clinic counter, a bus stop, a housing queue, a classroom and a job interview. Speaker, with your indulgence, a brief personal note. These TORs come at a time when my own family is walking through something rigorous and painful. This past Sunday, my niece was sexually violated by someone we trusted. I will not dwell much on the details,claim

05:12:40but I will say this. Our decisions here must translate into safety, into dignity and real pathways to justice for every survivor in our city. That is why this work matters. What sets GEOD apart from any other committee is that we do not own a single service. We interrogate the human outcome of all services. City Power must show how supply plans protect medical needs households. Joburg Water must demonstrate how refurbishment prioritizes informal settlements and schools.

05:13:11Transport must prove universal access from design stage, not as an expensive afterthought. Social Development and JMPD must lay out uh live pathways for GBV prevention and response. Communications must reach residents in in formats they can actually use: sign language, Braille, plain language and all our languages. GEOD stitches these threads into one garment with and that garment is dignity.

05:13:41By adopting these terms of reference, council authorizes four pillars of practice: first, oversight with a with a people's lens, quarterly reports interrogated for for outcomes disaggregated by gender, age and disability, not just outputs delivered, but lives improved. Secondly Second, it's mainstreaming. Inclusion must be built into core departmental plans and SDBIPs, not parked in side projects.

05:14:11The third one is partnership: opening up our doors to civil society, youth formations, disability organizations and community experts so our scrutiny is grounded in lived realities, not merely spreadsheets. The third one is accountability. Where commitments slip, we will escalate, recommend recommend course correction, and track the fix until it lands. Colleagues, since I became the chairperson, we have sent invitations to members of the mayoral committee to appear before GEOD.

05:14:41Not a single MMC has come. However, received LOAs from MMC Masuku and MMC Makhafola. Adoption of these terms of reference changes that culture today. Council is saying clearly MMCs will appear when called, and they will do so prepared, with their accounting officers, their data and their plans. I'm calling on every MMC to now prioritize GEOD in your diary. If inclusion is everyone's job, then leadership must show up where inclusion is scrutinized.

05:15:11I must I must recommend officials who, without fail, will attend committee meetings. We really appreciate that. Here's how we'll work from now or from henceforth. We'll table an attendance schedule for MMCs' appearance and share it with council and the public. This is not a partisan project. Youth do not care which caucus rebuilds an internship pipeline. They care that it leads a real job. A wheelchair user does not care which coalition authorized a ramp.

05:15:40They care that they can enter the building with independence. A trans resident at a clinic does not care

05:15:45Your time is up, councillor.

05:15:46cosigned uh Therefore ask council to approve these um TORs.

05:15:50Thank you so much, Chair.

05:15:57The recommendations are on page 5.6. Is the item agreed to? Agreed.

Item 7: Electric bus trial for Metrobus and Rea Vaya, debate

05:16:07We are now on item seven, and that is the request for approval to trial an electric bus operational uh demonstration program for Metrobus and Rea Vaya BRT system to evaluate the technical, economic and operational viability of electric buses under real-world conditions.

05:16:27Thank you, STC. Action SA, Councillor S Mabelebele.

05:16:44Honourable Speaker, fellow councillors, members of the public, all protocol observed, not forgetting my caucus leader, Marcel. Speaker, this electric bus pilot is a step towards modern, clean transport. As Action SA states in its climate and environment policy, South Africa needs to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute global effects aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.

05:17:14This can only be achieved through a swift transition towards less carbon-intensive human, industrial, commercial and domestic activities. Reducing our carbon uh Reducing our carbon footprint should be uh complemented by reforestation and sustainable land management practices to enhance carbon sequestration. Therefore, as Action SA, we support this initiative because it aligns with our policy vision for sustainable,

05:17:44future-focused infrastructure and responsible governance. However, Speaker, support does not mean silence. Johannesburg deserves service delivery, not another pilot that looks good on paper, but collapses in reality. As Action SA, we would like to highlight We'd like to highlight critical risks that should be considered: depots and charging infrastructure preparation,

05:18:13grid uh, sorry, grid uh instability. We know City Power and Eskom cannot be um afterthought, no long-term maintenance and cost plan, route complexity affecting battery performance, no clear skills transfer plan to sustain this project after the trial. Speaker, we cannot speak about uh sustain

05:18:42Oh, English. Uh we cannot speak about sustainability and infrastructure readiness without confronting the Johannesburg Water crisis that has left communities dry for weeks, hospitals struggling, business disrupted and residents forced to live without dignity. If this administration cannot guarantee something as basic as water, how does it guarantee the energy security and operational capacity required for electric buses?

05:19:14These failures prove once again that good governance is not an academic term. It is a difference between dignity and suffering. Speaker, as Action SA, we have seen in Tshwane what uh disciplined leadership and proper oversight can achieve. Johannesburg must learn. Governance cannot run on slogans. It requires competence, planning and accountability.emotive

05:19:43Residents must prepare, because Action SA will build a Johannesburg that works for everyone, a Johannesburg where water flows, lights stay on, buses run reliably, and every decision is uh anchored in service, not just politics. Only Action SA can save the City of Johannesburg. We support this report. We demand delivery, not another broken promises.emotive

05:20:14As Action SA, we thank you.emotive

05:20:17And they fire you.

05:20:18Thank you, councillor. Um Chair Magwentshu from ATM.

