{"sitting_id":"2026-09-30-extra-ordinary-55","date":"2026-09-30","title":"55th Extra-Ordinary Council Meeting","page_url":"https://said-in-council.co.za/sittings/2026-09-30-extra-ordinary-55/","ai":"AI draft transcript (google/gemini-4-argon) of the City's livestream, not checked line by line. Check a line against the video before quoting it.","licence":"CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) for this transcript; the video remains the City's.","timeline":"start and end are seconds on the sitting-day timeline: the videos below laid end to end in order. video is the YouTube id the line is in; lang is set when the line was not English.","videos":[{"id":"n3BgTkIGjUk","duration":36819,"url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3BgTkIGjUk"}],"segments":[{"start":31,"end":54,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you colleagues, that was all for the people that has died at the hands of GBV and femicide. You may be seated."},{"start":54,"end":86,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, because this meeting is convened virtually, we have to declare the precinct in terms of rule 7 of the standing rules and orders of council. Rule 7(1): The precinct of council is the area of land and every building or part of a building under the legislature's control, including"},{"start":86,"end":122,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the chamber in which the proceedings of council are conducted, and the galleries and lobbies of the chambers, committee rooms and other meeting places provided or used primarily for council's purposes, every other building or part of a building provided or used in connection with the proceedings of council while so used, and every part of the building in which the chambers are situated"},{"start":122,"end":153,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and every forecourt, forecourt garden, enclosure or open space appurtenant thereof, thereto. In so far as it may be necessary, in a case where council or committees convene beyond the seat of council, these rules apply as if the premises where council or committees are meeting were within the precinct of council. The"},{"start":153,"end":169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"areas where you are has now been declared as a council precinct, and we will behave as we behave in council. I thank you."},{"start":169,"end":189,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Cherry is now exiting."},{"start":189,"end":219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, we have read the notice, and I will now proceed to the greetings and salutations. Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Sello Morero; Deputy Executive Mayor, Councillor Loyiso Masuku; Whip of Council, Councillor Sthembiso Zungu; Chair of Chairs, Councillor Vunani Marema; all political party leaders"},{"start":219,"end":252,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and whips; members of the mayoral committee; chairpersons of the Section 79 committees; fellow councillors; City Manager, Dr. Floyd Brink; Secretary to Council, Mr. Andile Gobinca; officials of the City of Johannesburg; residents of the City of Johannesburg; members of the media; ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you all to the 55th Extraordinary Council Meeting of the City of Johannesburg"},{"start":252,"end":276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Municipality. Councillors, we have observed, can we now observe a moment of silence in honour of the late Councillor Nyembe, who passed on recently. Can we observe that minute, and I'm asking for silence. We in the chamber will be standing."},{"start":290,"end":299,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I thank you."},{"start":299,"end":329,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, please join me in welcoming the following EFF PR councillors: Councillor M. Tshivhase, I'm sorry if I'm butchering your surname, replacing Councillor Baloyi, who resigned, and Councillor T. Tsheledi, replacing Councillor Mosehla, who also resigned. At this, at this point, I will allow the secretary"},{"start":329,"end":359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to commence with the roll call process to verify the number of councillors present. But colleagues, we have agreed that the whippery will give us the numbers of their councillors present, but we will also check, legal will check with us whether the numbers tally. So every whip will give us the numbers of their councillors."},{"start":359,"end":370,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I want to thank you all. Okay, I can see there's a hand. Who's hand is that?"},{"start":370,"end":371,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh, Speaker."},{"start":371,"end":378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Councillor, Yes, Councillor Mnyameni. You can proceed."},{"start":378,"end":394,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to the council and also to the Secretary to Council. Speaker, I just wanted maybe to correct the announcement that you just made now. Councillor Nyembe is still alive, Speaker. I don't know if they made a mistake."},{"start":394,"end":413,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no. No, Councillor. Councillor Nyembe passed on. IFP, Inkatha Freedom Party Councillor Nyembe, the ward councillor of the inner city also."},{"start":413,"end":416,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, noted, Speaker."},{"start":416,"end":436,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm giving you 5 minutes, whips, I'm going to give you 5 minutes and then the, the Secretary to Council will call on the whips from the specific caucuses so that we can get the numbers from you. I thank you."},{"start":436,"end":442,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can anyone hear, I don't have any sound here. I'm not hearing anything."},{"start":442,"end":454,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Maybe the councillor should check his own speakers on his phone or on his laptop."},{"start":454,"end":457,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Councillor De Lange here. I had my hand up."},{"start":457,"end":460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Yes, Councillor De Lange. Goeiemôre."},{"start":460,"end":463,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie, Speaker. Goeiemôre."},{"start":463,"end":479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, just for progress, I think it worked well in the past, please start with the smaller parties for our numbers. Then it gives our colleagues of the bigger caucuses more time just to double check their numbers. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":479,"end":486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. We have the 5 minutes and we will start with the smaller parties. I thank you."},{"start":640,"end":669,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, your whip will tell us who's in the meeting. We are not going to call you by names. I think you, you logged in late. That's why you did not hear what we said. We are going to ask the whips to give us who they have in. We still have two and a half minutes left."},{"start":669,"end":670,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor De"},{"start":670,"end":693,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor De Lange here. [inaudible] asked for the populated speakers' list to be sent to the whippery groups so we can distribute it to our councillors, please. We haven't received the official speakers' list. Thank you."},{"start":693,"end":706,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is this new list on the link? The new list is on the link. So if you open your link, you will find that the populated list is on the link. Thank you. Pleasure."},{"start":706,"end":707,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":707,"end":708,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pleasure."},{"start":920,"end":950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, colleagues. Your 5 minutes is over and we are going to start by calling out the political parties, and you will then give to the STC your number so that we are able to establish a quorum. And apologies if I don't see your hand, but I will be guided by others around me if hands are up."},{"start":950,"end":958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So if I'm a bit delayed, please don't blame me. Right. STC, over to you."},{"start":958,"end":971,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam. Could we start off then in confirming attendance from the ACDP? Number of councillors in attendance?"},{"start":971,"end":981,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP, are you here? And how many of you are here? Go to the next."},{"start":981,"end":991,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"My sincere apologies, Madam Speaker. I'm having a challenge with my device. The ACDP is present, and three of us are in attendance. Thank you. My sincere apologies."},{"start":991,"end":994,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":994,"end":1001,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Moving on with Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":1001,"end":1004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor De Lange?"},{"start":1004,"end":1008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Morning, Speaker. Good morning. Thank you, Speaker. We are four. We are present, one, two, three, four. Thank you."},{"start":1008,"end":1013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Thank you."},{"start":1013,"end":1020,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Proceeding with APC."},{"start":1020,"end":1027,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, and good morning. APC is here. Thank you."},{"start":1027,"end":1028,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"One, he's one."},{"start":1028,"end":1035,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Move on to GOOD party."},{"start":1035,"end":1041,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD, are you in the house? Go to the next one."},{"start":1041,"end":1046,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We proceed to UDM."},{"start":1046,"end":1050,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":1050,"end":1056,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":1056,"end":1061,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We move to ATM."},{"start":1061,"end":1090,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM, are you in the house? GOOD, I think I can see you. Can you please just acknowledge that we calling you? Yeah, there. I can see your hand. Can you just give us your voice? Unmute."},{"start":1096,"end":1102,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, GOOD, you will, oh, your, your device is acting up. Okay. Thanks, GOOD."},{"start":1102,"end":1115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're moving on to ATM. Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":1115,"end":1123,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah, are you in the house?"},{"start":1123,"end":1128,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can we hear from COPE?"},{"start":1128,"end":1139,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE, are you in the house? Next one."},{"start":1139,"end":1161,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PAC? AHC? AIC?"},{"start":1161,"end":1168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh, good morning, Madam Speaker. AIC is here. We are two, including the Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":1168,"end":1173,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. IFP?"},{"start":1173,"end":1178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Morning, Speaker. The IFP is here. We are six."},{"start":1178,"end":1180,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much."},{"start":1180,"end":1184,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. And the PA?"},{"start":1184,"end":1193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, Madam Speaker. Patriotic Alliance is 10, one late arrival, Councillor Juweira. Thank you."},{"start":1193,"end":1197,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are, how many are you currently?"},{"start":1197,"end":1199,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"10, Madam Speaker."},{"start":1199,"end":1201,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, thank you."},{"start":1201,"end":1209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thanks. EFF?"},{"start":1209,"end":1213,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Economic Freedom Fighters?"},{"start":1213,"end":1216,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello, Speaker. I'm audible?"},{"start":1216,"end":1219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are audible. Can we get your number?"},{"start":1219,"end":1225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, thank you, Speaker. Morning, everyone. From the EFF side, we are 18 present."},{"start":1225,"end":1226,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":1226,"end":1230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. ActionSA?"},{"start":1230,"end":1241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, colleagues. Thank you, Speaker. From ActionSA, we are 21 councillors present in the meeting. Thank you."},{"start":1241,"end":1246,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Can we move to DA?"},{"start":1246,"end":1255,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. The Democratic Alliance has 58, five-eight people present. Thank you."},{"start":1255,"end":1257,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":1257,"end":1262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We move to ANC."},{"start":1262,"end":1271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much. Good morning, colleagues. ANC caucus, we are 57 currently. Others are struggling to connect. I will update as soon as they are in. 57."},{"start":1271,"end":1276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you repeat? Five-seven."},{"start":1276,"end":1277,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Five-seven, yes."},{"start":1277,"end":1310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Ma'am. Can you give us 5 minutes? We just busy counting. Okay, whilst we are counting, we are also going to try the other ones that we called and did not respond because maybe people are trying to connect."},{"start":1310,"end":1321,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Could we run through GOOD again? UDM?"},{"start":1321,"end":1325,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is, apologies, GOOD is here."},{"start":1325,"end":1337,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, no, we've noted you, Ma'am. Councillor, sorry. UDM, United Democratic Movement, are you here?"},{"start":1337,"end":1378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM? ATM? Al Jama-ah? COPE? PAC? AHC?"},{"start":1378,"end":1384,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mogapi, I see your hand is up."},{"start":1384,"end":1393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. There's one councillor just joined us, Councillor Hlats, so we are 19 now. Thank you."},{"start":1393,"end":1395,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are 19?"},{"start":1395,"end":1396,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":1396,"end":1430,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. And we would ask that you, if your councillors arrive, just update it in your chat box. We will have someone that's checking the chat box so that we are able to add, and we are also able to see when people leave. With that said, we are 182 in the house today, so we will, we are quorating. 182."},{"start":1430,"end":1437,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right? Councillor Christians, your hand is up."},{"start":1437,"end":1455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, please note that we, there is, we are concerned in the manner in which we are doing quorum. We understand that it was agreed to by the whippery, but please note our concern. Thank you."},{"start":1455,"end":1476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Well, I know that in the whippery all whips agreed to this, and that is the reason why we are doing it the way we are doing it. But thank you so much for your concern. Thank you."},{"start":1476,"end":1480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed to applications for leave of absence."},{"start":1480,"end":1496,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We have not received any leave of absence. So can we see hands? I see Councillor Louw, your hand is up, from the Patriotic Alliance."},{"start":1496,"end":1504,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. We just have one late arrival, Councillor Juweira, will be joining us soon. Thank you."},{"start":1504,"end":1515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, PA. Okay. Any other hands? I see the hand of Avant-Smith."},{"start":1515,"end":1525,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. I do have LOAs: Councillor Niemand, Councillor Nkwanyana, Councillor Dewes, Counc"},{"start":1525,"end":1553,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Just, just hold on. Okay, you will also forward the list. Sorry, Councillor Smith, someone was in my ears and I can only listen to one person at a time. Please also, you must also forward the list to us. But carry on. Apologies. I heard you, Councillor Niemand."},{"start":1553,"end":1585,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no problem. Niemand, Councillor Nkwanyana, Councillor Dewes, Councillor Masera, Councillor Shackleford, Councillor Horwitz, Councillor Van Onselen, Councillor Bittkau, and Councillor Sherman have LOAs. And then for late arrivals, we have Councillor Schay and Councillor Truluck. And Councillor Finn was struggling to"},{"start":1585,"end":1591,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"log on. But I will send this to you officially now. Thank you."},{"start":1591,"end":1606,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. So one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight LOAs, and then two late arrivals and one that's struggling to get in. Nine LOAs, am I right?"},{"start":1606,"end":1608,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Correct, Speaker."},{"start":1608,"end":1615,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Right. Councillor Ndlela, Chair Ndlela."},{"start":1615,"end":1629,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you again, Speaker. I have the leave of absence for Councillor Mothopi and Councillor Mavhona. They are struggling to connect because they don't have electricity in Alexandra. Thank you."},{"start":1629,"end":1636,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, so there's two LOAs or two people that are struggling that might come in. Okay."},{"start":1636,"end":1638,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":1638,"end":1644,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And all your other councillors did not give LOAs?"},{"start":1644,"end":1646,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, not yet."},{"start":1646,"end":1665,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Ma'am. Councillor, Councillor Ndlela. Ntombela, Councillor Ntombela. Can Councillor Libon please switch off your, your, your, your video? Councillor Ntombela?"},{"start":1665,"end":1692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. From ActionSA, LOAs: Councillor Mpolobosho, family responsibility; Councillor Thema and Councillor Chuma, party business. And two councillors are struggling to join because of the network issues: Councillor Mnguni and Councillor Zwane. Thank you, thank you, Speaker."},{"start":1692,"end":1696,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I hear who's struggling to join?"},{"start":1696,"end":1701,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnguni and Councillor Zwane."},{"start":1701,"end":1711,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. So one, two, three, four, five out of, and 21 present, so five out of 44."},{"start":1711,"end":1714,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"Akere you are 44, ne?"},{"start":1714,"end":1714,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":1714,"end":1716,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":1716,"end":1722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mogapi, EFF."},{"start":1722,"end":1730,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. From the EFF, we've got two apologies: Councillor Mafuma and Councillor Thapelo, family commitment. Thank you."},{"start":1730,"end":1762,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Just two, two out of, okay, two out of 29, ne? And you are 19. There's eight short that we did not get. Okay. We'll have a discussion with whips afterwards. Thank you so much. Who's Mary? Ntombela? Is there still another one?"},{"start":1762,"end":1770,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Yes, I just want to add another councillor that just joined us, Councillor Mokoka."},{"start":1770,"end":1772,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mokoka has joined? Okay. So now you are 22."},{"start":1772,"end":1777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mokoka, yes. She's present. Yes. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":1777,"end":1800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, right. Thanks for that. Councillor Maureen Mnisi, can you please close your video? Mogapi, is your hand up again, or is it a legacy hand?"},{"start":1800,"end":1814,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Mogapi, cause I was scared my hand was gonna get lame. Thank you. Are all these apologies, do we accept these apologies?"},{"start":1814,"end":1815,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted."},{"start":1815,"end":1816,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Accepted."},{"start":1816,"end":1817,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":1817,"end":1817,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted."},{"start":1817,"end":1818,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":1818,"end":1819,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Accepted, accepted."},{"start":1819,"end":1822,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted."},{"start":1822,"end":1834,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed with item three, and that's the Executive Mayor's Question Time, of which notice has been given in terms of rule 112 subsection 1 of the Standing Rules and Orders of Council."},{"start":1834,"end":1845,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Councillor Nkonyeni, your question."},{"start":1845,"end":1870,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Speaker, thank you very much for that. Greetings to all of the colleagues. Speaker, the question I wanted to ask the Executive Mayor, Speaker, is if we have the funding to cover the PFA. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":1870,"end":1882,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Executive Mayor, Councillor Morero."},{"start":1882,"end":1895,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker, and greetings to you, Speaker of Council. Let me respond to, is it Councillor Nkonyane?"},{"start":1895,"end":1896,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Nkonyeni."},{"start":1896,"end":1913,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Nkonyeni, in this manner, that the City of Johannesburg, the collective of the Mayoral Committee and the administration through the City Manager"},{"start":1913,"end":1941,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"is engaging with the trade unions on the matter related to the PFA. Having came to this council and approved the salary scales in 2024, we are on track with the negotiations and the discussions to get to a point where finalization of the funding of the PFA is implemented."},{"start":1941,"end":1960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is where we are, Speaker, and we will then update council and the residents of Johannesburg, including the workers of the city, as we finalize the implementation of the PFA. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":1960,"end":1971,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Executive Mayor. Councillor Nkonyeni, a follow-up, or are you fine?"},{"start":1971,"end":1974,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm fine, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":1974,"end":1980,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much for that. STC?"},{"start":1980,"end":1985,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed to recommendations to council."},{"start":1985,"end":1993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, recommendations to council."},{"start":1993,"end":2000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I thought, Speaker, you'll first allow for the statements from the Mayor."},{"start":2000,"end":2013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, we can do that. It's not on, but we can do that. Yeah, by the way, it's an extraordinary, Executive Mayor."},{"start":2013,"end":2014,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":2014,"end":2029,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But I think, can we, just hold on. Legal and others, I think we can allow it. Yeah, okay."},{"start":2029,"end":2058,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's an extraordinary council, so it would then allow the Executive Mayor to do his opening statements to council. And perhaps the team on your side had missed that point. Let me then greet you, Speaker of Council, Margaret Arnolds, and to say you're quite looking fresh and ready for the new term."},{"start":2058,"end":2088,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to the Chief Whip of Council, Councillor Kazamula Chauke. Greetings to the Deputy Executive Mayor, Councillor Loyiso Masuku, members of the Mayoral Committee, leaders of different political parties and caucuses, I would want to greet you today."},{"start":2088,"end":2114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And let me begin, Madam Speaker, by acknowledging that in South Africa, when it rains during and or immediately after a cultural ceremony, it is a form of communication from our ancestors. Some view it as a blessing and others may view it as a symbol of acceptance."},{"start":2114,"end":2141,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As we close off the Heritage Month, pula should be the word of the day. And not only are we closing off Heritage Month, but we are also closing off our term of office. And therefore, I would like to say pula to all our councillors."},{"start":2141,"end":2144,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"Pula, a e ne!"},{"start":2144,"end":2145,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne!"},{"start":2145,"end":2146,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne!"},{"start":2146,"end":2148,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne!"},{"start":2148,"end":2151,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne!"},{"start":2151,"end":2154,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne, pula a e ne!"},{"start":2154,"end":2164,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"Pula ya Morero, pula ya Morero a e ne!"},{"start":2164,"end":2168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mara our this one is mhlatswa mizo. This one is mhlatswa mizo, aowa."},{"start":2168,"end":2174,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Executive Mayor, Executive Mayor, are you still speaking?"},{"start":2174,"end":2181,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"[inaudible] abantu [inaudible] eMall. [inaudible] lena amakhaza."},{"start":2181,"end":2184,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Colleagues, colleagues!"},{"start":2184,"end":2185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry, I was muted. I was muted."},{"start":2185,"end":2187,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"kunamakhaza."},{"start":2187,"end":2189,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So we do so."},{"start":2189,"end":2192,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's, can you check for me, just hold on, Executive Mayor. Can you check for me, colleagues, who is that?"},{"start":2192,"end":2198,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"yazi kuqale ngathi isithwathwa, ngithi hhayi. ibe namakhaza kancane."},{"start":2198,"end":2200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you mute him?"},{"start":2200,"end":2218,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Lebea."},{"start":2218,"end":2223,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"Councillor Lebea wa utlwala. Wa utlwala Councillor Lebea."},{"start":2223,"end":2227,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Dysfunctional."},{"start":2227,"end":2246,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Order, Councillor Lebea. The Speaker is on the platform and the"},{"start":2246,"end":2252,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Executive Mayor, you can speak."},{"start":2252,"end":2283,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your administration constantly mutes me, and I think whoever is managing the meeting should be notified not to mute me. That I note the following issues, that we are now faced with the countdown to the 4th of November and basically left with just 50 days before a new council is formed, is established."},{"start":2283,"end":2310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And as we begin this countdown, we must be thankful for the opportunity bestowed on us by the residents of Johannesburg. All of us are playing our part. We see you, we hear you, and for this, we thank you. Public service is a calling. It is an intrinsic reward that brings joy to our inner souls."},{"start":2310,"end":2335,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"If you are rewarded by external factors like money, then local government is not for you. Every day we are told about the battle for the soul of Johannesburg. I am not too sure who is fighting. However, I do know that every day, someone somewhere is trying to protect and grow Johannesburg."},{"start":2335,"end":2362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Included those who are trying to reach the people of Johannesburg through windows of hijacked buildings. Window to window is a dangerous approach, and I hope that door to door remains an important strategy. At the center of this is the need to serve and not a battle to win the soul of Johannesburg."},{"start":2362,"end":2388,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"For us, as this council led by the largest party, we managed to do the following: transform the city internally to ensure that it can be more effective in driving delivery and development; mobilize new resources; create collective vision between the city, other parts of government, and key partner organizations;"},{"start":2388,"end":2416,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"reconnect the city to communities and to empower communities to have a real voice in the future efforts of our city; define big projects that will turn the city around and clear corporate goals; integrate across departments and to center the city around clear corporate goals to ensure that the budget is strategic,"},{"start":2416,"end":2446,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and that resources are committed behind clear goals. Our results are visible. Once again, as this council, we have collectively engaged with the community of Johannesburg in order to develop an Integrated Development Plan that is owned by the people of Johannesburg, build trust, and create an enabling environment where we can all hold each other accountable, focused on energies"},{"start":2446,"end":2474,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"on delivering and basic services that change lives, transform society to the next level of development, and of course, attracted investment in an enabled growth. Fellow councillors, yesterday our President addressed us with a heavy heart. In his address, he stated the following, I quote, \"Every sphere of government must understand that the safety of women"},{"start":2474,"end":2505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"is part of its responsibility. Our constitutional obligation to jointly secure the well-being of all South Africans to assist and support one another and to coordinate our actions compels us to fulfill this responsibility,\" close quote. We cannot leave this council without acknowledging that gender-based violence is a cancer"},{"start":2505,"end":2535,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"in our society. We cannot keep quiet. We are the sphere of government that is closest to the people. We have residents, homes, shops, workspaces, shelter, clinics, schools, roads, taxi ranks, parks, community halls, and cemeteries. We are part of the security system of this country. We must do more, and we must never get tired."},{"start":2535,"end":2565,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"If one woman or girl child feels unsafe in Johannesburg, we must all rise to protect her. The growth of the economy depends on our safety strategy. Partnering with the taxi associations is an important step. Engaging with all our bylaw enforcers, including JMPD and all other inspectors, is the next step. And therefore, on Friday, I will be engaging"},{"start":2565,"end":2593,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with all of them so that we respond to the call of our President. Madam Speaker, not so long ago, in July the 3rd, 2026, in partnership with the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, we held a CEO's breakfast on red tape reduction. The CEO's red tape or breakfast"},{"start":2593,"end":2621,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"was structured to enable executive engagement with the City of Johannesburg and major private sector developers and investors. It was anchored by myself as the Executive Mayor and convened by the GGDA to create a direct senior-level dialogue on the regulatory and administrative friction that is suppressing development activity in Johannesburg's built environment."},{"start":2621,"end":2649,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The theme of the conference was \"From Approvals to Action: Accelerating Development, Investment, and Job Creation in Johannesburg.\" The red tape reduction and ease of doing business in the built environment, if investor confidence had an image, I would like all councillors to visit the internet because,"},{"start":2649,"end":2679,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and at least view the clips from the breakfast. It is clear that investor believe, investors do believe in Johannesburg. I repeat again, not so long ago, in June this year, we participated in the 2026 UCLG World Congress and Metropolis General Assembly in Tangier, Morocco, which produced concrete roadmaps on urban resilience,"},{"start":2679,"end":2710,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"housing justice, and a new generation of universal local public services. In solidarity with our global partners and networks, we are focused on supporting and implementing the assembly outcomes, which are the following: one, supporting the established political strategies and alliances for the coming decade, aiming to translate global agendas into localized rights and services;"},{"start":2710,"end":2741,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"implementing the Metropolis Strategic Action Plan of 2027 to 2029, that the Metropolis members approved strategic priorities guiding the world's largest cities, emphasizing metropolitan governance, sustainability, and resilience; committing to housing justice, elected officials signed the letters from the Local Social Covenant,"},{"start":2741,"end":2768,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"establishing concrete commitments to address the global housing crisis and fight urban inequalities; supporting the Tangier 2050 Vision, officially launched the Circular Water Resilient Metropolis initiative, which is positioning Tangier as a pioneer in tackling climate vulnerability and water stress;"},{"start":2768,"end":2797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"supporting local multilateralism in the Local Social Covenant, which is, or outlines the pathways for the next three years to better integrate local governments into local, global policy-making and protect vulnerable populations through universal public services. The Johannesburg is active in the global space."},{"start":2797,"end":2826,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Not only are we active, but we are leading. We continue to present the world with a case study that is tangible and driven by global developmental agendas. Not so long ago, we woke up to good news, and the good news are Moody's Ratings confirmed that the City of Johannesburg's ratings, credit ratings, and revised its outlook from under review to positive,"},{"start":2826,"end":2854,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"closing out the review for possible downgrade the agency opened in April 2026. This means that the city's long-term issuer rating at Ba3, which is the outlook now stands at positive. The rating action follows the Johannesburg Stock Exchange decision in May 2026 to lift the suspension"},{"start":2854,"end":2883,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"on trading in the city's debt instruments after the city published its outstanding audited financial statements for the 2024/2025 financial year with an unqualified opinion for group. Furthermore, Moody's noted that the city continued to meet its debt obligation in full and on time throughout the suspension period, servicing"},{"start":2883,"end":2910,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"R159.1 million in principal and R272.2 million in investment. Shall I remind you of our meetings with National Treasury, led by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, and supported by the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, and the Gauteng MEC, Jacob Mamabolo."},{"start":2910,"end":2938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As the Mayoral Committee and the city administration, we provided an honest and comprehensive overview of our financial status, inner-city rejuvenation projects, and infrastructure development projects. The outcome of this engagement is that Johannesburg has a robust turnaround plan, and we are all doing a great job. The city is moving from compliance response"},{"start":2938,"end":2966,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to a monitored, investment-led recovery program, and this means, Madam Speaker, we are stabilizing the city's finances, resolved the Section 216 concerns, strengthened revenue, managed liquidity, protecting creditor payments, and improved audit discipline. We are converting stability into infrastructure capacity."},{"start":2966,"end":2997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We use metro trading services reform, ring-fencing, asset data, capital prioritization, and delivery controls to renew core networks. And in July, we ring-fenced Joburg Water, and today we are ring-fencing City Power and Pikitup, making renewal visible in the inner city, and apply infrastructure reliability, safety,"},{"start":2997,"end":3024,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"urban management, and partnerships to unlock property value, investment, and revenue. And let us not forget, the city has a funded budget. Madam Speaker, all these achievements symbolizes the performance of the city. Today's meeting is transparent and accountable. Every day we undertake the mayoral high-impact service delivery program,"},{"start":3024,"end":3051,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and we can see the work we are doing. We can ask the people of Marble Towers, they thought we will get tired and never come back, but witness all departments and city entities working together to enforce bylaws and restore the dignity of Johannesburg. Yesterday we were in Ward 35 in Soweto at the Salvation Army"},{"start":3051,"end":3083,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"church for a community meeting or community dialogue, and one of the participants, Mme Thandi, asked us when is she getting a house. The time will come, most definitely, and we say this because we have put systems in place and progress is made. This council, under the leadership of this GLU, has delivered at least 8,500 title deeds,"},{"start":3083,"end":3110,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and we must thank all estimated 38,000 employees of the City of Johannesburg for all the services they provide. Not only do we thank them in words, but we thank them in action. I must thank members of the Mayoral Committee for playing their part in leading their spaces. We stand by our hashtag"},{"start":3110,"end":3142,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"#ReimaginingJoburg, #ServiceDelivery, #FinancialRecovery, #Joburg. As I conclude, honorable councillors, I lean on the teachings of Oliver Tambo when he defines leadership through collective unity, moral integrity, youth empowerment, and unwavering commitment to a non-racial democratic society when he said, I quote,"},{"start":3142,"end":3173,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"\"Let us tell the truth of ourselves, even if the truth coincides with what the enemy is saying. Let us tell the truth,\" close quote. And as we count down to the local government elections, let us be hopeful and never lose hope, because singenile, we came, sabheka, we faced our challenges, savuma, we accepted our reality."},{"start":3173,"end":3182,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are turning the corner, and we will become better. Pula. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":3182,"end":3185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Executive Mayor."},{"start":3185,"end":3188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne pula!"},{"start":3188,"end":3189,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I just want to"},{"start":3189,"end":3192,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"A e ne, a e ne pula!"},{"start":3192,"end":3193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, colleagues."},{"start":3193,"end":3195,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"Pula ya Morero!"},{"start":3195,"end":3211,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, colleagues. Thank you so much. UDM, we are seeing that you are here. Can you just tell us whether it's you?"},{"start":3211,"end":3214,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, Speaker. Yes, it's me."},{"start":3214,"end":3221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ATM, I believe you have also found the link."},{"start":3221,"end":3224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, I have. I've joined."},{"start":3224,"end":3234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC, I also see that you are here."},{"start":3234,"end":3236,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, as we go, we will"},{"start":3236,"end":3240,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I'm present. AHC."},{"start":3240,"end":3251,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yebo, I can see you. I can hear you. Thank you."},{"start":3251,"end":3262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, we will verify the rest as we go. STC, you've already read out the"},{"start":3262,"end":3264,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker?"},{"start":3264,"end":3268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, MMC Amad?"},{"start":3268,"end":3271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm also in the meeting, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":3271,"end":3279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, MMC Amad. STC, can you read out?"},{"start":3279,"end":3284,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now in recommendations to council."},{"start":3284,"end":3292,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Executive Mayor, can we get recommendations to council?"},{"start":3292,"end":3302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I stand to present recommendations for council consideration. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":3302,"end":3313,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Executive Mayor. Chair of Chairs, Councillor V. Marema. Legislature recommendations."},{"start":3313,"end":3326,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker and councillors. I rise to table recommendations from legislature for consideration. Thank you."},{"start":3326,"end":3346,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. STC. I see a hand. I think it's the hand of the Leader of Executive Business, the MMC of Finance, Deputy Executive Mayor."},{"start":3346,"end":3352,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Am I audible?"},{"start":3352,"end":3354,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are."},{"start":3354,"end":3381,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, Speaker. Good morning to the fellow councillors. Good morning to the Executive Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero. Morning to Whip of Council, Councillor Kazamula Chauke, and the Chair of Chairs, and all fellow councillors. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the executive, we would like to request to elevate the"},{"start":3381,"end":3422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"item Funding Plan, which is item 17, as well as the approval of the SDA agreement, item 13. So it's item 13, item 17, as well as the General Valuation Roll item, item 27."},{"start":3422,"end":3426,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is that all, LOEB?"},{"start":3426,"end":3452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 32, the Economic Growth Strategy and Implementation Plan. Item 32, Economic Growth Strategy and Implementation Plan. And lastly, item 26, the development of Crown Mines."},{"start":3452,"end":3462,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, can I just repeat as you have said? I hope I have them right. Item 17."},{"start":3462,"end":3464,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mhm."},{"start":3464,"end":3466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 13."},{"start":3466,"end":3468,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mhm."},{"start":3468,"end":3470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 27."},{"start":3470,"end":3472,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mhm."},{"start":3472,"end":3475,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 32."},{"start":3475,"end":3476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mhm."},{"start":3476,"end":3480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 26."},{"start":3480,"end":3482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, ma'am."},{"start":3482,"end":3497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Okay, colleagues, we will then have those items first. STC, can you read items in?"},{"start":3497,"end":3507,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're starting off with item 13, and that is the report on the approval of the addendum to the MTC Service Delivery Agreement."},{"start":3507,"end":3530,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, can I just go to the speakers list, where we are? Councillor S. Kreusch, hope I'm not butchering. Councillor Kreusch from the Democratic Alliance."},{"start":3530,"end":3534,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello?"},{"start":3534,"end":3541,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Kreusch, your minutes are starting."},{"start":3541,"end":3543,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Kreusch?"},{"start":3543,"end":3548,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Kreusch, K-R-E-U-S-C-H."},{"start":3548,"end":3577,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, great. Sorry, Speaker, I do apologize. I couldn't understand that. I'm assuming we're rising on item 13, which is the MTC item. The Democratic Alliance doesn't obviously support the item for various reasons, other than the fact that we believe that MTC should actually be incorporated back into the city,"},{"start":3577,"end":3592,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and also the fact that a lot of what is being offered there should actually be internalized rather than outsourced. So the Democratic Alliance does not support the item."},{"start":3592,"end":3600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. Can we have Councillor S. Komane from the EFF?"},{"start":3610,"end":3619,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Komane, are you in the house?"},{"start":3619,"end":3636,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, if Councillor Komane is not in, we'll go to the next councillor. Councillor J. Maake."},{"start":3636,"end":3644,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor J. Maake?"},{"start":3644,"end":3659,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Councillor Maake is not here. MMC Kunene?"},{"start":3659,"end":3681,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, MMC Kunene is struggling with connectivity."},{"start":3681,"end":3692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"LEOB, LOEB. So, Councillor Kunene is not in the meeting as such."},{"start":3692,"end":3696,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ask Council to approve the report, Speaker."},{"start":3696,"end":3725,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Colleagues, the Councillor Maake. We have already We were We have the LOEB that has already responded. Colleagues, the item, the recommendations is on pages 13.2 and 13.3. Is the item agreed to?"},{"start":3725,"end":3726,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3726,"end":3727,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3727,"end":3728,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3728,"end":3729,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3729,"end":3730,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3730,"end":3731,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3731,"end":3732,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3732,"end":3734,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3734,"end":3736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3736,"end":3738,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3738,"end":3740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":3740,"end":3741,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3741,"end":3744,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":3744,"end":3746,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3746,"end":3749,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":3749,"end":3760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed."},{"start":3760,"end":3774,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ask per political party how you agree, and you will then be agreeing for your political parties. Can I get the African National Congress? Do you agree on the item?"},{"start":3774,"end":3776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we agree."},{"start":3776,"end":3777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3777,"end":3778,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3778,"end":3780,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3780,"end":3782,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3782,"end":3784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3784,"end":3785,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3785,"end":3790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree."},{"start":3790,"end":3797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Listening is a skill, guys."},{"start":3797,"end":3800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I'm able to connect now."},{"start":3800,"end":3812,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, you are, but your item has already been ended has already ended [inaudible] your behalf asked that we agree to the item."},{"start":3812,"end":3814,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":3814,"end":3815,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":3815,"end":3816,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And And thanks to the colleagues."},{"start":3816,"end":3834,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. ANC, can I get Councillor Ndlela to give us here the response of the ANC?"},{"start":3834,"end":3840,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"[inaudible] left on Monday, back on Friday."},{"start":3840,"end":3843,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayi bo. Hayi bo."},{"start":3843,"end":3850,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm sorry. Can I get the DA's version?"},{"start":3850,"end":3855,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. The DA rejects this this one. Thank you."