05:20:26Speaker, I rise in strong support of the proposal before this council. Speaker, this initiative is not just about buses, it is about transformation. The city's Integrated Public Transport Network Plan aims to deliver a people-centred transport system that improves the quality of life for both current and future generations. Providing safe, accessible, affordable and environmentally friendly public transport

05:20:57is central to achieving this goal. This trial will not only allow the city to gather critical operational data, but it will also help test infrastructure readiness, such as depots and charging facilities. It will play a pivotal role in strengthening public trust in electric mobility and demonstrate Johannesburg's readiness for a low-carbon transport future. Let me emphasize the key benefits of this project.

05:21:27It supports our climate action goals by promoting low-emission urban mobility. It provides valuable performance that will shape the city's future electric bus strategies. It helps test our readiness for electric infrastructure, ensuring that future rollouts are seamless and cost-effective. And most importantly, Speaker, it contributes to public confidence in clean, efficient and modern transport solutions.

05:21:57The trial will be fully funded by participating original equipment manufacturers and private sector partners. This means there will be no financial implications for the city. All trial costs, including vehicle provision, maintenance and charging infrastructure, will be borne by the participants. This initiative is deeply rooted in our constitutional duty under section 24 of the Constitution to protect the environment for the benefit of present and future generations

05:22:27through reasonable legislative and developmental measures. Furthermore, Speaker, this trial aligns with national frameworks, including the National Land Strategic Transport Framework, the National Climate Change Response White Paper and the National Transport Master Plan 2050, all of which promote cleaner, more efficient transport systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Honourable Speaker, Johannesburg has the potential to become a leader

05:22:56in a sustainable transport innovation across Africa. This electric bus trial is not a symbolic gesture. It is a strategic step towards building a smart, green and resilient city. It is therefore recommended that council approve and authorize the Transport Department to implement the electric bus operational demonstration program with the assistance of C40 Cities, furthermore, that the council delegate authority to the accounting officer or their nominee to enter into a trial agreement

05:23:29and advertise expression of interest of original equipment manufacturers and certified pre-owned partners to supply buses and charging infrastructure at no cost to the city.

05:23:39Thank you, Speaker.

05:23:40Thank you so much.

05:23:44Councillor Zigebe.

05:23:49Honourable Speaker, Johannesburg does not need another glossy plan. Our residents need buses that arrive on time, are safe and stop choking our lungs. Item seven gives us momentum, a real a real no-cost demonstration of electric buses on actual Metrobus and Rea Vaya corridors, supported by international cities climate partners. This is a hard evidence uh sprint, not a talk shop. For 30 to 60 days per vehicle, we'll run in peak and off-peak,

05:24:20full passenger loads, climate control on up and down our hills.

05:24:24Councillor Zigebe, hold on. Frans, you are causing commotions at the back.

05:24:34Thank you.

05:24:38You can continue, Councillor Zigebe.

05:24:41Thank you, Speaker. We will measure energy use, charging times, battery strength on our gradients, operating cost, tire wear, noise and commuter satisfaction. Then we'll buy with our eyes open, not with fingers crossed. Risk sits with manufacturers. They bring the buses, the chargers, the maintenance teams, the data systems and the warranties. The city provides routes, depots and honest oversight. City Power and Eskom confirm grid readiness. Independent standards bodies and development finance

05:25:14partners, they test, verify and account the environmental and financial gains. No new money, no blank checks, no sales pitch dressed up as policy, only proof. Approve this and we move from diesel to data, from smoke to solutions. We advance our climate commitments, grow a green supply chain and deliver cleaner air and quieter streets. We show commuters that public transport can be reliable, modern and affordable. We show ratepayers that discipline and innovation

05:25:45can live in the same sentence. Colleagues, the choice is simple: keep guessing or start working or start knowing. Let us authorize the Transport Department to run the demonstration with our international partners and empower the accounting officer to conclude the required trial agreements and the expression of interest at no cost to the city. Let us say yes to evidence, yes to cleaner buses, and yes to a Johannesburg that moves. I thank you.

05:26:10Thank you, Councillor Zigebe. Councillor Rohlssen from ACDP.

05:26:19Uh thank you very much, uh Madam Speaker. Uh greetings to you all again in the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Greetings, Madam Speaker, and Executive Mayor in absentia, and uh all protocols observed. Madam Speaker, I rise on item seven, the request for approval to trial an electric bus operational demonstration program for Metrobus,

05:26:50Rea Vaya, the BRT system to evaluate the technical, economic and operational viability of electric buses under a real-world condition. Madam Speaker, the ACDP notes that the initial testing of the electrical buses and uh charging equipment will be conducted free of charge. However, when the time comes to purchase electric buses,claim

05:27:19the cost of uh replacing a diesel bus with uh with an electric bus will be three times more, as a diesel bus costs between R1.2 million and R3 million for a new uh diesel bus. A natural compressed gas bus, technological bus, will cost R6 million on average,

05:27:49and an electric bus will cost between R9 and R10 million per bus. This is a cost that the City of Johannesburg cannot afford at this time. The City of Joburg cannot even afford the cheapest of the buses, the diesel buses, which range between R1.2 and R3 million currently at current costs.

05:28:18The ACDP is concerned about this. We, however, we do approve of always having cleaner technologies available, which will not uh contribute towards pollution, but will will uh have much cleaner technology available to the city for the health of and the well-being of the residents of Johannesburg.

05:28:4832 seconds left, councillor.

05:28:50Thank you, Madam Speaker. God bless South Africa. God bless the sovereign State of Israel. I thank you.

05:28:58Thank you, councillor.

05:28:59Palestine.

05:29:03Councillor Komane from the EFF.

05:29:15Uh Honourable Speaker,

05:29:18Sepedimadume ke a o.