},{"start":3855,"end":3858,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":3858,"end":3862,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA rejects, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":3862,"end":3868,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF? Councillor Mogapi?"},{"start":3868,"end":3871,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We agree, Speaker. We agree, Speaker."},{"start":3871,"end":3876,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Patriotic Alliance?"},{"start":3876,"end":3878,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We agree, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":3878,"end":3881,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":3881,"end":3884,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP agrees, Speaker."},{"start":3884,"end":3888,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":3888,"end":3891,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC AIC agrees, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":3891,"end":3896,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":3896,"end":3901,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC AHC agrees, Speaker."},{"start":3901,"end":3911,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PAC? COPE? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":3911,"end":3914,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We agree wholeheartedly, Speaker, Al Jama-ah."},{"start":3914,"end":3921,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM? How many are you here? How many are you?"},{"start":3921,"end":3925,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let Let me double check if they're still logged on."},{"start":3925,"end":3931,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They must remain logged on. ATM?"},{"start":3931,"end":3933,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstaining, Speaker."},{"start":3933,"end":3937,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon? UIM?"},{"start":3937,"end":3942,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstaining, Speaker."},{"start":3942,"end":3947,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They're not here. UDM?"},{"start":3947,"end":3949,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstaining, Speaker."},{"start":3949,"end":3958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":3958,"end":3960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD, are you still here?"},{"start":3960,"end":3968,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we are still here, Speaker. GOOD does not agree. We believe new leaders should make the decision."},{"start":3968,"end":3976,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, I just want to hear agree or disagree. APC?"},{"start":3976,"end":3980,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC APC agree. Thanks a lot."},{"start":3980,"end":3985,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":3985,"end":3989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"VF Plus Plus says no, we do not agree. No."},{"start":3989,"end":3993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP?"},{"start":3993,"end":3997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The ACDP does not agree, Madam Speaker."},{"start":3997,"end":4008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ANC? Can I have then anybody from the ANC give me an answer?"},{"start":4008,"end":4011,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC agrees, Madam Chair."},{"start":4011,"end":4012,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much."},{"start":4012,"end":4013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC agrees. Thank you."},{"start":4013,"end":4023,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, we are just counting. Al Jama-ah, how many are you?"},{"start":4023,"end":4026,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Bless you, my brother."},{"start":4026,"end":4062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is Gwamanda still in? Councillor Amad, we are only going to mark you because you you are not giving us a response."},{"start":4062,"end":4077,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Gwamanda? Gareth Jack, we've asked UIM and you are not responding. Councillor Gwamanda, can you please speak?"},{"start":4077,"end":4088,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"My apologies, Speaker. I was just notifying you that I'm present in the meeting. I just get kicked out every now and then, but I'm in attendance. Thank you."},{"start":4088,"end":4090,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, you are two agreeing. Okay."},{"start":4090,"end":4093,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is Councillor Jack?"},{"start":4093,"end":4096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Jacks is also in, Speaker."},{"start":4096,"end":4098,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Jacks is in, so you are three."},{"start":4098,"end":4099,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Jacks."},{"start":4099,"end":4116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Can we be given time to UIM, what's your response on the item?"},{"start":4116,"end":4125,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Chair, I've just managed to get in now. I have been battling for the whole morning to get in, so I am only catching up now."},{"start":4125,"end":4142,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you please also switch off your video? Thank you."},{"start":4142,"end":4160,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Chris, much appreciated, God bless you."},{"start":4160,"end":4173,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"13, 17, 26, 27."},{"start":4173,"end":4198,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Also give you an update on the numbers. The the the ACDP still stands on three. Freedom Front Plus still stands on one. APC is one. GOOD is one. UDM is one. UIM is one. ATM is one. Al Jama-ah is three. COPE has not answered. PAC has not answered. AHC is one."},{"start":4198,"end":4202,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE is here. Speaker, COPE is here, sorry."},{"start":4202,"end":4207,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE, how do you vote on the item? COPE, COPE, how are you voting on the item?"},{"start":4207,"end":4211,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Yes, Speaker."},{"start":4211,"end":4227,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. PAC is not in. AHC is is one. AIC is two. IFP is six. PA is 10. The EFF is how many now?"},{"start":4227,"end":4228,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 22."},{"start":4228,"end":4237,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF is 22 now. Yeah. ActionSA is still on 21. 22."},{"start":4237,"end":4241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA it's on 24. ActionSA it's on 24, Speaker."},{"start":4241,"end":4251,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, no problem. The DA is 59 and the ANC has gone up to 70."},{"start":4251,"end":4253,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Councillor De Lange."},{"start":4253,"end":4256,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Councillor De Lange?"},{"start":4256,"end":4262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Just check your numbers. The VF Plus is four, and I think you said one. And the ACDP, you also said one."},{"start":4262,"end":4270,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, I said four. I said three ACDP and I said four"},{"start":4270,"end":4275,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Vryheidsfront Plus."},{"start":4275,"end":4276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":4276,"end":4295,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I said APC one. I said GOOD one. I said UDM one. I said UIM one. ATM one. COPE one. AHC one. PAC one."},{"start":4295,"end":4319,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Vryheidsfront Plus, ek weet julle is vier. Ek het vier geroep."},{"start":4319,"end":4355,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. There's two that abstained. There's 91 that said no. And there's 114 that said yes. So, the item is gone. 114. 114. Hey, I must put my teeth in right."},{"start":4355,"end":4367,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The people next to me, they thought I said 140 when I said 114. Thank you, colleagues. The item has now been carried. Can we go to the next one, STC?"},{"start":4367,"end":4380,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're proceeding with item 17, and that is the funding plan for the medium term capital budget for 2026/7 to 2028/29 financial year."},{"start":4380,"end":4399,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, STC. We are flowing. Councillor F. Mkhonza from the ACDP."},{"start":4399,"end":4404,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkhonza?"},{"start":4404,"end":4414,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, thank you, thank you, Madam Speaker, and shalom, shalom to all the colleagues. The ACDP notes the report. Thank you very much."},{"start":4414,"end":4419,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":4419,"end":4424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Vryheidsfront Plus, Raadslid Boer."},{"start":4424,"end":4427,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Goeiemôre, Mevrou die Speaker. Ek hoop dit gaan goed met jou."},{"start":4427,"end":4461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, fellow councillors, and through you, Madam Speaker, thanks to the Mayor for his farewell speech. And they bring this item up today about the the funding plan. And I think it's the the very wrong time to bring up a fan funding plan one month before the end of the term. We know the city's finances are in dire straits, but to bring this item now, you cannot borrow yourself out of bankruptcy. We cannot"},{"start":4461,"end":4462,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor"},{"start":4462,"end":4465,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid, hou net aan. Ons hou jou tyd."},{"start":4465,"end":4480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There's a councillor, Councillor Segha Komane. Councillor Komane, your hand is up."},{"start":4480,"end":4494,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Good morning to you, greetings to everyone. It's to notify you that I have experienced a technical glitch, but I'm back now."},{"start":4494,"end":4497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much."},{"start":4497,"end":4498,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":4498,"end":4499,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Boer,"},{"start":4499,"end":4502,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"kan jy maar aangaan, Raadslid?"},{"start":4502,"end":4504,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Mevrou die Speaker,"},{"start":4504,"end":4543,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the item itself is not a bad item. It addresses some of the issues that we need to address, but we have to leave this for a new term to finalize those refinancing of assets and short term borrowings, and so on, and so on. And the city's financial situation is of such a nature that we cannot negotiate preferred interest rates. We are still on a very bad spot. So, the Freedom Front is not going to approve this the funding plan over the medium term, and we're going to leave it for the new administration. Thank you very much."},{"start":4543,"end":4544,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie."},{"start":4544,"end":4550,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Edward, ActionSA."},{"start":4550,"end":4593,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise on item 17, which is the funding plan for 2026/2027 to 2028/2029 financial year. Honourable Speaker, Executive Mayor, members of Council and residents of Johannesburg, ActionSA rises to reject item 17, the funding plan for the medium term capital budget for 2026/2027 to 2028/2029. Let us be clear about what is before this Council today. This report asks"},{"start":4593,"end":4595,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I continue, Madam Speaker?"},{"start":4595,"end":4597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, I am"},{"start":4597,"end":4599,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"ubani?"},{"start":4599,"end":4609,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Molala, can we not do that? Councillor Edward, continue."},{"start":4609,"end":4614,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, can Councillor Edward be protected, please, Speaker?"},{"start":4614,"end":4653,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Nkonyeni, if you listened what I just did now. Councillor Edward, can you continue? Councillor Edward, can you continue? Your time is running. Should we go to the next speaker? Councillor Nkonyeni, please tell your councillor to log on."},{"start":4653,"end":4661,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm doing so, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":4661,"end":4663,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I audible now, Speaker?"},{"start":4663,"end":4667,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, now you're audible. Can you continue?"},{"start":4667,"end":4670,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I still audible?"},{"start":4670,"end":4677,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, you are audible. Continue."},{"start":4677,"end":4707,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This report asks Council to approve external long term borrowing of 3.5 billion in 2026/2027, 3.2 billion in 2027/2028, and 3.2 billion in 2028/2029, a total of approximately 10 billion over three years. It further proposes short term borrowing and facilities of up to 5 billion, including commercial paper and banking facilities to deal with cash flow mismatches."},{"start":4707,"end":4736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report tells us that the borrowing is affordable because the city's gearing is approximately 28% and a 45% ceiling, and because revenue collection is said to have stabilized above 90%. But Honourable Speaker, being below a debt ceiling does not automatically mean that the borrowing is financially responsible. The fundamental question that we should all be asking ourselves is can the city afford to borrow again?"},{"start":4736,"end":4769,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And the question is can the city demonstrate to all of us that it can borrow, it can spend and repay, and deliver consistent and transparent service delivery? ActionSA's concern is that this report gives Council broad authority to borrow through numerous instruments and institutions while placing significant reliance on future financial performance and future cash flows. We are being asked to approve billions in borrowing while the report itself proposes mechanisms such as refinancing of up to 5 billion rand,"},{"start":4769,"end":4802,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"alternative funding, off-balance sheet financing, public-private partnership, asset-backed financing and additional short term facilities. The report also proposes that municipal entities such as City Power, Joburg Water, and Pikitup increasingly raise borrowing directly on their own balance sheets. Together, the municipal entities account for approximately 9 billion rand of the medium term external borrowing program. We therefore cannot look at this simply as another finance report."},{"start":4802,"end":4834,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We must ask whether if every rand will be translated into reliable electricity, water, roads, waste removal, and functioning infrastructure for the residents of Johannesburg. ActionSA has previously raised concerns about the city's cash flow pressures and financial mismanagement. In 2025, the city's own reporting identified inherited debt pressures, significant outstanding consumer debts, and serious infrastructure backlogs."},{"start":4834,"end":4866,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And it is precisely why we cannot support a funding plan simply because the numbers appear to fit within a potential ratio. Borrowing is not the same thing as financial sustainability. Financial sustainability means collecting revenue, controlling expenditure, maintaining infrastructure, preventing waste, and ensuring that borrowing money produces measurable public value. Therefore, we are not opposed to the infrastructure investment. Johannesburg desperately needs this type of investment,"},{"start":4866,"end":4870,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but as ActionSA we believe that borrowing must follow credible delivery,"},{"start":4870,"end":4871,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You've got 30 seconds left."},{"start":4871,"end":4905,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"not substitute for it. Residents should not be left paying tomorrow for infrastructure that was poorly maintained, poorly managed, or poorly maintained today. Honourable Speaker, this Council has a responsibility not only to improve funding, but to protect the city's future financial position. For these reasons, ActionSA rejects item 17. We call for stronger financial discipline, greater transparency around the proposed borrowing, clear accountability for every rand borrowed, and a funding strategy that places sustainability, service delivery, and the interest of Johannesburg residents at the center of everything."},{"start":4905,"end":4908,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam, your time is up. Your time is up."},{"start":4908,"end":4909,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":4909,"end":4918,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Your time is up, Ma'am. Can we go to Councillor Santana from the Democratic Alliance?"},{"start":4918,"end":4923,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Can you hear me, Speaker?"},{"start":4923,"end":4925,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Loud and clear."},{"start":4925,"end":4958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Morning, colleagues, morning, everyone. Thank you, Speaker, I'm speaking on item 17, the medium term capital funding plan for the City of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I'm a little bit perplexed as the Democratic Alliance under GNU insisting that we're passing some of these policies now and frameworks now, one month before an election. It's almost like they want to protect themselves from the new administration coming in"},{"start":4958,"end":4989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to deal with these issues and stronghold in what needs to be done. So, I'm going to caution first that we should not be passing stuff that ultimately affects the next administration. They should be free to do what they are allowed to do. And where possible, if necessary, the Democratic Alliance will seek legal action to try and reverse some of these issues if they are implemented. But be that as it may, Madam Speaker, in essence,"},{"start":4989,"end":5022,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"again, you're asking us to look at the financial medium term capital funding plan. There is a lot changed in the last couple of weeks and the last couple of months with regards to sustainability, financial sustainability and good governance. We have interest rates that are climbing. We have rising debt levels and repayment risks. This item is asking us to look at 10 billion in the long term. Although that's not a lot of money in the big scheme of things with regards to the city's infrastructure, in fact it's almost nothing"},{"start":5022,"end":5053,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"in terms of what we owe in infrastructure and to deal with infrastructure, but the underlying issue here is we are pushing through stuff without necessarily having the new administration reviewing and possibly looking at other alternatives. The biggest issue I have is the entity borrowing under the SPOMA reform. Now, I'm not against that the entities take out their own, or we're not against that they take out their own funding. The problem here is the tracking thereof,"},{"start":5053,"end":5088,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and my understanding, of course, is that core would obviously then be what you call it, the guarantors of some of this loan funding. But it doesn't give us who is looking at in terms of the funding for each and every single one of these entities, whether it would be the board that approves the funding from their side and then it comes to Council for final approval, how is the funding model or mix going to be brought into the mix from the entity's point of view? So, the document for me is also lacking in terms of direction"},{"start":5088,"end":5119,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and in terms of how do we actually anticipate for these issues to unfold and who's going to be ultimately responsible at the end of the day. Obviously, we're not against off-balance sheet funding, it's something that we're going to have to look at anyway. But the biggest issue that I have also in this report is that the report refers to under the recommendations that the city reports over 90% collection. And yet every single report that we get states that we have failed to meet 90% and over. In fact, we're only at 87%."},{"start":5119,"end":5156,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, the report itself again is also misleading, stating that the city has collected over 90% when factually we have not. So, we have a problem there as well that we are perceiving to have certain collection targets that we have not factually met. So, there are huge problems on this report as a whole. And again I'm saying this should be deferred to the new administration after elections for it to come to Council and us for them to consider and look at possible outcomes. So, that being said, Madam Speaker, the Democratic Alliance does not support this item. Thank you."},{"start":5156,"end":5172,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Santana. Councillor Nethamba from the EFF."},{"start":5172,"end":5181,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Nethamba, EFF?"},{"start":5181,"end":5203,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's go to the next councillor. Councillor Modupi from the African National Congress. Apologies. Councillor Modupi?"},{"start":5203,"end":5208,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I was struggling to unmute myself here. Am I audible now?"},{"start":5208,"end":5211,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are."},{"start":5211,"end":5245,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, thank you, Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg and Deputy Executive Mayor and fellow councillors. I rise on behalf of the African National Congress to declare our absolute oversight support for the recommendations in this funding plan. Our oversight role is not to paralyze governance, but to ensure strategic discipline. Therefore, we must directly reject the short-sighted, conservative narrative coming from the"},{"start":5245,"end":5279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus benches. They claim it is too late, and so is DA, that we should stall this plan for the next Council under the simplistic guise that you cannot borrow your way out of trouble. Let us correct that fiscal illiteracy with raw facts. Service delivery cannot wait for a political transition. Paralyzing this plan now would be reckless sabotage of our communities. Furthermore, we are not borrowing for consumption. We are investing in capital infrastructure."},{"start":5279,"end":5310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"To ActionSA, who falsely claim that this borrowing is anomalous with financial sustainability, look at the audited balance sheet. Our consolidated group gearing ratio stands at a healthy 28%, well below our prudent 45% ceiling. This leaves us 17 percentage points of fiscal headroom. And let us address the loud denials from the Democratic Alliance who are shouting that we have not collected over 90%."},{"start":5310,"end":5345,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I urge the DA to stop playing cheap politics and read the actual official institutional tracking records. Through the aggressive implementations of our revenue turnaround strategy, including the aggressive workflow collective drive and disconnecting defaulting state organs, our collection rate has surged, hitting 90% in our active cycles. The official budget framework has structurally anchored our baseline to safeguard financial stability."},{"start":5345,"end":5379,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, stop weaponizing false accounting to justify your desperate threats to run to the judiciary. We say to the DA, stop trying to use the courts to stall the democratic decisions of this Council. You cannot litigate away the infrastructure needs of our people. Respect the legislature and respect the democratic outcomes. We fully support the recommendations to raise long term external borrowing of 3.5 billion rand for the financial year."},{"start":5379,"end":5400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Under the SPOMA ring-fencing reform, our heavy infrastructure entities, Johannesburg Water, City Power, and Pikitup, will now raise loan-funded capital directly on their own balance sheets, driving institutional accountability. This includes"},{"start":5400,"end":5415,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The R3.806 billion KfW Just Energy Transition Facility for City Power locking in a highly favorable fixed interest rate of 8.56%."},{"start":5415,"end":5430,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And the R811.3 million asset-backed financing pipeline which will save ratepayers millions through margin reductions of up to 150 basis points."},{"start":5430,"end":5450,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we are borrowing to fix the broken grids and leaky pipes that bleed our revenue base. This plan is legally bulletproof under the MFMA. The ANC supports the recommendations in full."},{"start":5450,"end":5462,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We ask this house to reject the politics of paralysis, reject judicial overreach, and vote in favor of this progressive item. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5462,"end":5476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Modupi. I just want to check has Councillor Nethamba in, or can we just mute and just go on if he's not in? Thank you so much."},{"start":5476,"end":5485,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um MMC Masuku."},{"start":5485,"end":5505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Once more, good morning to yourself, Executive Mayor and fellow councillors. Speaker, by their own admission, councillors are saying, both Councillor Boer and Councillor Edward are saying the item itself is not a bad item, I'm quoting through you, Councillor Boer."},{"start":5505,"end":5533,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Councillor Edward uh says the item on its own is a progressive it's any it's a necessary item. And I think we we have to agree with Councillor Modupi that um councils don't stop because there are elections. Councils function because we serve residents. Councils function because we have an obligation. We are elected until the 4th of November."},{"start":5533,"end":5559,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um there is no legislation that prohibits us to continue to do the work of council. And as such, we as the government of local unity are executing that mandate because we are in government and we have a responsibility to serve the residents of Johannesburg. We have a constitutional obligation to make sure that the city continues to function."},{"start":5559,"end":5578,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, um uh we are in full agreement with Councillor Modupi's sentiments that we cannot utilize an election period as a scapegoat and to circumvent work of an institution, uh that would actually be very irresponsible of us."},{"start":5578,"end":5610,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And as the government of local unity, we're very clear in our mind. We're continuing with the work of the institution because in any case, even after the 4th of November, Speaker, we are still going to continue with the work. We're still going to be in this council. So, um we are not taking any pause, and we ask councillors to support this funding plan because it's an important funding plan as articulated even by some of the councillors um who spoke, Speaker, that in essence, this is about actually ensuring that"},{"start":5610,"end":5638,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we have the ability to enable where and support borrowing for entities, as well as explore um debt refinancing, as well as utilizing other alternative sources. Because at any given point, we know that we we've never hidden that we've got cash flow uh challenges. We've been transparent in establishing how um the short-term facilities are going to be issued."},{"start":5638,"end":5666,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We've been transparent in terms of the bank facilities. We've been transparent um about the period. So, we are not There's nothing that we have uh hidden. Everything is open for councillors to scrutinize, and we ask councillors to allow the City of Joburg to function. This is about functionality. This is about the ability for us to have a bank um facilities that will enable us to do the work."},{"start":5666,"end":5693,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And of course, um the contracting and monitoring will be done as legislated. The City Manager is there, uh there's Group Treasury, the CFO is there, and this has got nothing to do with any political party. This is a process for the institution, um and that the council must approve the utilization of the existing uh facility uh to form part of the transactional banking contract."},{"start":5693,"end":5715,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As well as for us to look in the outer years as articulated in the report, so that we're able to bridge um the gazetted grants and short-term cash flow mismatches as per section 45 of the Municipal Finance Management Act. And so, Speaker, we ask council to approve this report. Thank you."},{"start":5715,"end":5737,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much um MMC of Finance. Colleagues, the debate is closed now. Recommendations are on pages 17.18 to 17.21. I am now going to do what we did earlier before people start screaming."},{"start":5737,"end":5747,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm going to go to the ACDP and ask what is your Is it a yes or a no? Please just say yes or no."},{"start":5747,"end":5750,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5750,"end":5752,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon?"},{"start":5752,"end":5754,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":5754,"end":5760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, that's ACDP. Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":5760,"end":5762,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"A definite no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5762,"end":5767,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. APC?"},{"start":5767,"end":5770,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, Speaker."},{"start":5770,"end":5774,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. GOOD?"},{"start":5774,"end":5776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5776,"end":5784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. UDM?"},{"start":5784,"end":5785,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"United Democratic"},{"start":5785,"end":5786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5786,"end":5788,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon?"},{"start":5788,"end":5790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":5790,"end":5795,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. UIM? I'm sure you heard what I said."},{"start":5795,"end":5796,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh no."},{"start":5796,"end":5797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":5797,"end":5799,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5799,"end":5805,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":5805,"end":5808,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh I vote no."},{"start":5808,"end":5818,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":5818,"end":5819,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let's move. COPE?"},{"start":5819,"end":5821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Speaker. Yes, Speaker."},{"start":5821,"end":5826,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, yes. Al Jama-ah, yes. COPE?"},{"start":5826,"end":5830,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":5830,"end":5839,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I don't think PAC has arrived. AHC?"},{"start":5839,"end":5842,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5842,"end":5851,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. AIC?"},{"start":5851,"end":5860,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mhlongo?"},{"start":5860,"end":5867,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is he there?"},{"start":5867,"end":5868,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":5868,"end":5870,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":5870,"end":5880,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mm-mm. Who's answering on behalf of AIC? I don't know that voice. IFP?"},{"start":5880,"end":5882,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5882,"end":5885,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. PA?"},{"start":5885,"end":5888,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5888,"end":5893,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":5893,"end":5900,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I'm worried the system keep on removing my councillors. I don't know what's happening. Can you please check for me?"},{"start":5900,"end":5909,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can't check for you. I can't check for you. It is where they are. But we'll check how many of them are in here."},{"start":5909,"end":5910,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. We vote yes."},{"start":5910,"end":5912,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":5912,"end":5914,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5914,"end":5917,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":5917,"end":5920,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":5920,"end":5923,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"African National Congress?"},{"start":5923,"end":5927,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":5927,"end":5943,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC, are you back? Have you been in the gents or in the kitchen? Okay. Thanks."},{"start":5943,"end":5958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Colleagues, just give us time just to add. Nkonyeni?"},{"start":5958,"end":5964,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Please record ActionSA's dissent on this item. Thank you."},{"start":5964,"end":5976,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You said no, and now you are saying dissent. So what is it? Are you abstaining?"},{"start":5976,"end":5979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Speaker, we are saying no."},{"start":5979,"end":5989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, yes. We got that no the first time. It can't be no, no."},{"start":6026,"end":6031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The sound, is there a problem with sound?"},{"start":6031,"end":6044,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There's no problem with sound. We said we are counting so that we can know what the numbers are. So we have been counting."},{"start":6071,"end":6092,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, councillors. The counting is done. Uh abstain is 000. Um the no's is 93, and the yes's is 117."},{"start":6092,"end":6097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"136 you need."},{"start":6097,"end":6115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's Who's playing in my mouth when I'm talking? And it seems like a very seasoned Alderman. It's like an Alderman that was in my mouth. I haven't I haven't finished."},{"start":6115,"end":6133,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"For this item, we need 135 plus one, which makes it 136. So, the item is not carried. Thank you."},{"start":6133,"end":6158,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh councillors, we are now on item 26, which is the amendment of the development lease agreement in respect of Erf 56 Crown North, Johannesburg in terms of Section 116, Subsection 3 of the Municipal Finance Management Act of 2003."},{"start":6158,"end":6168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 26. Can I get Councillor B. Nkomo from the DA?"},{"start":6168,"end":6190,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much uh Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Speaker, um may I please allocate my time to Councillor Christians? I'm feeling very um generous this morning. Thanks."},{"start":6190,"end":6216,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Christians. Seems like he can't unmute himself. Councillor Gareth Jack, can you please can you please close your video? It's taking the bandwidth."},{"start":6216,"end":6221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Councillor Christians, if you're not here, we go over to the next councillor."},{"start":6221,"end":6247,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I am here. Uh it's just that your reception at times drops so we can't hear you. Madam Speaker, thank you very much. Uh Madam Speaker, on this item, it is clear that this lease taken in 2019 for an open public uh space uh is now up for an extension. But the extension flies in the face of what the community has asked,"},{"start":6247,"end":6268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"because there has been no oversight of this property by officials, leading to what was rezoned for parking uh continuing to be used for business. And now they are trying to regularize that by asking for it to be rezoned to Business 3."},{"start":6268,"end":6295,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, if you look at the report, there is no um recommendations in terms of other departments in terms of safety of this land. And if you go to this land, you will see that this land has overhead pylons which do not allow for business, and that is why initially it was uh to be used only for parking."},{"start":6295,"end":6314,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But the inhabitants of this property continue to use it for business. So, uh when this lease expires in 2029, they know they will not be able to get it because the residents association has already objected to them on more than one occasion."},{"start":6314,"end":6357,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, if you go back on this, this property has got a lot of value to the city, yet we continue to lease it out for parking at a very low rate, yet the the people utilizing it are making a lot of money off the city. Uh numerous um times you have we have seen that government departments have gone in there because not only is this property being used by many illegal foreigners, it is being used for goods that are not of high standard and therefore uh in contravention of what should be coming into the country."},{"start":6357,"end":6377,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, if I can go back to when this entire thing started, it started already in the early 2000s uh where this property was simply taken over uh in conjunction with the ANC councillors in charge and been and used for business. It was tried to be regularized as business,"},{"start":6377,"end":6400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but could not because the community was living right at its doorstep and continually complained about businesses being uh business being run throughout the day and late into the night. Madam Speaker, we have not respected the residents by giving this park away to be used for for parking."},{"start":6400,"end":6418,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, furthermore, when this came to council previously, we saw that uh Madam Speaker, do I stop? There's two hands up."},{"start":6418,"end":6425,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Whose hands is up there? Councillor Mmbengwa."},{"start":6425,"end":6443,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, please, man. Can Councillor Christians withdraw the aspersions and allegation to say that those uh spaces were used by the ANC councillors wrongfully? Can he withdraw that part?"},{"start":6443,"end":6453,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Councillor, the councillor says that you need to withdraw that because"},{"start":6453,"end":6456,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Which rule is he using?"},{"start":6456,"end":6461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that? Was it you, Councillor Christians?"},{"start":6461,"end":6466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker, I'm waiting for your ruling."},{"start":6466,"end":6468,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"72."},{"start":6468,"end":6479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh-uh. Wait, colleagues, why are we doing this? And the other voice I said earlier on, it's an Alderman that's talking."},{"start":6479,"end":6502,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mmbengwa. Councillor Christians, can you withdraw? Um because the councillor says it's not true what you are saying. But then can I get the hand of MMC Amad?"},{"start":6502,"end":6507,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Amad, your hand was up."},{"start":6507,"end":6510,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a legacy hand, Speaker, I'm covered. Thank you."},{"start":6510,"end":6518,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Councillor Christians, can you withdraw saying that uh ANC councillors, please?"},{"start":6518,"end":6536,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Madam Speaker, uh I withdraw the use of ANC councillor, but the then ward councillor who was an ANC councillor. Can I do that? Because I did not say what the person said I must withdraw. I did not say any ANC councillor was utilizing the land."},{"start":6536,"end":6548,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But you are still saying it's an ANC ward councillor. Can you withdraw that it was used by the ANC councillors because it is not factual. We don't know what happened."},{"start":6548,"end":6558,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, as I said, I cannot withdraw something I did not say. I did not say it was being used by an ANC councillor. I did not say that. And the recording will reflect that."},{"start":6558,"end":6560,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What did you say? What did you say?"},{"start":6560,"end":6583,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I said in this started in 2000, and the ANC ward councillor was had given over this land to the official uh to to the people who then regularized it into a building. I did not say they were using it."},{"start":6583,"end":6590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ja, neh? The turning of words. Okay. You can carry on."},{"start":6590,"end":6597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, Madam Speaker, uh with this now once again being utilized for parking is now being asked to go"},{"start":6597,"end":6604,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Just hold on. Just hold on, Councillor Mmbengwa, and tell us on what rule are you standing."},{"start":6604,"end":6630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm still standing on Rule number 72. Saying the same simple things. Councillor Christians is alleging that it is the ANC councillors. There is a recording of what he's saying. If we replay that thing, this is what you are saying. And he's casting uh uh he's casting allegations to say that it was the ANC councillors."},{"start":6630,"end":6631,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":6631,"end":6640,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I have been I have worked long enough with councillors of the ANC since 2000, councillor in my ward. And I've worked"},{"start":6640,"end":6653,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Councillor Mmbengwa, we get what you are saying. Uh we will rule on it now. Councillor Belinda."},{"start":6653,"end":6673,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I think you've partially uh going in the direction that I was going to remind you that you are allowing a point of order on a point of order, which is against the rules. Um so, since you have said that you are going to rule, I'm going to park it there for you to continue. Thanks."},{"start":6673,"end":6690,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Dankie. My ruling remains exactly the same as I said. And I'm saying to Councillor Christians, Councillor, carry on. Stop mentioning political parties. Thank you."},{"start":6690,"end":6718,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, uh it is clear that the manner in which it was done in 2000 is now occurring in 2026 where they were uh the people who have applied for this land have moved from wanting it initially for parking, and now want to go to exactly where the residents said they would go, and we did and the officials did not believe them."},{"start":6718,"end":6752,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They now want to regularize it and make it business, which will infringe on the rights of those residents staying right there, and it will ensure that what was the initial purpose of the lease then is now continued because nobody is actually standing up for the residents. Madam Speaker, with that, the Democratic Alliance will not allow for the rights of residents in a residential area to be trampled by people who are just looking for their own gain, their personal gain, and for the gain of their colleagues and their cadres."},{"start":6752,"end":6757,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, this is why the DA will not support this item. I thank you."},{"start":6757,"end":6777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Councillor Dladla from the Economic Freedom Fighters?"},{"start":6777,"end":6798,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Dladla, are you in the house? No. ANC Councillor S. Molefe. Oh, sorry, Councillor Belinda, I see your hand is up. It's difficult for me because I don't have a gadget in front of me."},{"start":6798,"end":6821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I'm just going to put on record um since um everybody has finished speaking and you only saw my hand now. Uh I'm going to put on record that we will be writing to the Rules Committee with regards to your ruling where you have ruled that um the Councillor Christians should not be using political party."},{"start":6821,"end":6840,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I would like to put it on record because uh councillor in Ward 67 um Modupi has mentioned political parties on repeated occasions in his speeches and in his responses, and you have not made the same ruling. So I just wanted to put that on record. Thank you very much."},{"start":6840,"end":6852,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":6852,"end":6865,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Dladla, if you're not in the house, we're moving to Councillor Molefe from the African National Congress."},{"start":6865,"end":6893,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, thank you very much uh Madam Speaker. Let me greet the Executive Mayor, the Chief Whip of Council, the Chair of Chairs, members of the Mayoral Committee, and councillors of the world-class African city, ladies and gentlemen. Madam Speaker, I rise to address item 26 concerning the proposed amendment of the development lease agreement in respect of Erf 56 Crown North."},{"start":6893,"end":6926,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The purpose of this report is to table the reason for the proposed amendment of the development lease agreement of Erf 56 Crown North in terms of section 113 of the Municipal Finance Management Act number 56 of 2003. The report asks council to consider the reasons for the proposed amendment of the existing development lease and to facilitate the statutory process required in terms of section 113 of the Municipal Finance Management Act."},{"start":6926,"end":6952,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The property was released on tender and award was made by the Executive Adjudication Committee for the lease of the property for a period of 9 years and 11 months, exclusively for parking purposes in line with its approved zoning right. The report records that the development proposal is expected to provide the following."},{"start":6952,"end":6979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, council must note that this development will provide 400 permanent employment opportunity, which it will assist the city to address the issue of unemployment. This development will approximately provide 600 construction jobs, which it will assist the City of Johannesburg to address the issue of poverty."},{"start":6979,"end":7005,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"156 individual retail outlets or SMMEs will be provided to enable economic growth in the City of Johannesburg. Approximately R31 million development cost on this particular development, which it will address the issue of investment, with rental income of R135,000 per month."},{"start":7005,"end":7032,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, please note that Councillor Ricky Nair, representing Ward 56, he's in support of this item. Therefore, Madam Speaker, we cannot claim to be representing the community and the resident of the City of Johannesburg while we continue to decline or reject the development that will address the issues that are faced with our people."},{"start":7032,"end":7056,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Our people are faced with unemployment. So, the issue of unemployment, Madam Speaker, it will only be addressed if, as councillors, we note such a report, and we are in support of this report because of this report, Madam Speaker, it's not for individual purposes, uh this report, it's addressing the issues that are affecting our people on the daily basis."},{"start":7056,"end":7081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There are people who are not working, they are unable to provide for their families, and as councillors, we come in this council meeting and then we reject such report. And when we go outside there campaigning, we claim to our people that we are for the people, we stand with the people. But at the very same time, we come in this council meeting, we reject the report that's supposed to create jobs for our people."},{"start":7081,"end":7106,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, Madam Speaker, as the ANC, we cannot at any point reject such uh such uh development that will bring stability to our people, that will uplift the lives of our people, especially the poor of the poorest. So, that is why, Madam Speaker, as the ANC, we are saying we note and we are in support of this particular report. I thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7106,"end":7116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I thank you, Councillor Molefe. Um MMC Mnisi."},{"start":7116,"end":7126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good morning, Madam Speaker, the Chief Whip, Executive Mayor, fellow MMCs and councillors. We are requesting council to approve the report. Thank you."},{"start":7126,"end":7159,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Mnisi. I'm going to do the exercise that we did earlier on. Um the recommendations are on pages 26.8, and we are going to ask whether the item has been agreed to. So, I'm going to go through the list again, and I just want a yes or a no so that we can be progressive. ACDP?"},{"start":7159,"end":7161,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":7161,"end":7165,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":7165,"end":7166,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":7166,"end":7169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":7169,"end":7172,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes."},{"start":7172,"end":7180,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":7180,"end":7182,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":7182,"end":7186,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Says yes, ma'am. Madam Speaker."},{"start":7186,"end":7200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM? United Democratic Movement? Okay. UIM?"},{"start":7208,"end":7213,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, ATM."},{"start":7213,"end":7215,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":7215,"end":7223,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":7223,"end":7224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":7224,"end":7228,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":7228,"end":7230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You're not clear. Yes, Speaker."},{"start":7230,"end":7234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"A yes, okay. COPE."},{"start":7234,"end":7236,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, thank you."},{"start":7236,"end":7245,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PAC, I believe they've still not arrived. AHC."},{"start":7245,"end":7249,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":7249,"end":7253,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, AIC."},{"start":7253,"end":7256,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker, from AIC. Thank you."},{"start":7256,"end":7261,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":7261,"end":7262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":7262,"end":7266,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":7266,"end":7268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7268,"end":7273,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":7273,"end":7275,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7275,"end":7278,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":7278,"end":7282,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7282,"end":7285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":7285,"end":7285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sell out ActionSA."},{"start":7285,"end":7289,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam."},{"start":7289,"end":7302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Colleagues, can I ask that we don't mess in each other's mouths? Can we just respect each other?"},{"start":7302,"end":7305,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I was with the DA now. DA."},{"start":7305,"end":7308,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7308,"end":7314,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. African National Congress."},{"start":7314,"end":7317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7317,"end":7323,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Zigebe, I see you. I believe your hand is up."},{"start":7323,"end":7333,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, apologies. When you called me, I had bandwidth and electricity issues here. Uh it's a no from the UDM when you called me. I tried speaking, but I noticed that you could not hear me. Thank you."},{"start":7333,"end":7343,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No problem. You should come through and come and sit in the chamber. There's electricity."},{"start":7343,"end":7345,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Gareth."},{"start":7345,"end":7346,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":7346,"end":7349,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Gareth."},{"start":7349,"end":7357,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh it's a no, Madam Speaker. My apologies, I had a connection problem."},{"start":7357,"end":7387,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's UIM. Thank you. Uh 2 minutes, we are counting you."},{"start":7387,"end":7390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":7390,"end":7393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Simonse, yes."},{"start":7393,"end":7403,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I just put in the notes earlier on that Councillor Juwera has joined us, so we officially 11 in council today. Yes, ma'am."},{"start":7403,"end":7405,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor."},{"start":7405,"end":7409,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":7409,"end":7439,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, yeah, we've been progressive at the table. We did uh count her in. So we have seen that when we see when people come in and we also see when they go out. That's why you'd find the numbers at one it goes like this and at another one it goes like that. Okay, no one abstained. Uh those that said no, that was going to scream, \"No!\" they are 90."},{"start":7439,"end":7460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And those that screamed, \"Yes!\" they are 119. Thank you, colleagues. Let's go to the next item, STC. It's carried. It's carried. Sorry, colleagues. Hey! I'm sitting with so many people talking in my ears."},{"start":7460,"end":7476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Councillors, we are on item 27, and that's the request for extension of the period of validity of the general valuation roll for 2023 from the 30th of June 2027 to the 30th of June 2028."},{"start":7476,"end":7484,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Did we have item 27? Okay. Oh, okay, I see."},{"start":7484,"end":7493,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Item 27 is Raadslid Boer."},{"start":7493,"end":7497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Mevrou die Speaker. Um, dankie vir die geleentheid. Um,"},{"start":7497,"end":7521,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"welcome to fellow Councillors again. I rise on item 27, the request for extension of the period of validity of the general valuation roll. Um, the report is quite concerning. Um, where it says that they are undercapacitated, um, they've got uh only five vacancies,"},{"start":7521,"end":7545,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What they also said from the funded positions, since October last year, 12 people has resigned. And that is quite concerning. Why are people resigning uh in a country where unemployment is at such a high rate? Um, so it's a concerning uh note that we see in this report. Um,"},{"start":7545,"end":7566,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But having said that, um it is of such an importance that we do a proper valuation roll, and if we don't have the capacity to do it now, um it is the most logic thing to extend it by a year, which is allowed in terms of the Act. So uh the Freedom Front is supporting this item,"},{"start":7566,"end":7588,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we're also uh putting questions mark why are people resigning from this department uh just a year ahead of the new valuation. And that is something that really needs to be investigated um and get a solution for that. But uh the Freedom Front support this item. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":7588,"end":7591,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie, Raadslid Boer."},{"start":7591,"end":7599,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, Councillor N. Edward from ActionSA."},{"start":7599,"end":7630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, uh Madam Speaker. I rise on item 27, extension of the general valuation roll 2023. Honourable Speaker, Executive Mayor, fellow Councillors, and residents of Johannesburg, ActionSA rises to reject item 27. This report asks Council to approve a request to the MEC for Local Government to extend the validity of the city's 2023 general valuation roll"},{"start":7630,"end":7659,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"from 20 June 2027 to 30 June 2028. The report relies on the Municipal Property Rates Act, which allows such an extension in exceptional circumstances. Honourable Speaker, the most important issue before us is not whether an extension is legally possible or not. The question is why is the city uh once again asking residents to carry the consequences of its own capacity"},{"start":7659,"end":7683,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and administrative failures? The report itself provides a concerning list of reasons. The property branch has a serious shortage of valuers. Of 86 positions, 81 are funded, and yet 12 valuers resigned since October 2025, while the recruitment process has been delayed by the city's recruitment and additional approval processes."},{"start":7683,"end":7710,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report further tells us that the city has one valuer for approximately every 13,000 properties, compared with the industry guidelines of one valuer for between 8,000 and 10,000 properties. We also learn that the critical CAMA modelling specialist resigned in May 2026, and that four modelling positions are currently vacant. There is no valuation panel in place to support the valuation of"},{"start":7710,"end":7740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"specialized properties. Essential aerial imagery has been delayed by procurement processes, while the city's valuation systems have experienced instability. And perhaps most concerning, the Development Planning has allegedly failed to provide critical information such as occupation certificates, building plans, and zoning information timeously, despite requests over the past two years. The report itself says these problems create a risk of unstable"},{"start":7740,"end":7766,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and highly contestable valuation roll with potential revenue uh and litigation. Honourable Speaker, these are not minor administrative inconveniences. A valuation roll determines the properties' values upon which municipal rates are based. The city's own report, therefore, acknowledges that poor quality information can affect revenue collection and the credibility of the rates base."},{"start":7766,"end":7790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA cannot simply ask an extension as a solution when the report demonstrates that the underlying problem are capacity, recruitment, procurement, systems, and interdepartmental coordination. The city now wants another year to fix these problems, but what guarantees does Council have that the same problems will not simply bring us back where we are uh today?"},{"start":7790,"end":7819,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report proposes that the additional year be used to recruit critical personnel, appoint a valuation panel, secure aerial imagery, uh stabilize systems, improve valuation modelling, and obtain the necessary information from Development Planning. ActionSA's position is simple: residents deserve a credible valuation roll, not another extension of an administration that has failed to get the necessary systems"},{"start":7819,"end":7847,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and capacity in place on time. We support accurate and fair property valuations. We support a rate system that is transparent and defensible, but accountability must accompany every request for an extension. Honourable Speaker, ActionSA therefore rejects this report because we cannot support extending the current valuation roll without sufficient confidence that the city's underlying capacity and governance failures"},{"start":7847,"end":7868,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"have been properly addressed. Johannesburg residents deserve a valuation system that is accurate, fair, reliable, and properly administered. We therefore call on this Council to demand accountability to correct the current status quo rather than to simply extend this deadline. I thank you."},{"start":7868,"end":7878,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Santana from the DA."},{"start":7878,"end":7908,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, um I rise to speak on item 27, the extension of the general valuation roll uh 2023 general valuation roll from the 30th of June 2027 to the 30th of June 2028. Madam Speaker, yeah, the report does highlight a lot of concerns uh with regards to capacity constraints, the loss of critical skills, the absence of a valuation panel, the procurement delays, system instability,"},{"start":7908,"end":7938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and incomplete data from planning. But nowhere does this report highlight or give us confidence um with regards to what action's been taken, uh what consequence management has been taken against the relevant departments that are upholding or uh not allowing this department to actually function as intended. Um so yes, we are extremely concerned as the Democratic Alliance around the fact that this department has been so undercapacitated, um and literally this falls right and direct onto the City Manager"},{"start":7938,"end":7970,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for not dealing with these issues. Um yes, it does sadden me or sadden us for the fact that again, the city has in all the years I've been a Councillor never managed to do the general valuation roll within four years; we've always extended it to five years. Uh I think what's also lacking in this report is the timelines. When do we anticipate these issues to be resolved, and what are the consequences if they are not resolved? Because this puts a lot of pressure um, you know, on the next administration"},{"start":7970,"end":7995,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to deal with these issues and capacity constraints. Um, but that being said, we obviously also understand that uh it is where it is at this point in time; we need to be realistic in terms of how we're going to meet those obligations, and also ensure that we have a general valuation roll which is accurate and fair to residents. Um, so that being said, the Democratic Alliance will support the extension for the general valuation roll. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":7995,"end":8004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Santana. Councillor Nethamba from the EFF."},{"start":8004,"end":8009,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. The EFF supports this report."},{"start":8009,"end":8017,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nethamba. ANC Councillor Modupi."},{"start":8017,"end":8047,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Thank you again, Madam Speaker. Uh let me greet you for the second time again with the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Executive Mayor, as well as the Councillors. Thank you for allowing me to take the floor for the second time today. Madam Speaker, I rise on behalf of the African National Congress to support the recommendation to extend the general valuation roll 2023 to June 2028."},{"start":8047,"end":8077,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As the ANC, our oversight role is to protect the financial sustainability of this city, and a thorough analysis of this item shows that rushing a certified roll by January 2027 would be fiscally irresponsible, exposing Joburg to extreme revenue volatility and severe litigation. Madam Speaker, let us be completely honest."},{"start":8077,"end":8108,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let us be completely honest with this house. The core issue driving this request is capacity, and capacity alone. The opposition benches will try to reject this extension, claiming it is an administrative failure, but their argument ignore the harsh operational reality, particularly from uh Councillor Edwards. We have a severe resource shortage. Out of 81 funded positions,"},{"start":8108,"end":8137,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"12 qualified valuers have resigned since October 2025. Yes, the International Property Tax Institute states the ideal industry standard is one valuer to a maximum of 10,000 properties, yet our remaining team is drowning under an unsustainable ratio of one to over 13,000 properties. Furthermore, the recent resignation of our mass appraisal modeller"},{"start":8137,"end":8167,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"left all four critical modelling posts completely vacant. Combined with supply chain delays in securing essential aerial imagery and technical stability issues on the Ovivo valuation system, our team simply does not have the manpower required to complete a credible roll on time. Rejecting this extension is a vote for chaos. Pushing forward"},{"start":8167,"end":8197,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"without capacity guarantees a flawed, highly contestable valuation roll that will trigger public outcry and collapse our rates base. This additional year is a responsible strategic intervention to break the recruitment moratorium, onboard critical interns, and build the capacity to deliver a bulletproof roll by 1 July 2028."},{"start":8197,"end":8227,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And this will be able to address all those concerns Councillor Mpuumi uh raised. As the African National Congress, we got experience in governance. And this cannot be disputed because facts are there for everyone to see. You know, Madam Speaker, the City of Johannesburg was built in 1886, and in the next"},{"start":8227,"end":8257,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"110 years, from 1886 to 1996, two diabolical regimes, colonial and apartheid regimes, built about 6,600 km of road networks and surfaced those roads in the City of Johannesburg for a period of 110 years. African National Congress came. In less than 30 years,"},{"start":8257,"end":8287,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, African National Congress managed to surface 5,800 km of road networks. That shows that African National Congress has got experience in governing. We want to rebuild uh this City of Johannesburg. I believe that we are going to show the world that African National Congress is the only organization that can deliver in short notice what other"},{"start":8287,"end":8317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh systems can deliver in 110 years. Madam Speaker, as the African National Congress, we are supporting these recommendations, and we are also saying to the city residents, by the 4th of November, they should not make mistake. They should go out and vote for the African National Congress so that we cannot be stopped, as you saw that our funding plan"},{"start":8317,"end":8347,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"were rejected on the basis that ANC do not have absolute majority. We are tired of finding ourselves in coalition governments. Residents must restore back the dignity of Johannesburg so that decisions can be taken and be implemented easily. As the African National Congress, as I indicated to you, we support recommendations in full. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8347,"end":8369,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. MMC Masuku, Deputy Mayor."},{"start":8369,"end":8377,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Deputy Executive Mayor."},{"start":8377,"end":8382,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report asks Council to approve."},{"start":8382,"end":8393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I think she has a network problem."},{"start":8393,"end":8404,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Deputy Mayor. Can you try again?"},{"start":8404,"end":8415,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Madam Speaker, I think even if she was not that much audible, she was requesting the Council to approve the report."},{"start":8415,"end":8428,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I need her or one of the executives to say that to us. Councillor MMC Mnisi."},{"start":8428,"end":8433,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I did say so, Speaker. I think you didn't hear me."},{"start":8433,"end":8453,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Thank you so much, ma'am. Thank you. Colleagues, the recommendations are on page 27.6. Um we are going to do the same exercise quickly, yes or no. Okay? ACDP."},{"start":8453,"end":8455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":8455,"end":8457,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":8457,"end":8459,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":8459,"end":8463,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC."},{"start":8463,"end":8465,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes."},{"start":8465,"end":8473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":8473,"end":8479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":8479,"end":8480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes from GOOD, Speaker."},{"start":8480,"end":8483,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":8483,"end":8485,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UDM."},{"start":8485,"end":8487,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":8487,"end":8490,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":8490,"end":8492,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8492,"end":8495,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":8495,"end":8497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8497,"end":8505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":8505,"end":8508,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah. Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8508,"end":8509,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":8509,"end":8511,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8511,"end":8512,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":8512,"end":8515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":8515,"end":8519,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":8519,"end":8521,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":8521,"end":8524,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":8524,"end":8526,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":8526,"end":8529,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":8529,"end":8532,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8532,"end":8534,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":8534,"end":8536,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8536,"end":8542,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":8542,"end":8545,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8545,"end":8547,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":8547,"end":8549,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8549,"end":8552,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":8552,"end":8555,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8555,"end":8557,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":8557,"end":8560,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":8560,"end":8576,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, I think it is carried because we don't even have to give you numbers. It's only ActionSA that said no. Thank you, colleagues, the item is carried. STC, next item."},{"start":8576,"end":8580,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Where do ActionSA live?"},{"start":8580,"end":8589,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Colleagues, can we not do that?"},{"start":8589,"end":8609,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Councillors, we are on item 32, and that is the Economic Growth Strategy and Implementation Plan."},{"start":8609,"end":8632,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Nkomo, DA. Oh, I forgot there's more than one Nkomo. It's Nkomo. Councillor Nkomo from DA."},{"start":8632,"end":8638,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, Madam Speaker, are you calling me? Sorry, the line is quite bad on my side."},{"start":8638,"end":8649,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Councillor Nkomo. We are on item 32, and I have called your name because you are the first speaker."},{"start":8649,"end":8656,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right. Uh thank you very much, um Speaker."},{"start":8656,"end":8661,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Please switch off your phone. We are still in Council."},{"start":8661,"end":8691,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right. Um thank you, Speaker. Um I rise to speak on item 32, which is the Economic Growth Strategy for the City of Johannesburg. Colleagues, Johannesburg does not suffer from a shortage of strategies; we suffer from a shortage of implementation, maintenance, and basic service delivery. And that is why the DA cannot support this item in its current form. Let me start by saying that there is much in the strategy that we agree with. We want investment,"},{"start":8691,"end":8721,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we want jobs, we want thriving township economies, we want SMMEs to grow, we want the inner city to be revitalized. But economic growth cannot be built on collapsing infrastructure. In fact, the city's own Economic Growth Strategy admits this. It identifies unreliable services, infrastructure backlogs, and weak project preparation as constraints to growth. It specifically acknowledges electricity problems, water and sanitation failures,"},{"start":8721,"end":8747,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"road and stormwater backlogs, and transport challenges. So the diagnosis is there. The problem is whether this administration has demonstrated the ability or secured the funding to deliver the cure. This strategy speaks about positioning Johannesburg as a high-tech heart of Africa, promoting digitalization, catalytic projects, and economic"},{"start":8747,"end":8751,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Nkomo, please switch off your phone."},{"start":8751,"end":8781,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I have, Madam Speaker, it's um on silent. Um just a moment, Speaker, let me just close an app. So the diagnosis is there. The problem is whether this administration has demonstrated the ability or secured the funding to deliver the cure. The strategy speaks about positioning Johannesburg as the high-tech heart of Africa, promoting digitalization, catalytic projects, and economic corridors."},{"start":8781,"end":8812,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, before we become a high-tech heart of Africa, we need to become a city where the water flows, the lights stay on, the roads are maintained, and the sewer network works. And here is where we should look at Cape Town. Cape Town is not merely producing strategies; it is putting money behind the basics. For the 2026-2027 uh financial cycle, the DA-led City of Cape Town has protected a 40 billion rand three-year basic infrastructure program."