05:29:21Fellow councillors, officials of the city, esteemed guests in the gallery and our residents following these proceedings

05:29:37in in all platforms, warm revolutionary greetings. Speaker, I greet the Economic Freedom Fighters battalions led by uh Honourable Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku and our caucus whip, Thabiso Mogapi. Speaker, I rise

05:30:00in response to the report tabled by the Department of Transport seeking approval to conduct a trial of the electric bus operations demonstration program for the Metrobus and the Rea Vaya systems. This initiative, this initiative aims to evaluate the technical, economic and operational viability of

05:30:30electric buses under real world conditions within the City of Joburg. Speaker, the City of Johannesburg's continued effort to position itself as a world-class African city by taking a proactive and the necessary steps towards ensuring the provision of high quality, safe, accessible, affordable and

05:31:00environmentally friendly public transport is commendable. We also acknowledge that this initiative aligns strongly with the climate action plan adopted by the city in 2021, a plan that reflects our collective commitment to building a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. The implementation of this electric bus trial

05:31:30brings a number of potential benefits including, but not limited to, supporting the city's climate action goals by promoting a shift towards low-emission urban mobility, reducing the city's carbon footprint and air pollution levels, thereby improving the quality of life for our residents,

05:32:00exploring the economic and operational advantages of integrating clean energy technology into our public transport system and strengthening Johannesburg's leadership role among major cities globally that are transitioning towards green and sustainable transport solution. Let this trial not only mark a technological advancement,

05:32:30but also this decisive step towards social and environmental

05:32:3840 seconds, councillor.

05:32:39justice, where the working class and poor and the poor of our city can access dignified, affordable and sustainable public transport. Speaker, with these benefits clearly outlined and in recognition of the urgent need to transform our transport system in line with climate resilience and modern efficiency, the Economic Freedom Fighters fully support and approve the recommendations contained in this report. I thank you.

05:33:13Thank you, councillor. Councillor B Magwaza from the ANC.

05:33:25Which I've forgotten. Thank you, Speaker. Honourable, Honourable Mayor, members of council, guests and the residents of City of Johannesburg,

05:33:42isiZulungiyanibingelela.

05:33:45Let me first take this opportunity to acknowledge the great work that is done by the Executive Mayor and his team in restoring the dignity and standard of our city. Keep up the excellent work.

05:34:00isiZuluNingadinwa nangomuso.

05:34:05Speaker, today we are not just talking about buses, we are talking about the future of our city. The item before us, the electric bus operational demonstration program, is about testing, learning and preparing Johannesburg for the transition to clean modern public transport. This is a cost-free trial. Original

05:34:30equipment manufacturer will provide the buses, charges and maintenance, allowing us to gather real data on performance, cost and readiness. Speaker, through our partnership with C40 cities, Johannesburg will join global leaders in green mobility moving closer to our climate action plan, targets and our vision of

05:35:00a smart sustainable city. We often say the city must lead by example. This initiative does exactly that. It puts our commuters, our air quality and our climate commitments at the centre of progress without costing the ratepayers a cent. I, therefore, urge council to approve this report, allowing the transport department to proceed with the trial and to come

05:35:30back with the results that will shape the next generation of Johannesburg public transport system. Speaker, let's drive the future cleaner, smarter and greener Joburg as the as we all strive towards the Joburg we all want. I thank you.

Item 7: MMC Transport reply and agreement

05:35:51Thank you so much, councillor. MMC Kunene.

05:35:59Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let me recognize you, recognize the Chief Whip of the fastest growing political party in the country, not just by words, but by action, as we took Ward 29, the first ward in Soweto to be taken from our partners, but the numbers remain the same in the GNU. That's the advantage. Madam Speaker...claim

05:36:31Madam Speaker, when I took over in 2023, one of the challenges that Metrobus and Rea Vaya faced was criminality when it comes to the maintenance of bus of buses, inferior parts that were being supplied, yet Metrobus was paying for more expensive parts that were ordered, the diesel problem that we're experiencingclaim

05:37:01and all other mechanical breakdowns that Rea Vaya and Metrobus were experiencing. And having looked at the city's climate action plan, I then ordered the officials to start implementing. Madam Speaker, it is very important that as we talk of a world-class African city, we then move towards the smart mobility that we see inclaim

05:37:31bigger countries all over the world. The speakers have really done an excellent presentation for me. They have raised some of the issues that I was going to raise. I will, therefore, only respond to the issues that are more of a doubt. Councillor Mabelebele, the issue of grid instability can also be mitigated

05:38:01through alternative energy. And that is exactly what is going to happen. When I was in China, and indeed I visited one of the bus manufacturing companies who do 80% of the buses in China, and we saw the alternative energies that they have in the event of grid instability. This particular trial seeks to

05:38:31justify and also to confirm the route certainty. I must say that in 2023 we started a partnership with the University of Johannesburg to assist us with the feasibility, as they have already done a feasibility in the City of Joburg. The University of Johannesburg has shared an advice on their EV bus data not only to the City of Johannesburg, but to 26 universities

05:39:01and 27 TVET colleges. They've also advised the country, Ghana, on the EV buses and the implementation thereof. So, and the University of Johannesburg is already has already implemented electric buses. They are already running in Johannesburg. So, they have been advising us. All that we are doing with this trial is to now bring the buses onto the routes so that they can use our routes,

05:39:31and we can be able to bring factual data in terms of the cost of charging the buses, in terms of the type of batteries that must be used, but also in terms of the type of buses that we must use, because from the advice that the university has given us, you can't just buy a bus over the shelf. The routes of Johannesburg are very different. Therefore, the buses that we are going to procure must be able to

05:40:01carry a particular load that will then carry people throughout the buses. You will see in Auckland Park you've got steeps, here in Braamfontein you've got very steepy roads, you've got bridges, and that is why some of the buses in Cape Town, in the Western Cape, are standing still because the wrong type of buses

05:40:2335 seconds,

05:40:24were bought

05:40:25councillor.

05:40:25that cannot carry the loads that they are supposed to carry. Madam Speaker, Councillor Rohlssen, you cannot compare the cost of diesel buses to the cost of electric buses. In the long term you save hundreds of millions when you are procuring electric buses. Diesel buses, we have seen... In the long term you do. Diesel buses come with serious mechanical problems. Diesel buses

05:40:56come with serious challenges of theft. This has been proven all over the world, and universities are moving towards electric buses. Madam Speaker, we, therefore, ask council to approve this report. Thank you.

05:41:11Thank you so much, MMC. Councillors, the recommendations are on page 7.5. Is the item agreed to? Thank you. We're moving on to the... Councillor Christians.

05:41:34Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I didn't hear any objections to this. Can you please note that the DA will be abstaining on this item? Thank you.

05:41:43AfrikaansDankie.

05:41:45Um...

05:41:47We're on

05:41:50Next item, STC.

Items 8 and 9: Oversight reports tabled and speaking dispute

05:41:52All right. We're on item 8. Item 8 is an oversight report of the oversight sorry, of the site visit of the 14th of August 2025 to Johannesburg Water's Hursthill 1 and 2 Reservoirs.

05:42:08Member in charge, Councillor C Ngoepe.

05:42:14Thank you, Speaker. I'd like to greet yourself, the Executive Mayor and the Mayoral Committee, Chair of Chairs, um, fellow councillors, distinguished guests and our viewers at home. Speaker, I rise to table item 8, which is an oversight report for noting and approving. Thank you, Speaker.

05:42:39Thank you, Councillor Ngoepe, Chair. There's only one speaker. It's Councillor Bittkau.

05:42:49Madam Speaker, could we read item 9 in as well? I'll speak on both at the same time. [00:12:57] (no speech)

05:43:09Okay, we'll do that, Councillor Bittkau, and then we'd ask Councillor Ngoepe to re-table both of them. Just hold on, so that we can read them into record.

05:43:24Item 8, which is also read together with item sorry, item 9, which is read together with item 8, is an oversight report of the Section 79 Environment and Infrastructure Services Committee site visit to Johannesburg Water Brixton Reservoir and Tower.

05:43:38STC, just hold on. Councillor.

05:43:44Thanks, Madam Speaker, just for clarity, because it was agreed that the oversight report we don't have the speakers on. So, hence, as ActionSA we didn't submit the speakers. Maybe you can advise on that, both item 8 and also item 9. Thanks.

05:44:11I'll respond when all the howling has stopped. Whip, Chief Whip, it's your call, this. We can't avoid and not let people speak once they've given us names on the speakers list.

05:44:40I thought through the rules of council we cannot debate the oversight, so I was shocked when I see that you want to debate it. Only the DA who want to debate it. We just need to agree or to disagree. Thank you, Speaker.

05:45:10Okay. If that is what the whippery has agreed on, then we deal with it in that Councillor Christians, are you both saying the same or not?

05:45:26Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, the councillor who just got up now has challenged your ruling. The Chief Whip, the Chief Whip, sorry, I didn't... The Chief Whip has now challenged your ruling, Madam Speaker. There is a process to be followed. Even the Chief Whip has to follow it. You made a ruling that every councillor has the right to speak, whether it's an oversight or any report. The only time we can change that is if whippery stands up and says we have made a decision about this council meeting

05:45:56to do X, Y and Z. They did not do that. So, their failure cannot now be made a rule of council, which the Chief Whip had just said, and we're not dealing with quarterlies. These are oversight reports that came in for this meeting. I thank you.

05:46:10Councillor Christians, Councillor Christians, a councillor from ActionSA has asked... No, no, no. You see, you were not listening. I think you were on your phone or something. The councillor from ActionSA asked, "Speaker, we have an agreement that we do not speak on oversight items",

05:46:40right? That was your words, councillor. I then gave it to the Whip and said, "Ask the Whip. Whip, this is your jurisdiction. Can you advise us?" I cannot ask an MMC, so I asked the Whip. And the Whip said, "I am surprised that there are names for speaking on the item,

05:47:10because we've agreed that we will not discuss oversight items." And this was And if I recall, as I've been advised on both sides, it has happened, and it is happening, that we have agreed that we will not discuss oversight reports. So, there we go, and I think I'm going to and that was the Chief Whip of Council

05:47:40that has advised us. So, we are there. And the Whips agreed, and not for this meeting, but in other meetings it was agreed that they will not discuss oversight reports. And I think all the Whips are saying the same.

05:48:04Yes.

05:48:07All the Whips are saying If I look at Whips, their heads are all going like this. So, colleagues, can we uphold what was said? Councillor Christians, I've given you a chance. Councillor Bittkau, your name came this morning, and we that we have forgotten that that was that happened on this table. So, Councillor Bittkau, I'm going to give you an opportunity,

05:48:38but I'm now ruling according to what the Chief Whip has given me, and I will also remember in future that these items do not get discussed. Thank you. Councillor Bittkau.

05:48:53Are you giving me the go-ahead?

05:48:55I'm not allowing you to speak.

05:48:56Okay.

05:48:57I thought you wanted to add onto what we are saying.

05:49:00I wanted to add to the argument, because the rulings were made...