},{"start":8812,"end":8844,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That includes 16 billion for water and sanitation, 6 billion for electricity infrastructure, and 3.6 billion for roads, pothole repairs, and stormwater infrastructure. And importantly, we can see implementation. In 2025-2026 alone, Cape Town's Urban Mobility Directorate delivered 2.5 billion in capital projects, alongside a 1.6 billion spent on infrastructure for the expansion of the MyCiTi. That is the difference, Speaker."},{"start":8844,"end":8874,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Economic development follows functioning infrastructure. Businesses do not invest because a municipality has produced a 142-page strategy. They invest where electricity is reliable. They invest where water infrastructure works. They invest where roads move goods effectively. They invest where approvals are predictable and government actually delivers. Even this Johannesburg strategy recognizes that projects should move through proper stages: concept, feasibility,"},{"start":8874,"end":8904,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"funding, procurement, implementation, precisely so that aspirational project list is not mistaken for a funded implementation program. Yet Council is being asked to approve a program whose funding model relies substantially on public, private, and blended finance. Speaker, ambition without execution is not a growth strategy; it is a wish list. Johannesburg has enormous potential. We remain the economic heart of this country, but if we genuinely want growth,"},{"start":8904,"end":8937,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"then we must first build the foundations upon which growth depends. Fix the infrastructure, protect the electricity network, repair the roads, restore water and sanitation, make it easier for businesses to do business. Get the basics right, and then investors will have a reason to believe in Joburg's promises. The DA supports economic growth, we support investment, we support jobs, but we will not confuse another strategy document with actual delivery. For those reasons, the Democratic Alliance cannot support this item. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":8937,"end":8950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nkomo. EFF Councillor Dladla."},{"start":8950,"end":8955,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. On behalf of EFF, we note the report. Thank you."},{"start":8955,"end":8972,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Councillor Kwapeng from the ANC."},{"start":8972,"end":8979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Councillor Kwapeng is not here. MMC Mnisi."},{"start":8979,"end":8985,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker! Greetings, Speaker. It's Councillor Kwapeng here."},{"start":8985,"end":8987,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":8987,"end":9000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, uh Speaker. Uh greetings to you, Executive Mayor, members of the Mayoral Committee, and fellow Councillors, officials, and residents of Johannesburg."},{"start":9000,"end":9041,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I rise on item 32, the Economic Growth Strategy and Implementation Plan. The first point that you must place on record is that this is an approval item. The council has been asked to approve the Economic Growth Strategy and its implementation. This strategy therefore provides more than a statement intent. It establishes the framework through which Johannesburg intends to organize its economic development intervention. If the strategy's thrust is job opportunity creation and sustained economic growth, that focus is particularly relevant in the current economy."},{"start":9041,"end":9067,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Statistics South Africa reported an official unemployment rate of 33%, 33.6% in the second quarter of 2026 with 8 million unemployed people. Youth unemployment stood at 47.4%. This figure demonstrates why it is important we need to do the strategy."},{"start":9067,"end":9070,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, switch off your phone."},{"start":9070,"end":9076,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, we'll do that Speaker."},{"start":9076,"end":9117,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, I'm back Speaker, sorry about that. The figure demonstrating why economic development must remain focused on productivity, economic participation, unemployment and enterprise development. Honourable Speaker, the strategy vision is to position Johannesburg as a high tech, sustainable, inclusive and innovation led economy. It seeks to achieve this through industrial diversification, strong local value chains, township economy digitalization, infrastructure renewal, skills development, investment partnership and inner city revitalization."},{"start":9117,"end":9140,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The strategy is structured around five pillars, an enabling nodal development, cluster development, linkage and corridors development and inclusive economic development. SMMEs and entrepreneurship development cuts across these pillars and these are important direction."},{"start":9140,"end":9178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But the real test begins after the approval. Honourable Speaker, one of the strength of the strategy is recognition that the economic development must be evidence based. The strategy undertook a policy review, situation analysis, spatial analysis and opportunity analysis before moving towards strategy prioritization. Projects are then subjected to categorization, prioritization and this strategy identifies critical inputs including economic growth, spatial planning, transport, social inclusion and governance."},{"start":9178,"end":9209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Projects are then assessed and prioritized according to the strategy importance. This is important because the city cannot implement every possible economic project simultaneously. Therefore, the prioritization is important. There must be prioritization, there must be readiness, there must be feasibility, there must be funding and there must be an accountable institution responsible for delivering this."},{"start":9209,"end":9252,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, the strategy makes an important distinction between municipality outputs and economic outcomes. This city can directly influence certain outputs. For example, service reliability, project preparation, business support, investment facilitation, land use coordination, urban management and access to municipal markets. But economic outcomes, investment, productivity, enterprise expansion, employment and household income cannot simply be assumed."},{"start":9252,"end":9296,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They must be measured. This principle should guide our implementation and oversight. A successful economic development program is not simply one that holds workshops, signs agreements and launches programs. We must ultimately ask: Did the business expand? Was an investment mobilized? Were jobs created? Did enterprise enter the value chain? Did the household income improve? Did the intervention change the economic condition of the targeted areas? Those are the questions that should inform the council oversight."},{"start":9296,"end":9311,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, the strategy also recognizes infrastructure as a fundamental of economic development. Business cannot operate effectively without reliable infrastructure."},{"start":9311,"end":9341,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Water, electricity, roads, storm water, transport and digital connectivity all influence the cost and reliability of doing business. Strategy therefore proposes infrastructure led economic growth, particular economic nodes and high potential corridors. This requires a strong coordination across the city. Economic development cannot attract investment while other parts of the municipality system are unable to provide the infrastructure that investment requires."},{"start":9341,"end":9365,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The strategy itself recognizes the need for the stronger interdepartmental coordination, clear mandates, reporting lines, reliable data, effective project management. This is therefore not only economic development strategy. It requires a citywide implementation approach."},{"start":9365,"end":9400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, the strategy also places significant emphasis on small SMMEs and township economy. This is particularly important. Economic inclusion should mean more than counting how many entrepreneurs attended the program. The city should measure whether businesses become more sustainable. Can they access the market? Can they access finance? Can they enter formal value chains? Can they supply large businesses?"},{"start":9400,"end":9418,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can they participate in the public-private procurement? Can they employ more people? These are the outcomes that matters. The same applies to township economy development. Township economy development should not be treated as a separate from the mainstream economy."},{"start":9418,"end":9461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The strategy emphasis on value chain integration creates an opportunity to connect township enterprise to larger markets and economic system. Honourable Speaker, the strategy also identifies digital transformation, green economy development and the skills as important components. This is particularly relevant as the economic structure changes. The city must prepare residents and enterprise for emerging opportunities in technology, logistics, green industry, digital services, tourism, creative industries and other identified growth areas."},{"start":9461,"end":9491,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"However, skills program must also be linked to actual economic demand. Training people without creating pathways into employment or enterprise is inefficient. The city should therefore measure relationship between skills demand, skills provided, placement, enterprise creation and unemployment."},{"start":9491,"end":9522,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, the strategy financial framework also requires careful oversight. It proposes public-private and blended financing. It seeks to use catalytic public funding to unlock large private and donor investment. This can help the city leverage resources. But the council must distinguish between projects that has identified funding pathway and the projects that merely appear in the strategy."},{"start":9522,"end":9537,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The strategy itself provides an important safeguard by proposing a staged project development process, apologies. Projects should progress from concept through pre-feasibility,"},{"start":9537,"end":9538,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"30 seconds, Councillor."},{"start":9538,"end":9568,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"feasibility and procurement. Speaker, while we as the ANC would like this item to be approved, we wanted to come back to Councillor Nkomo not to compare Cape Town with Johannesburg because in Johannesburg all areas that we govern are all treated fairly. He must go check Langa, Hanover Park, Khayelitsha before he says the DA is doing good in Cape Town because there are two DA's."},{"start":9568,"end":9575,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There are two DA's there. There is a DA that doesn't service areas where there is"},{"start":9575,"end":9577,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"15 seconds."},{"start":9577,"end":9587,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and there are DA that is also servicing only the capitalists that are there. Thank you."},{"start":9587,"end":9597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. MMC Mnisi."},{"start":9597,"end":9603,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Cheerins is now joining."},{"start":9603,"end":9605,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Mnisi."},{"start":9605,"end":9615,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let me respond directly to issues raised by the fellow Councillor. Firstly, Madam Speaker, I agree with"},{"start":9615,"end":9622,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Cheerins is now exiting."},{"start":9622,"end":9625,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You can continue, Councillor. Can we do that?"},{"start":9625,"end":9656,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Firstly, Madam Speaker, I agree with one fundamental point which was raised by Councillor Nkomo that economic growth cannot happen without functioning infrastructure. Businesses need reliable electricity, water, roads, transport and predictable municipal processes. But Madam Speaker, that is not an argument against this economic growth strategy."},{"start":9656,"end":9688,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"In fact, the strategy itself recognizes these constraints. It identifies infrastructure backlogs, unreliable services, transport challenges and weak project preparation as some of the barriers to our economic growth. So the diagnosis, Madam Speaker, is there. The question is what do we do about it? And I think we must be careful not to create a false choice between fixing infrastructure and growing the economy."},{"start":9688,"end":9719,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Johannesburg, Madam Speaker, has to do both. The city's 2026-2027 budget is around R97.1 billion with significant resources directed towards infrastructure and service delivery. City Power has around R6.7 billion capital program aimed at strengthening the electricity network, while the city is also investing in roads, storm water,"},{"start":9719,"end":9745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"water and sanitation, public transport and urban renewal. So it is not correct to suggest that Johannesburg is simply producing strategies without putting resources behind implementation. Madam Speaker, the Honourable Member, Councillor Nkomo, also referred to Cape Town. We should learn from other cities, we accept that,"},{"start":9745,"end":9776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but Johannesburg and Cape Town are two different cities with different infrastructure footprints, different spatial challenges, different revenue pressures and different economic structures. We cannot simply take one city's infrastructure allocation and use it as the standard by which Johannesburg's entire economic development strategy must be judged, Madam Speaker. The real question is what does Johannesburg"},{"start":9776,"end":9806,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"need to do to unlock growth at scale and complexity of Johannesburg? And that is where this strategy becomes important, Madam Speaker. This is not an infrastructure strategy. It is an economic growth strategy. Its purpose is to identify where our economy must grow, where investment must be attracted, how SMMEs"},{"start":9806,"end":9836,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"can participate in value chains, how township economies can be strengthened, how the inner city can be revitalized and how Johannesburg can remain competitive as an African economic center. Now, Madam Speaker, I particularly want to respond to the statement that businesses do not invest because a municipality has produced a strategy. I want to agree with that. Businesses invest when they see opportunity,"},{"start":9836,"end":9851,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"certainty, functioning infrastructure, markets and a government that can implement. But how do we decide where we want to attract investment? How do we identify the sectors we want to grow?"},{"start":9851,"end":9853,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"30 seconds, MMC."},{"start":9853,"end":9855,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayibo,"},{"start":9855,"end":9882,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker. How do we connect SMMEs to those sectors? How do we prioritize economic corridors and catalytic projects? How do we measure whether Johannesburg is becoming more productive and inclusive? That is exactly why we need a strategy, Madam Speaker. A strategy is not the delivery itself, it is the framework that guides delivery. We request Council, Madam Speaker, to approve this economic growth strategy."},{"start":9882,"end":9883,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayibo!"},{"start":9883,"end":9891,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hayibo, you had 20 seconds left. Thank you so much."},{"start":9891,"end":9908,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Colleagues, the recommendations is on page 32.3 and we will do our exercise to ensure that we have the yeses, the noes and the abstains do the work. ACDP."},{"start":9908,"end":9910,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":9910,"end":9914,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":9914,"end":9917,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No."},{"start":9917,"end":9921,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC."},{"start":9921,"end":9924,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you."},{"start":9924,"end":9926,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":9926,"end":9929,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9929,"end":9931,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":9931,"end":9933,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9933,"end":9935,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":9935,"end":9938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9938,"end":9944,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":9944,"end":9956,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM. Okay, we'll come back. Al Jama-ah."},{"start":9956,"end":9962,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah. COPE."},{"start":9962,"end":9965,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you Madam Speaker."},{"start":9965,"end":9969,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":9969,"end":9971,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":9971,"end":9974,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":9974,"end":9977,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":9977,"end":9979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":9979,"end":9982,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9982,"end":9984,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":9984,"end":9986,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Ma'am."},{"start":9986,"end":9990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":9990,"end":9993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9993,"end":9996,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":9996,"end":9998,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA abstain, Madam Speaker."},{"start":9998,"end":9999,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":9999,"end":10002,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ba kwatela i-billboard."},{"start":10002,"end":10006,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayibo, guys!"},{"start":10006,"end":10007,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":10007,"end":10011,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":10011,"end":10012,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":10012,"end":10013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"U-mute-ile."},{"start":10013,"end":10015,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":10015,"end":10021,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, can I go back and hear whether the ATM is here?"},{"start":10021,"end":10024,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, I'm here, Madam Speaker. It's a yes."},{"start":10024,"end":10034,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah, are you here?"},{"start":10034,"end":10043,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm praying, Thapelo."},{"start":10043,"end":10054,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Gwamanda, Councillor Gwamanda. Councillor Karolia."},{"start":10054,"end":10057,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, my apologies, I did not quite get what you were saying."},{"start":10057,"end":10062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you saying yes or no to the item?"},{"start":10062,"end":10067,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I thought the MMC was speaking on behalf of Al Jama-ah."},{"start":10067,"end":10071,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I could not hear him, that's why I went to you."},{"start":10071,"end":10075,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, thank you Madam Speaker."},{"start":10075,"end":10078,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So what are you saying, yes or no?"},{"start":10078,"end":10081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are saying yes to the item, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":10081,"end":10104,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, thank you Al Jama-ah. Okay, I think this is also straightforward. The noes is Freedom Front Plus and DA, and ActionSA is abstaining. So it's carried. Danko."},{"start":10104,"end":10107,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA, as always."},{"start":10107,"end":10128,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can we, can we not do that? You know when it's in the chamber, it sounds okay. When it's there online, it doesn't sound lekker. Okay. I see a hand of the Chair of Chairs. Chair of Chairs, we voted, but you can come in."},{"start":10128,"end":10141,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thanks, Madam Speaker. I would want to ask your indulgence. I want to ask that we elevate item 33, 9 and item 20, the Legislature items."},{"start":10141,"end":10144,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 33,"},{"start":10144,"end":10145,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"9 and 20."},{"start":10145,"end":10158,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"9 and 20. Okay, granted. STC, can we do that?"},{"start":10158,"end":10169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, we are now on item, elevated item 9, which is the Review of the City of Johannesburg Petitions Policy."},{"start":10169,"end":10193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let me rearrange myself. Item 9. Okay. Review of the City of Johannesburg Petitions Policy. Councillor Mabuke. Chair Mabuke."},{"start":10193,"end":10224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor and his cabinet, Deputy Executive Mayor, Chief Whip of Council, Chair of Chairs, other chairs of Section 79 committees, fellow councillors, officials of the city and residents of Johannesburg."},{"start":10224,"end":10260,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I hereby table item 9, the Review of the City of Johannesburg Petition Policy. The item contains a report on the review process of the City of Johannesburg Petition Policy. The committee has held participatory meetings in various regions of the metro to invite public opinion on the draft. This was a regulatory requirement after the addition of the e-petition more than two years ago. Madam Speaker, the item seeks"},{"start":10260,"end":10265,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"council approval in today's session. Thank you."},{"start":10265,"end":10279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mabuke. Chair Mabuke, can I have the DA, Councillor L. Mphefo."},{"start":10279,"end":10281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor L. Mphefo."},{"start":10281,"end":10287,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker. Apologies, I was still unmuting myself. Am I audible?"},{"start":10287,"end":10289,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, you are audible now."