05:49:04No, councillor, coun... I have ruled. Councillor Christians, I'm done. I have ruled that according to the Whip that is what happened, and all the Whips are agreeing. I can tell you, I'm looking at Councillor Nhlakanipho Makhuba, I'm looking at Mofokeng, I'm looking at Cu, I'm looking at Mogapi, and I'm looking at the ActionSA,

05:49:35and everybody is in agreement that that is what has happened. I'm going to the next item. Thank you, colleagues.

05:49:46Councillor Christians, I've ruled in that respect. I've ruled. Councillor Christians! I've ruled! So, you agreeing, so it's Huh? No, colleagues, uh-uh, no. Can STC, can you read the next item in?

Items 8 and 9: Approval and refused caucus request

05:50:16Councillors, we are on item 9, that is read together with item 8.

05:50:22No. You [00:20:23] (no speech)

05:50:33It must be approved.

05:50:40Councillors, we're still on item 9, which is read together with item 8, and the item is an oversight report of the Section 79 Environment and Infrastructure Services Committee site visit to Johannesburg Water Brixton Reservoir and Tower.

05:51:00Thank you, colleagues. These are both the two oversights that we have just spoken about. The recommendations are on pages 8.9 and on pages 9.10. Are these items agreed to?

05:51:14Agreed.

05:51:18Councillor Christians, are you abstaining?

05:51:25Madam Speaker, before we go to the actual vote on it, we asked for a two-minute caucus, please.

05:51:33Councillor Christians, the item has been is done. We have agreed on it. The item is done. It has been agreed to. It has been agreed No, no, no. Councillor Belinda, Councillor Belinda, you don't do that. Councillor Belinda, you don't do that. Councillors, I'm not suppressing anyone. I'm going to what was agreed in the whippery, and I am

05:52:03there now, and I'm saying the item I've read out the recommendations on the pages, and we have agreed to it, and the item is closed. The item is closed! So, we're going to the next item, Councillor Christians. Are you asking for a caucus? You're not? Councillor...

05:52:32Councillor, can you get up, but I'm not going to entertain anything about the item. I've closed it.

05:52:38Madam Speaker, when you said you had ruled, my hand had gone up for a caucus break. You ignored me, Madam Speaker. I then stood up, I had my hand up again before we could close the vote. I put

05:52:50Councillor Christians, no! MMC Kunene. Let's take a Let's just

05:52:59Madam Speaker, on a point of order, you ruled. And I know that Councillor Christians have got nothing to do when he leaves council. This is an activity for him. It's an outing, it's an activity for him and others. He must stop wasting time, Madam Speaker, when you have ruled.

05:53:19MMC! I have ruled, I have ruled, colleagues, I have ruled, and I said this is what has what the Whip has given me, that everybody has agreed on that.

05:53:42isiZuluNawi, uJikijinto

05:53:43all the time.

05:53:47AfrikaansJy't nou geleer.

05:53:53Can we go to the next item, STC?

Item 10: Changes to Section 79 committee membership

05:53:57Councillors, we are on item 10, and these are changes in membership of the various Section 79 committees.

05:54:09Councillor Mofokeng.

05:54:13Speaker, how many minutes do I have? Oh, it's not here.

05:54:21We'll check the minutes now. 10 minutes.

05:54:3110 minutes, [inaudible] No, thank you very much, Speaker. I'm not going to talk 10 minutes, but there's one thing that I want to raise. Through you, Speaker, the president of the ANC at FNB Stadium said we have a lot to learn from other organizations. Now... Now, I just want to... No, no, no. I know when I'm raising these things I'm [inaudible]

05:54:59Councillor Mofokeng, can you carry on with your speech?

05:55:03Now, I'm saying the president of the ANC said we have to learn a lot of things from other organizations.

05:55:07And you must speak through me, neh?

05:55:09Yes, Speaker. And I'm saying I'm challenging the president of the ANC that there's nothing that we are going to learn from those people. One is that in the same week, in the same week, Speaker, there was a raid in the Western Cape, where 29 buildings of government were raided for corruption. That's point number one. Two... Two, 1.2, if not 1.6 billion is missing in that province.

05:55:41Unfortunately, we are not going to learn from them. Now, let me come to the actual thing, Speaker. There's nothing good in those provinces. Now, in terms of Corporate and Shared Services...

05:55:58Colleagues, can I please ask us that we can hear the person that's on the podium?

05:56:05Mashinini, Councillor Mashinini, will be an alternate, and Councillor Mzolo a full-time member. And on MPAC we're removing Councillor Mzolo, and Councillor Sindani will come in as an alternate. Thank you very much.

05:56:25Thank you, councillor. The EFF said they don't have any changes. They were on the list. Whip of council.

05:56:43Greetings again, Speaker, with the Executive Mayor in absentia, and also MMCs.

05:56:51Whip, can you speak into the mic, please?

05:56:55Okay. Greetings, Speaker, and also greeting all the MMCs and the Executive Mayor on his absentia. We just noting this to be noted in this council. We thank you.

05:57:24Thank you, colleagues. Recommendations for item 10 is on page 10.2. Is the item agreed to?

05:57:33Agreed.

05:57:35Thank you. Colleagues, colleagues, please! Councillors!

Item 12: UIFW expenditure, MPAC motivation tabled

05:57:47Councillors, item 12 is a motivation that council certify as irrecoverable and regularize irregular and unauthorized expenditure for October 2025.

05:58:00Chair Raseruthe, member in charge.

05:58:14Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, I rise to table the motivations by Section 79 Municipal Public Accounts Committee for council to certify as irrecoverable and regularize irregular and unauthorized expenditures. According to Section 32, Subsection 2 of the MFMA, a municipality must recover unauthorized, irregularclaim

05:58:46or fruitless and wasteful expenditure from the person liable for that expenditure, unless the expenditure, after investigation by a council meeting committee, I mean, is certified by the council as irrecoverable and written off by the council. Further, Speaker, according to Regulation 74, Subsection 1(d) of the Municipal Budget and Reporting Regulations

05:59:17of 2009, once a council committee has investigated the recoverability of UIFW expenditure, the committee must submit a motivation to council explaining its recommendation regarding the recoverability of the expenditure. Speaker, noting these pieces of legislation, on 28th of October 2025, the committee agreed to recommend to council that UIF expendituresclaim

05:59:51be certified as irrecoverable and regularized. These expenditures covers various core departmentsclaim

06:00:00ments. The expenditures range from 2013/14 to 2024/25 financial years. Madam Speaker, as the committee, we are encouraged that some of these matters will be referred to Disciplinary Board for further investigations where the elements of financial misconduct were identified.

06:00:28In conclusion, ma- Madam Speaker, the committee recommends that Council approves recommendations to certify as irrecoverable and regularize the expenditures as listed in the report and its annexures. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

Item 12: ActionSA and DA on unauthorized expenditure

06:00:47Thank you so much, member in charge. Um, Councillor Modukanene from ActionSA.

06:00:59It's Councillor Modukanene, Speaker.

06:01:02Thank you.

06:01:05Madam Speaker, the Executive Mayor in absentia, the ActionSA caucus, fellow councillors, residents of our beloved city, guests in the gallery, ladies and gentlemen,

06:01:17Sesothodumelang.

06:01:20ActionSA rises to speak on this important MPAC item dealing with the regularization of unauthorized and irregular expenditure amounting to over R2.5 billion. This is not a small administrative matter. It is a serious indictment on the system, controls and leadership of this city. Each figure on this report represents a failure to plan, a failure to monitor, and ultimately a failure to protect the public purse.claim

06:01:53At this rate, Madam Speaker, it is a it sometimes feels like the only thing being well co- coordinated in the city is the ability to overspend. Madam Speaker, as members of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee, we understand our solemn duty in terms of section 32 of the MFMA. We do not take lightly the recommendation to certify expenditures as irrecoverable. The committee has applied itself

06:02:26rigorously considering the investigative reports, assessing recoverability and ensuring that the appropriate corrective actions are recommended. However, our duty does not end with the adoption of this report. Over- oversight is not a seasonal exercise. It is a continuous responsibility. ActionSA therefore expects the City Manager to table within 30 days, as resolved,

06:02:54a comprehensive report on the implementation of controls and the outcomes of the required skills audit. Without this, we risk repeating the same mistakes year after year. What troubles us, Madam Speaker, is the recurrence of unauthorized expenditure, particularly under the very administration that claims to have restored stability. Overspending in departments such as Group Finance, Human Settlements, and even the office of the Executive Mayor,

06:03:24cannot be dismissed as mere technicalities. It reflects weak planning, poor financial discipline, and a lack of respect for the approved budget process. Madam Speaker, what we are witnessing is not merely administrative weakness, it is a lack of political will. When leadership loses focus on the fundamentals of governance, financial discipline becomes the first casualty. No municipality can claim to serve its residents

06:03:54while consistently overspending, underperforming, and normalizing irregular expenditure. True stability will only be achieved when accountability becomes the daily practice of this administration, not just its talking point. It's as if the city has mastered the art of spending money it doesn't have on things residents never asked for, and calling it progress. ActionSA calls on the accounting officers to ensure that

06:04:24the Disciplinary Board functions effectively. This council must move beyond treating MPAC reports as procedural formalities. Every recommendation adopted here must translate into tangible improvement, strengthen controls, credible reporting, and reduced audit findi- findings. The integrity of this city's of this city's finances depends on it. Madam Speaker, Action

06:04:50ActionSA supports this recommendations of MPAC not because we condone what has happened, but because we recognize that these are legacy matters requiring closure for compliance purposes. However, we reaffirm that irregular and unauthorized expenditure must never be normalized. This city cannot afford to be the theatre of endless investigations and political slogans, while residents wait for basic services. Accountability must be more than a word, it

06:05:22Accountability must be more than a word, it must be a standard, and I thank you, Speaker.

06:05:28Thank you, Councillor Modukanene. Councillor Suddaby.

06:05:47Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Um, just for the sake of correctness, it's Suddaby. Uh, Councillor Suddaby. Thank you, Madam Speaker. All protocol observed. I rise to speak on item 12, motivation that MPAC recommends Council to certify as irrecoverable and regularize irregular and unauthorized expenditure for October 2025. Cognitive dissonance, where what we say

06:06:17and what we do are not aligned. It's not to be taken frivolously. It causes serious mental health issues in the perpetrator and irreparable distrust in those betrayed by the lack of action that was promised. The trust deficit in the residents of our beloved city cannot be denied. If there is correlation between cause and effect, one cannot then but speculate on the condition of the mental health of this administration.