},{"start":10289,"end":10320,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Speaker. Good morning to you, Speaker, and good morning to, oh, it's afternoon already. Good afternoon, Speaker, and good afternoon to my fellow colleagues. The DA is not in support of this item for various reasons. Speaker, I would like to bring it to the attention of this council that this policy was not presented in the Petitions Committee and does not"},{"start":10320,"end":10350,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"include the work of the councillors. The big question here, Speaker, is who drafted this policy and who were they drafting it for? Speaker, if you look at this policy, in the earlier pages there, where it speaks about the submission, it still lists Metro Centre, and we do not"},{"start":10350,"end":10381,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"have Metro Centre anymore, Speaker. This policy, it is not clear as to whether the e-petitions portal replaces the earlier methods of submission or whether it is part and parcel of. And also, Speaker, the previous methods are still contained in this policy where it states that one can submit at any of the COEs, it can"},{"start":10381,"end":10411,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"submit at any of the regional offices in a box. I know for a fact that my region, Region A, does not contain such a box. And I think the biggest discrepancy is of the Metro Centre. What is more concerning about this policy, Speaker, is that when you look at point 6, and this was a submission that was made by the councillors when we met in 2024 before this document went for public participation to"},{"start":10411,"end":10441,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the various regions to be presented to the residents of the regions. Point 6, it speaks on the powers and functions of the committee. And this policy does not promote and protect service delivery and rights of the residents, Speaker. It does not empower the councillors in the committee in doing oversight over the work done by officials in relevant departments, as well as Petitions Unit, the"},{"start":10441,"end":10471,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"administrators. It is very clear on how to proceed in dealings or holding MMC accountable by referring to Ethics within or after the 30-day period of no response, but it is very silent in what must happen when those responsible for the actual work are not performing. Question: How many times have we requested reports from officials in some departments,"},{"start":10471,"end":10501,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, and to date we have not received those reports? My colleagues in this committee will agree with me that we've asked for some reports from the officials, which for some it would take three months, it takes more than six months, and some of them forever. We're ending the term and some reports are still not received, and it does not give any direction, indication,"},{"start":10501,"end":10531,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"any powers of how to hold those officials accountable. And this is what has been contributing mostly to the delay or the backlog of the petitions. But yet, it is quick to punish the MMC, who is a councillor, someone that is also responsible for doing oversight. So it removes the responsibility"},{"start":10531,"end":10561,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"from the Petitions Unit and also the officials in the various departments, but yet it puts it on the MMC. So the MMC must do the work of the officials and also do the oversight over it as well. There is no separation of power and this does not assist us with that. And also, Speaker, there's a point of sitting of the committee that is removed"},{"start":10561,"end":10591,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"altogether from this policy, which was not in agreement with the committee. But in any case, Speaker, this was not read in the Petitions Unit. I know the Chairperson might jump to the conclusion that in the previous extraordinary, in the last extraordinary meeting of the Petitions Committee meeting, Section 79 Petitions Committee meeting,"},{"start":10591,"end":10621,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I was not present, Chairperson, because I was on sick leave in August. But I have spoken to the unit's coordinator, I've spoken to the unit's legal, I have spoken to my colleagues who were also present in the meeting. And this is not to get anyone that I've mentioned in trouble, I was just checking the facts before I bring this to council and I advise that"},{"start":10621,"end":10651,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we reject this policy. On the day of that meeting, Chairperson, of my absence, they only went through the end of term with the researcher, something that was supposed to happen in the last meeting where I was present, but the researcher was absent and it could not be presented by the researcher. So it was read by the researcher, the other document was just sneaked in and it was just noted without"},{"start":10651,"end":10681,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"inviting the comments from the councillors. Speaker, I've noted a lot of discrepancies with this policy, but I will not waste anyone's time. I would just like to repeat again, reiterate that we reject this as the DA for those reasons that I've stated. And also, it's not a panic, those that are coming in, in any case, because I know the majority may go with it. Those that are coming in the next term,"},{"start":10681,"end":10711,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"point 16, the review, 16.2, the Speaker of the Council in consultation with the Petitions Standing Committee can initiate the review process. And I would suggest that that happens in the beginning of the term, when the councillors come back into term. This policy states that it should be reviewed in the 2030s."},{"start":10711,"end":10712,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"30 seconds, Councillor."},{"start":10712,"end":10731,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It should not be the case, and it also says on the policy that it was in council in August, which now goes to the question of why is it back in council if it was in council now in August? I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":10731,"end":10740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkhonza from the ACDP."},{"start":10740,"end":10743,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Shalom, shalom, Madam Speaker."},{"start":10743,"end":10744,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Danko."},{"start":10744,"end":10745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, can you hear me?"},{"start":10745,"end":10748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can hear you, Councillor Mkhonza. I can hear you."},{"start":10748,"end":10769,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh yeah, thank you very much. Thank you very much. Greetings once again. Shalom, shalom, Madam Speaker. So the ACDP caucus, Madam Speaker, believes that this policy is a living document. As a result, the ACDP will approve this policy. Thank you very much."},{"start":10769,"end":10782,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mkhonza. Councillor Radebe from the EFF."},{"start":10782,"end":10800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Radebe. I think I've seen her entering the platform. Okay, let's move. Councillor Shange from the ANC."},{"start":10800,"end":10830,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngibonge eh Mphathi wohlelo, Madam Speaker. Ngibingelele ku-Councillor number one we-City of Johannesburg, which is the Executive Mayor, ubabu Dada Morero, ngibingelele kwikomidi lakhe, ngibingelele ku-Swepe, ngibingelele kuwowonke ama-colleagues, ngibingelele amakhansela kaKhongolose, izingane zikamdala uTambo. Ngibingelele ku-Chairperson we-petition, and thank eh Chairperson,"},{"start":10830,"end":10860,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for the background that you have given to the Council. Chair, I want to say, Speaker, from the African National Congress, we note the report and we are saying, indeed, it is a living document that will always continue. And we are saying, Madam Speaker, if I'm not in the meeting, it does not mean that the committee cannot continue with certain works. We always continue and make sure that we move forward. There are a number of things that are raised by Councillor Mphefo, which we do not agree"},{"start":10860,"end":10890,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with, and the presentation of these policies were done, and it is us as Councillors of this committee who went out to the community and present. Why did we go outside to present the policy that we could not conclude to certain things? But there were a number of issues that were outstanding from our side to conclude the road show, but because of the unavailability of some Councillors amongst ourselves, and we could not continue with that. But the African National Congress, Speaker, says to the Council, can we approve"},{"start":10890,"end":10915,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"this report and make sure that we move forward so that we are able to make sure that residents of the City of Johannesburg does receive the e-petition because it is a model that is going to assist our residents not to make up and downs when they do these petitions, going to the offices, doing this, this, this. Therefore, the African National Congress notes the report and approves. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":10915,"end":10922,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, uh Member in charge, Chair Mabuke."},{"start":10922,"end":10948,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, someone eh by the name of Bishop Maumela he said recently, lies has short legs. I therefore, Madam Speaker, request Council to approve this report."},{"start":10948,"end":10967,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, um Chair. Recommendations as on page 9.4, and we are going to do our little exercise to be able to see how we vote on it. ACDP."},{"start":10967,"end":10969,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":10969,"end":10973,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":10973,"end":10975,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain."},{"start":10975,"end":10978,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC."},{"start":10978,"end":10981,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you."},{"start":10981,"end":10984,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. GOOD."},{"start":10984,"end":10986,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":10986,"end":10988,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":10988,"end":10990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":10990,"end":10998,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":10998,"end":11004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":11004,"end":11006,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":11006,"end":11008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11008,"end":11008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, ATM."},{"start":11008,"end":11010,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, ATM."},{"start":11010,"end":11018,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Got you, ATM. Al Jama-ah."},{"start":11018,"end":11028,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Amad, where are you? Councillor Gwamanda."},{"start":11028,"end":11031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, we approve the item, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11031,"end":11034,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":11034,"end":11036,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you."},{"start":11036,"end":11044,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PAC Oh, PAC is not here. AHC."},{"start":11044,"end":11046,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11046,"end":11050,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. AIC."},{"start":11050,"end":11053,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC approved the report, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11053,"end":11056,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":11056,"end":11059,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11059,"end":11062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":11062,"end":11064,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11064,"end":11068,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":11068,"end":11071,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve the report."},{"start":11071,"end":11073,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":11073,"end":11076,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11076,"end":11079,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":11079,"end":11081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, thank you, Speaker."},{"start":11081,"end":11085,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":11085,"end":11089,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh it's a yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11089,"end":11097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus abstains. Um UIM UDM."},{"start":11097,"end":11101,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh UIM uh abstain, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11101,"end":11110,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Uh UDM and Freedom Front Plus abstains. Eh there's a no from Action and"},{"start":11110,"end":11116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker. Speaker. I did not abstain, I said yes."},{"start":11116,"end":11118,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry, sorry, uh Councillor."},{"start":11118,"end":11124,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11124,"end":11146,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM agrees and says yes. UIM abstains. ActionSA said no, and DA said no. So it is carried. Thank you. Can we go to the next item?"},{"start":11146,"end":11153,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed with item 20, which is the implementation of the revised Alderman Policy, the second phase."},{"start":11153,"end":11165,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, item 20. I'm just getting my bearings right. Okay, item 20."},{"start":11165,"end":11168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Uh laat ons waai."},{"start":11168,"end":11172,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Avant-Smith."},{"start":11172,"end":11174,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11174,"end":11175,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, sir."},{"start":11175,"end":11205,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. That's We're getting there slowly. Um we as the DA, we do approve um this uh Aldermanship policy and especially the the bestowing of honorary Alderman titles on past uh members of this Council. I would just like to request that that those lists are continuously reviewed"},{"start":11205,"end":11224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"as on the original lists when we approved the Aldermans, um we there were a couple of Councillors that uh should have been made um honorary Aldermans. Um so if we could just review that, but the Democratic Alliance approves this. Thank you."},{"start":11224,"end":11235,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. EFF Councillor G. Mokwena."},{"start":11235,"end":11240,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to all Councillors."},{"start":11240,"end":11241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, can you just hold"},{"start":11241,"end":11242,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh Speaker."},{"start":11242,"end":11259,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Just hold on for me, Councillor uh Mokwena. There's someone that is making a noise. Thank you, Councillor Mokwena. I stopped the the the thingy for you. You can start."},{"start":11259,"end":11290,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to all Councillors. Speaker, the EFF notes this second phase of implementing the revised Alderman Policy. Recognition of long service in local government can have institutional value, but such recognition must never become an exercise in political prestige or entitlement. It must be based on verified service, consistent criteria, and an accurate"},{"start":11290,"end":11320,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"public record. This report itself demonstrates why verification matters. Councillor Nonhlanhla Helen Makhuba was inadvertently omitted from the first phase and has now been verified as meeting the requirements. 18 former Councillors have uh also been assessed as meeting the prescribed threshold. At the same time, Councillor Vincent Lawrence Eh"},{"start":11320,"end":11350,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"who was previously approved, is now recommended for the removal after further verification found that he does not meet the eligible requirement. That correction is important. It shows that Council must never simply rubber-stamp eh honours. The same rule must apply to everybody, irrespective of political history, party affiliation, or status. This is consistent"},{"start":11350,"end":11380,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with the EFF's approval to local government, which emphasizes that public office is a responsibility rather than an entitlement, and that Councillors must serve communities with discipline, honesty, and integrity. The EFF therefore supports the recommendation contained in this report on the basis of the verified records represented to Council. But Speaker, let us remember the greatest honour"},{"start":11380,"end":11410,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for any public representative, it's not a title after years in office. It is leaving behind communities that are better because you served them. Eh lastly, Speaker, the EFF invites all the residents of the City of Johannesburg to the Manifesto Siyancoba Rally on the 31st October 2024. Pula to Dr Tlaleng, pula! Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":11410,"end":11427,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mokwena. ANC Councillor L. Nkubungu. I got it right. Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":11427,"end":11441,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh [inaudible] greet yourself, greet eh the Secretary to Council who was very key in implementation of this policy. [inaudible]"},{"start":11441,"end":11448,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can whoever that is mute? Can we not do that?"},{"start":11448,"end":11449,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hawu bo!"},{"start":11449,"end":11452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor, you may carry on."},{"start":11452,"end":11482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. You know that is telling me on the very first day that you got my surname correctly. Eh let me appreciate eh that, eh Speaker. Greetings to the Executive Mayor, the Executive Deputy Mayor, the Mayoral Committee, the City Manager. I would like, eh Speaker, to just say, as the ANC, we are very impressed with the progress on this policy, and we note the amendments on this phase two. And we also acknowledge the"},{"start":11482,"end":11512,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"fact that you were able to eh pick up the issue of the omitted eh Councillor from the IFP. We really much appreciate that. It shows that this policy now will be carried out with the most highest integrity. We're saying, going forward, Speaker, we are hoping that in the next term, the Legislature will be able to have funds for the Rules Committee to make sure that they are able to do their work and make"},{"start":11512,"end":11542,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"sure that eh benchmarking is done so that we don't have [inaudible]. But I appreciate the great work which has been made here. The ANC appreciates the progress on the eh Alderman Policy, and we appreciate and acknowledge all those eh amendments that have been made on this policy. And Speaker, it is important to also indicate that eh we also note the former Councillors"},{"start":11542,"end":11567,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that have been eh selected, and we don't see any challenges in those because they are eh they are very much verifiable eh to every political party that has seen them. And we appreciate everything, Speaker, and we say, as the African National Congress, we are noting and approving the changes on this eh amended Alderman Policy. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":11567,"end":11573,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. Chair of Chairs, V. Marema."},{"start":11573,"end":11595,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, eh Honourable Speaker, Honourable Councillors, Executive Mayor, Deputy Executive Mayor and the collective, uh the Chairpersons of Portfolio Committees, all Alderman Councillors who are present here and the ones that are incoming. I ask Council to approve the report. Thank you."},{"start":11595,"end":11611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, um Chair of Chairs. The recommendations are on pages 20.4 to 20.5. Let's do our exercise quickly, efficiently. Um ACDP."},{"start":11611,"end":11613,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":11613,"end":11617,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":11617,"end":11619,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":11619,"end":11625,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC."},{"start":11625,"end":11627,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":11627,"end":11629,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":11629,"end":11635,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":11635,"end":11636,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":11636,"end":11639,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM, is that a yes?"},{"start":11639,"end":11641,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":11641,"end":11643,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":11643,"end":11645,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11645,"end":11651,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":11651,"end":11658,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM. Is there no more money in the ATM?"},{"start":11658,"end":11661,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh ATM, yes."},{"start":11661,"end":11668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":11668,"end":11671,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah. Councillor Gwamanda."},{"start":11671,"end":11675,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah, yes, eh Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11675,"end":11677,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":11677,"end":11680,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you, Speaker."},{"start":11680,"end":11685,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":11685,"end":11687,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":11687,"end":11690,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":11690,"end":11692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":11692,"end":11695,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":11695,"end":11697,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":11697,"end":11699,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":11699,"end":11701,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11701,"end":11709,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":11709,"end":11715,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":11715,"end":11718,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":11718,"end":11721,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11721,"end":11723,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":11723,"end":11725,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11725,"end":11728,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":11728,"end":11730,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":11730,"end":11734,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC."},{"start":11734,"end":11737,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"[inaudible] Madam Speaker."},{"start":11737,"end":11740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":11740,"end":11742,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":11742,"end":11752,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, it's carried. We don't even have to count anything. Thank you, colleagues, the item is carried. Let's go to the next item."},{"start":11752,"end":11777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We proceed with item 33, and that is the tabling of the reports on publishing of the declaration of interests and gift registry of Councillors for the financial years 2023/24 and 2024/25 status quo, and declaration of financial interests and gift registry of Councillors for financial year 2025/26."},{"start":11777,"end":11803,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, colleagues, um I call on Chairperson Mnyameni. I hope I've said it right. Chair, are you in the house?"},{"start":11803,"end":11813,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Mongameli Mnyameni."},{"start":11813,"end":11815,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is that Councillor? Is that?"},{"start":11815,"end":11818,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, am I audible?"},{"start":11818,"end":11826,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, now you're audible."},{"start":11826,"end":11830,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you hear me now, Speaker?"},{"start":11830,"end":11833,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can hear you, Councillor."},{"start":11833,"end":11836,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello. Speaker."},{"start":11836,"end":11843,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni, I can hear you."},{"start":11843,"end":11847,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, can you hear me?"},{"start":11847,"end":11848,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni."},{"start":11848,"end":11849,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we can hear you!"},{"start":11849,"end":11853,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we can hear you. You are loud and clear."},{"start":11853,"end":11857,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good day, Speaker."},{"start":11857,"end":11862,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you for the greetings."},{"start":11862,"end":11873,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"[inaudible] uh the Honourable Speaker, Councillor [inaudible]"},{"start":11873,"end":11875,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you move around?"},{"start":11875,"end":11881,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh my humble"},{"start":11881,"end":11882,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor"},{"start":11882,"end":11889,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's [inaudible] greetings to Deputy [inaudible]"},{"start":11892,"end":11896,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Executive Mayor. My humble greetings to Chief Whip"},{"start":11896,"end":11900,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Nokuthula! Uyithathaphi i-short fana nale?"},{"start":11900,"end":11902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hhayi mani, who's that?"},{"start":11902,"end":11907,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of Council. Greetings to Chair"},{"start":11907,"end":11911,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Nokuthula Khonkhobe."},{"start":11911,"end":11922,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to all Mayoral Committee Members."},{"start":11922,"end":11929,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to all the Councillors and greetings"},{"start":11929,"end":11931,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Chair, can you move around?"},{"start":11931,"end":11957,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to Secretary and greetings [inaudible]. And also, Speaker, [inaudible] Johannesburg. Madam Speaker,"},{"start":11957,"end":11987,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh I'm here [inaudible] the publishing of the declaration of the financial years of 2023/25 on the status quo, the declaration of"},{"start":11987,"end":11990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"financial [inaudible] year 2025"},{"start":11990,"end":11995,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We can't hear what he's saying."},{"start":11995,"end":11997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Da Gama."