06:06:48We have a reduction of UIFW policy, and yet our UIFW register increases exponentially year on year. We say we have a commitment to obtaining a clean audit, yet the prevailing attitude remains if the AG doesn't find it, it never happened. Many words are expounded about improving service delivery and financial management, but nothing gets done. The Independent Committee report for the third consecutive quarterclaim

06:07:19indicates that for all their time and effort, this administration does not take any of their advice to heart. And don't let me get started, Madam Speaker, on the managers that are afraid to call cadres to account, resulting in mischief, mayhem, and maladministration continuing with impunity. Officials treat the committee with disdain and disrespect. As heard earlier, officials stormed out of the meeting on Tuesday. The acting City Manager has not required the entitiesclaim

06:07:51to present to MPAC their UIFW registers and the records of decisions thereto. The acting City Manager had not submitted to MPAC the monthly Regulation 36 and regula- Regulation 32 approvals signed off report. I can only hope that the new city appointed City Manager will prove to be committed to improving the financial management of our city. Residents do not trust this administration. I urge members of the amagluk-gluk executive and administrationclaim

06:08:21to closely monitor their mental health. Madam Speaker, the unauthorized expenditure investigated for this report weighs in at a staggering R2.2 billion. The main culprits of unauthorized expenditure in the City of Johannesburg are overspend triggered by unforeseen expenses not dealt with according to section 29 of the MFMA, and adjustment budgets that often immediately trigger budget overspend.claim

06:08:52Not complying with section 29 of the MFMA and allowing an adju- an adjustment budget to immediately trigger overspend is both gross financial misconduct and dereliction of fiduciary duty. The residents of our city can be very assured that every avenue that is available to the committee will be vigorously pursued to hold to account every individual responsible for financial mismanagement and dereliction of fiduciary duty.claim

06:09:23Included in this unauthorized expenditure regularization is an amount of R1.3 billion apportioned to the Group Finance Department, which comes from insufficient budget to cover legal costs, impairment of current receivables and loans loan-related funding to the entities. That revenue impairment is understated is evidence that budgets bear minimal relation to the

06:09:54lived experience of the city. A budget should be a sober estimation of the expected actual performance of the organization. This administration continues to budget with zero acknowledgment of its reality, and then to add insult to injury, it doubles down to spend that budget simply because it exists, not because it makes business sense. This administration continues to underestimate the residents' resolve to not be bullied, hence the overspend

06:10:25on legal costs mostly related to incorrect billing and illegal disconnection issues, which cases the city continually loses. A culture change is required for this ama- administration to become realistic about its prospects and to double down rather in efforts to rectify all its mistakes. Onto R363 million for entity loans and R154 million for sweeping interest, Madam Speaker.

06:10:55The Group CFO is but one of the CFOs at the CFO Forum that includes all the entity CFOs. The entities do their own thing. If the Group CFO must, in fact, report on, take questions in the section 79 committees, explain the financial performance, and carries the UIFW responsibility of the entities, then the Group CFO must also

06:11:25have the authority to direct the financial management of those entities. You cannot hold someone accountable for a thing over which they have no responsibility, no authority. Our city deserves an administration that does what it says it will do, thereby improving the mental health of its employees and increasing its residents' trust, as is proven that happens in every DA governed municipality in the entire country.

06:11:57Yes, things go awry because where there is much money, the temptation to misbehave is real. But the a DA government has systems to catch them quickly. And in those issues earlier noted, it was the DA government that requested the investigations to take place. The DA approves this report with continuing reservation and concern regarding the ever-increasing financial

06:12:29mismanagement of this administration. I thank you.

Item 12: ANC speech, camera glitch and point of order

06:12:34Thank you. Um, Councillor Mmbengwa from the ANC.

06:12:46Okay, Madam Speaker. Greetings. I appreciate. I also represent the community. Uh, Madam Speaker,

06:12:55Tshivendandi masiari.

06:12:57Eh, allow me to just first pass a very important message. Uh, tomorrow at 10:00, uh, at 9:00 in the High Court of Johannesburg a black child who has been always accusedclaim

06:13:23When we are in power, we are always accused. We are not doing these things right. We are not ruling properly. He's appearing. Uh, this camera is, uh, doing unfair with me. Uh, Speaker, Iclaim

06:13:47Madam Speaker, in my in my branch they call me yellow bone, but it's unfair to me. Please, Speaker, I demand you you you don't dock my minutes. Can that person do their justice on me? It's unfair.emotive

06:14:07I'm trying to put my smile so that I'm I'm seeable.emotive

06:14:12IT, can you please give Councillor Mmbengwa colour, please?

06:14:35You can carry on. They are still colouring you in.

06:14:40Ah, Speaker!

06:14:43isiZuluHayi mani. NgesiZulu musa ukungenza ngihlekise ezizweni, ngiyacela.

06:14:47Carry on. They're they're fixing it as

06:14:49I'm going Hold my minutes. I'm going to start when the camera is doing the proper things.

06:14:53Ah, Chair of Chairs!

06:15:02No, th- th- thank you very much, uh, Speaker. I want I stood to request that, uh, he be given an opportunity to do or make his speech in the podium there.

06:15:14Yeah, come to the front. Maybe you will look brighter.

06:15:24Councillor Mmbengwa, I just took advantage of you saying what the camera did, hey? It's not personal when I said they're colouring you in.

06:15:36Okay, thank you to stand into this podium.

06:15:39You look the same.

06:15:40We are counting from now.

06:15:43Ah, it's fine. I'm black like me. Eh, Madam Speaker, I rise here to speak in item number 12, eh, despite the

06:15:57Councillors, can we listen to the speaker?

06:16:02Yeah, I stand here to, uh, to talk on item number 12 on the UIF despite the camera discrimination that it was doing. Madam Speaker, I want to urge the citizens of Johannesburg to come in numbers tomorrow at 9:00 at the High Court in Johannesburg where the Mayor, a black child, is accused and told not to do the right things while he's doing his work.

06:16:35We understand that this is the imperialism agenda that wants to make sure that our gains of democracy where the City of Johannesburg, where

06:16:49isiZuluthina abantu abansundu

06:16:51are staying that this council will be led by the African National Congress and by a black child.

06:17:03Madam Speaker, allow me to take a little detour and visit Pretoria, the same way that Mzwakhe Mbuli in his one of his poems says,

06:17:13isiZulu"Indaba isePitoli". Ngivakashele eMadlanga

06:17:17Commission. When Minister Mchunu stood up, he said,

06:17:24isiZulu"Ngize lana

06:17:25becauseemotive

06:17:26isiZulunginuka uMkhwanazi."emotive

06:17:30Indeed, when we are when we are looking at the statement that Minister Mchunu has said,emotive

06:17:37isiZulule-reportemotive

06:17:38or the report that we have,emotive

06:17:39isiZuluinuka uSibiya.emotive

06:17:45Who is Sibiya? Sibiya is the then so-called illegal appointed GFIS head who was illegally appointed by the DA administration. Now, when I started, I said tomorrow a black child is appearingemotive

06:18:11isiZuluukuthi ayoxoxa amacala ukuthiemotive

06:18:14why is he doing his work? And we're inviting you. Now, the other opposition thinkers, they think that all the people that are appointed in this council are based on merit. They owe an explanation to an independent. And the question is, when we hire everybody, we hire them on competency.emotive

06:18:41And why must we then go and look for independent, eh, audit to audit the skills? When we apply, unfortunately, Biko has already warned us to say, "Black child, you are on your own." Now, Madam Speaker, the ANC has been consistent to say we want an open and a clean government. Madlanga Commission is on theemotive

06:19:11enforcement of making sure that everybody account, and everybody that's wrong must face music. Now, when the GFIS was established, was to make sure that the officials are accounting, and where wrong is done must be followed, investigated. Unfortunately, in that era, allow me to take a biblical tour.emotive

06:19:41Jesus Christ said unto Peter, Jesus Christ said unto Peter, "When you have repented, strengthen the brother." The ACDP will assist us. Now, the black like me child saw a wrong thingsemotive

06:20:07isiZulukulomcimbi ababembizile laphaya laba baphesheya. Waphenduka, waphuma kubo.emotive

06:20:15So, he's going to assist us to make sure that he testify on what went wrong and what was done wrongly. We want everybody to account. Like I said that the ANC is making sure that everybody's accounting. If I was writing a report in soccer, I would say the ANC is on song. I left reporting to come and then stand for my people.emotive

06:20:44Now, the money that we are talking of, yes, is indeed counting in billions. It is easy to destroy and hard, takes long to build. The the GNU government is building on the legacy which was created by the fact that when a black person is in charge, is not trusted.emotive

06:21:15That's why GFIS, when it was there, it was a tool to endorse a certain Stellenbosch agenda ofemotive

06:21:23isiZululomagogo.emotive

06:21:25Unfortunately,emotive

06:21:26isiZuluakekho ugogo ozobuya azobusa la eGoli, siyiphethe.emotive

06:21:31The African National Congress with the accountability that it wants are saying when we come in, all the committee must function from the financial accountability, whereby we make sure that those committees that deals with the accountability in finance are on board and it's working, which was rendered redundant in the time of the multiparty, evenemotive

06:22:01post Mashaba when we had the Mayor, Mpho Phalatse. Now, with all the moneys there, we are saying as the African National Congress, numerous and big as it is, we are going to recover, and we will make sure that we recover them. And we are going to make sure that the financial consequences must be applied without without lookingemotive

06:22:32on the colour of the person without looking on their al- allegiance. Speaker, can you protect me from the caucus leader of DA?emotive

06:22:45Councillor, can you continue with your speech? I'm not sure what I didn't see what she You want to speak, Councillor Belinda? Thank you.emotive

06:23:03I'd just like to call a point of order on Councillor Mmbengwa. He has missed about four mayors that was, uh, speaking over the that were serving over that period. Thank you.emotive

06:23:19Councillor Mmbengwa, can you carry on with your speech?emotive

06:23:22Thank you, because this is my minutes and I can do with what I want to do with what I have.emotive

06:23:26Councillor, your minutes are going.emotive

06:23:28Can I continue?emotive

06:23:29Can you finish?emotive

06:23:31Okay. So, in making sure that we we are going to win.emotive

06:23:38isiZuluAkekho ugogo ozobuya la.emotive

06:23:40In making sure that we make everybody accountable, we as the African National Congress, we are regularizing this, eh, UIFW, and we are going to make sure that everybody who is found on the wrong is accountable and doing the right thing. Tomorrow,emotive

06:23:59isiZulusiyanimema nisijoyine.emotive

06:24:01Come there, we are going to deal with the imperial agenda that you also know that you are part of because you are anti-black. Black person, you are on your own, Steve Biko.emotive

06:24:13Councillor Mmbengwa, thank you. Um, Chair Chair Raseruthe. Chair Raseruthe.

Item 12: Chair's closing and recommendations

06:24:29Thank you very much. Speaker, we take this opportunity and thank all, eh, progressive members of the committee and their contributions. And we, therefore, request the council to approve the recommendations, Speaker. Thank you very much.

06:24:48Thank you, um, member in charge, chair of the committee. Uh, the recommendations are on page 12.3. Is the item agreed to?

Motions, announcements and adjournment

06:25:04Uh, councillors, item seven is motions.

06:25:08Councillors, there are no motions.

06:25:12And item eight would be the announcements.

06:25:19There are no motions. The next item is announcements. You will get the, um, notice of the next council sitting. We are Your upper limits will be paid during this week or next week. We were waiting for a report. Uh, that's where we are, uh, councillors, and the meeting is adjourned.

06:25:59Hi, stranger. Oh! How you guys don't know me, you don't even give me a small tinkle to say hello, how are you? Especially That's fine. When are you still talking?