},{"start":11997,"end":11999,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The primary objective"},{"start":11999,"end":12005,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni. Chair Mnyameni, can you please just pause?"},{"start":12005,"end":12022,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"objective of the status quo of the completion of the [inaudible] of financial interests and gift [inaudible]"},{"start":12022,"end":12022,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni."},{"start":12022,"end":12029,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"2023/2024 and 2020"},{"start":12029,"end":12031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni."},{"start":12031,"end":12032,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you hear me, Speaker?"},{"start":12032,"end":12037,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you just Can you just pause? Can you pause? Councillor Da Gama."},{"start":12037,"end":12039,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can hear you. Speaker, I can hear you."},{"start":12039,"end":12051,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, can you pause? Councillor, can you pause? I will keep your time. Councillor Da Gama, it's the third time that you're doing what you're doing. If you wanted to"},{"start":12051,"end":12053,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But we can't hear him. Shouldn't I raise it? I'm raising it, but you can hear that we can't hear him."},{"start":12053,"end":12058,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, but put up your hand! Councillor Da Gama."},{"start":12058,"end":12060,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"May I continue?"},{"start":12060,"end":12065,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, wait, hold on, Councillor Mnyameni. Councillor Da Gama, put up your hand when you want to speak in Council."},{"start":12065,"end":12068,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"May I continue, Speaker?"},{"start":12068,"end":12069,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, but address the issue of the sound."},{"start":12069,"end":12074,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Chair Mnyameni, please continue."},{"start":12074,"end":12077,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I'm listening to your direction. Can I"},{"start":12077,"end":12081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Now, you can carry on now."},{"start":12081,"end":12083,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"May I continue?"},{"start":12083,"end":12085,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, please."},{"start":12085,"end":12114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, [inaudible] Council of the status quo of the completion of the process and gift register of Councillors."},{"start":12114,"end":12116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor De Lange."},{"start":12116,"end":12120,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for the publishing thereof."},{"start":12120,"end":12125,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni, can you just hold on, please? Councillor De Lange."},{"start":12125,"end":12129,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report of Commissioner uh"},{"start":12129,"end":12138,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, um I think what Councillor Da Gama was trying to raise, we cannot hear the Chairperson. We cannot hear him. And"},{"start":12138,"end":12156,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I hear you, Councillor. I hear you, at least you've raised your hand. And that I appreciate. So let us just find a way of contacting the Councillor so that he can move or get into a space where we can hear him."},{"start":12156,"end":12162,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, I'm trying to move around. Can you hear me?"},{"start":12162,"end":12167,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni, please move around."},{"start":12167,"end":12169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm moving around, Speaker."},{"start":12169,"end":12171,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, carry on, don't stop."},{"start":12171,"end":12173,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, am I audible now?"},{"start":12173,"end":12178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are, so carry on."},{"start":12178,"end":12208,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, no, thanks very much, Speaker. The report seeks also seeks to uh seek approval of that Office of the Integrity Commissioner opens a window for financial year declaration and a gift register 2025 and 2026 financial year from the 5th of October to the 10th of October, then and such declaration to be conducted electronically"},{"start":12208,"end":12239,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and manually. I therefore urge all the Councillors to declare their financial interests for 2025 and 2026 financial year. The IC, Integrity Commissioner, will be permitting walk-ins for Councillors who wish to declare manually. Then the date is the 5th"},{"start":12239,"end":12250,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to the 10th of October. The venue is uh is Braampark, Forum 1, at the Speaker's Boardroom on"},{"start":12297,"end":12327,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mnyameni. We are fine. I was just repeating as to what the heading says, the tabling report publishing of the declaration of financial interest and gift registry of Councillors for the financial year of 2023 to 2024 and 2024 to 2025. Also, the status quo, the declaration of financial interest"},{"start":12327,"end":12357,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and gift registry of Councillors for the financial year 2025/2026, which will be open from the 5th of October to the 10th of October. There will be uh manual as well as um electronic registration, and the Councillor has also said that those that want to do walk-ins can walk into the Speaker's Office,"},{"start":12357,"end":12384,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh where the IC will be sitting to do these declarations. I don't see that we have any speakers. So um can we then, and you will guide me, uh Legal will guide. Hhayi guys, I'm listening to all these"},{"start":12384,"end":12388,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speakers, eh Speaker. [inaudible] items, Speaker, no one."},{"start":12388,"end":12393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, there will be no speakers, and we just ask that um"},{"start":12393,"end":12397,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We humble the Council to approve the report, Speaker."},{"start":12397,"end":12416,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, that's what I wanted to say, and uh that the recommendations on page 33.3, is the item agreed to? So we'll do our exercise again. Can we do our exercise? Can I start? ACDP."},{"start":12416,"end":12422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No sound."},{"start":12422,"end":12434,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I go to Freedom Front Plus? Are people eating? Are they in the kitchens?"},{"start":12434,"end":12435,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We cannot hear the Speaker."},{"start":12435,"end":12440,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I go to the APC?"},{"start":12440,"end":12445,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, you must start again, please, we can't hear you."},{"start":12445,"end":12452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"African Christian Democratic Party, I called you. Can we hear your view?"},{"start":12452,"end":12455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Yes, thank you."},{"start":12455,"end":12459,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are saying yes. Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":12459,"end":12461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":12461,"end":12469,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah. APC. Okay. GOOD."},{"start":12469,"end":12470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":12470,"end":12473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":12473,"end":12475,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":12475,"end":12477,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":12477,"end":12479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":12479,"end":12485,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":12485,"end":12502,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah. Al Jama-ah. COPE. AHC."},{"start":12502,"end":12505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":12505,"end":12508,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":12508,"end":12510,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":12510,"end":12513,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":12513,"end":12515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":12515,"end":12515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":12518,"end":12521,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":12521,"end":12527,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":12528,"end":12539,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that? Colleagues! Ndlela! Councillor, Chair Ndlela!"},{"start":12539,"end":12541,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh it's a yes, Speaker."},{"start":12541,"end":12557,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hhayi, but you are talking, I didn't even call ANC, I'm asking you to keep quiet. Mute! EFF. ActionSA."},{"start":12557,"end":12559,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Speaker."},{"start":12559,"end":12563,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":12563,"end":12564,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Speaker."},{"start":12564,"end":12568,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC, now you can respond."},{"start":12568,"end":12570,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":12570,"end":12581,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, can I go back to APC?"},{"start":12581,"end":12584,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":12584,"end":12586,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Speaker."},{"start":12586,"end":12588,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":12588,"end":12592,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, thank you."},{"start":12592,"end":12600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, I think we ATM, they have said yes. ATM. No, they didn't respond."},{"start":12601,"end":12604,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM and EFF."},{"start":12604,"end":12611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, PAC is, oh, ATM wrote on the chat, Speaker. They said yes, because they are experiencing trouble with network."},{"start":12611,"end":12617,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, thank you so much. EFF."},{"start":12617,"end":12623,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mogapi or Councillor Khonkhobe?"},{"start":12623,"end":12630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Without the EFF, we still have everybody agreeing to it. Thank you so much."},{"start":12630,"end":12634,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's carried."},{"start":12634,"end":12637,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who said um?"},{"start":12637,"end":12641,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings, Madam Speaker. I'm sorry, I'm having a challenge with my network. We agreed, Madam Speaker."},{"start":12641,"end":12648,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, ma'am. Thank you so much, Councillor Khonkhobe. Right, STC."},{"start":12648,"end":12662,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, we are now back on item one, and that is the request for approval by council of the C40 and UN-Habitat Urban Planning Accelerator and the C40 Thriving Food Systems Accelerator."},{"start":12662,"end":12665,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid Boer."},{"start":12665,"end":12668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Goeiedag, Mevrou die Speaker."},{"start":12668,"end":12696,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm speaking on item number one, the request for approval by council of the C40 and UN-Habitat Urban Planning Accelerator. Madam Speaker, Johannesburg is not an island on its own. We are part of a global community. And as much as we hear about a fantastic city in our country called Cape Town,"},{"start":12696,"end":12722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"there are also other cities all over the world which are fantastic cities. And it is great for Johannesburg to be part of this C40 to know and to see what is happening in other cities all over the world, cities with different histories, some of those cities being over a thousand years old, facing various challenges."},{"start":12722,"end":12745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And Johannesburg got its unique challenges that we need to address as well. With the interaction with other cities and to take advice and to take examples from them is good to have. We do not need to reinvent the wheel if it is already invented. So,"},{"start":12745,"end":12775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the Freedom Front is supporting those partnerships and agreements with other cities all over the world, especially on the Thriving Food Systems Accelerator. We need to maintain food security, especially for our vulnerable population, being our children, and it is of absolute utmost importance. And the city can also"},{"start":12775,"end":12798,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"think proactive in that and maybe take lessons from other cities, but also come forward with utilizing our open spaces for maybe small-scale farming projects, which will create jobs, and they can be financial sustainable as well, and produce food for our residents."},{"start":12798,"end":12799,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They must be on a financial sustainable basis."},{"start":12799,"end":12802,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Vyftig sekondes."},{"start":12802,"end":12827,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And then we also need to think of bringing our fresh produce markets closer to our high-density areas. The current fresh produce market is far away from our residents, and we can also bring that into our communities. So the Freedom Front notes this report and we approve the partnership with other cities. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":12827,"end":12829,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie."},{"start":12829,"end":12834,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkasi from the EFF."},{"start":12834,"end":12862,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to fellow councillors, greetings to the EFF ground forces present here today. The EFF approached this report from one fundamental question: What will this commitment do for the people who are suffering today? Because we have become very good on producing plans, frameworks, strategies, accelerators, and international commitments, but our people do not eat"},{"start":12862,"end":12893,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"those strategies. Our people do not live inside policy documents. Our people need water, they need houses, they need electricity, they need roads, they need sanitation, they need affordable food, they need public transport, they need the land, which is the fundamental question for our struggle as black people, and they need dignity. This report correctly recognized that the climate crisis, inadequate housing, informal settlement expansion, and food insecurity are affecting marginalized communities."},{"start":12893,"end":12922,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We therefore recognize the importance of urban planning that protects communities from floods, heat waves, and other climate risks. We recognize the importance of food security. We recognize the importance of affordable houses, but EFF will not support feel-good words without measurable implementation. The report tells us that within six years, 80% of new developments should be located close to public transport. It tells us that at least 20% of new developments should be provided"},{"start":12922,"end":12945,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"adequate and affordable housing. It tells us that green and permeable surfaces must be incorporated into new developments. Those are important commitments. But we must ask: Where are the targets for our informal settlements? Where are the targets for Zandspruit? Where are the targets for communities that have waited for decades for proper infrastructure? Where is the implementation program that says exactly which communities will benefit,"},{"start":12945,"end":12949,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, we can't hear the speaker. His sound's gone."},{"start":12949,"end":12953,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"when they will benefit,"},{"start":12953,"end":12958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We can hear the councillor. Continue, councillor."},{"start":12958,"end":12984,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, okay. Dankie, Speaker. You cannot speak about climate resilience while people live in settlements where heavy rainfall can destroy homes. You cannot speak about sustainable urban development while poor communities are pushed further and further away from employment opportunities. You cannot speak about inclusive planning while working-class people remain trapped on the margins of the city."},{"start":12984,"end":13013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The EFF therefore says urban transformation must mean transformation for the working class. The report also speaks about affordable houses. We welcome that, but we must ask: Affordable for whom? How many houses? Where will they be built? Who will qualify? What is the implementation timetable, and what land will be made available? The EFF position is clear: Public resources must serve the public interest. Municipal land"},{"start":13013,"end":13025,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"must be used strategically to address housing, community facilities, economic development, and food security. We cannot have a city where well-located land is protected for wealth while poor people are pushed further and further away from economic opportunities."},{"start":13025,"end":13030,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"50 seconds."},{"start":13030,"end":13058,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, the report speaks about food business, green jobs, food production, and security. Our question is: How many jobs? How many local producers? How many cooperatives, and how many community food gardens? How many households will benefit out of this program? Speaker, we must therefore ask: What will this program actually cost? What is the financial model? Which programs are already funded? Which department will carry the cost?"},{"start":13058,"end":13059,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"20 seconds."},{"start":13059,"end":13077,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What external funding will be accessed? What will council receive annually in terms of this program? And this program will be measured by whether young people can participate meaningfully in the economy. That is the standard against which we must evaluate"},{"start":13077,"end":13081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your time is up, Councillor Mkasi. Your time is up."},{"start":13081,"end":13083,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We therefore note the report and approve."},{"start":13083,"end":13093,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Thanks, councillor. Councillor Madiba, ANC."},{"start":13093,"end":13121,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to you, Madam Speaker, greetings to the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Executive Mayor, all MMCs, all Chairs, Chairs of Chairs, the Chief Whip, all councillors, and greetings to the residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, the Urban Planning Accelerator commits the city to better and more sustainable urban development."},{"start":13121,"end":13148,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Among the developments are increasing mixed-use development, ensuring new development is better connected to public transport, protecting green spaces, regulating development in high-risk areas, and promoting adequate and affordable housing. These are not theoretical issues."},{"start":13148,"end":13179,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"When we talk about climate resilience, we are talking about families affected by floods and heat waves. When we talk about spatial planning, we are talking about residents who spend hours traveling between their homes and place of work. When we talk about affordable housing, we are talking about families who need access to well-located communities and economic opportunities. This is why proper planning matters."},{"start":13179,"end":13209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, the report also makes clear that Johannesburg is not starting from zero. The city already has the Spatial Development Framework, which incorporates climate change and resilience considerations and promotes a more compact, connected city. The city also has an Inclusionary Housing Policy aimed at increasing affordable housing and promoting mixed economic communities."},{"start":13209,"end":13237,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The C40 partnership therefore gives us an opportunity to strengthen and accelerate work that is already taking place. But the second accelerator is equally important, which is food security. Food insecurity is one of the most immediate challenges experienced by vulnerable households. The city already has programs including food gardens,"},{"start":13237,"end":13260,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"vegetable distribution, agri-resource centers, agri-parks, urban learning academies, and four food empowerment zones. The city also supports agro-processors with equipment, packaging, market access, and funding linkages."},{"start":13260,"end":13290,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The accelerator seeks to build on this work by developing an integrated food system strategy, improving food feeding, modernizing market infrastructure, reducing food waste, strengthening local food businesses, and creating green jobs. Madam Speaker, this is the kind of government intervention that matters. We cannot talk about food security only when a family is already hungry."},{"start":13290,"end":13319,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We must also support local food production, community gardens, small farmers, food enterprises, and sustainable livelihoods. That is how we move from simply responding to hunger towards building resilient communities. Madam Speaker, the report also confirms that participation provides Johannesburg with opportunities for technical assistance,"},{"start":13319,"end":13347,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"better financial opportunities, improved data collection, and international recognition for climate action. And importantly, the report states that there are no direct financial implications arising from participation in these accelerators. Therefore, we must ask: Why would we reject an opportunity to strengthen the city's capacity and access international technical support?"},{"start":13347,"end":13378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The ANC caucus believes Johannesburg must use every credible opportunity available to improve the lives of residents. However, Madam Speaker, we must also be clear: Signing an accelerator is not service delivery. A signature must become a program, a program must become implemented, and implementation must produce measurable results. The report envisages implementation over a period of up to 10 years"},{"start":13378,"end":13406,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and provides for community involvement through ward councillors and councillor forums. Therefore, we expect regular reporting, clear targets, and departmental accountability. We must be able to return to our communities and say not only what government promised, but what government delivered. Madam Speaker, as the election approaches,"},{"start":13406,"end":13435,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"there will be attempts to convince residents that government is doing nothing. Our response should not be anger. Our response should be the record. Let us debate the programs, let us debate the policies, let us debate the projects, let us debate the results. We acknowledge that Johannesburg still faces serious challenges. We acknowledge that more must be done. We acknowledge that implementation must be fast"},{"start":13435,"end":13466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and accountability must remain strong. But acknowledging challenges does not mean pretending that government is doing nothing. Government is working. It is developing policies, it is implementing programs, it is building partnerships, it is strengthening food security interventions, it is planning for climate resiliency, and through item one, it is seeking to strengthen this work even further."},{"start":13466,"end":13496,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, the ANC caucus therefore supports recommendations before council to note the two accelerators, recognize their benefits, approve Johannesburg's participation, and authorize the Executive Director of EISD, Dr. Tebogo Modiba, to sign the relevant agreement. Our message is clear: We must not run Joburg through political slogans. We must run it through plans, programs,"},{"start":13496,"end":13523,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"implementation, and accountability. Let the record speak. Let the work speak. Let the communities speak. And let us continue to build a Johannesburg that is more inclusive, more resilient, better planned, and more capable of putting food on the table for our people. The ANC caucus supports item number one. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":13523,"end":13536,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Madiba. Can I have the MMC, Councillor J. Sekwaila?"},{"start":13536,"end":13570,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, good afternoon to yourself, the Executive Mayor, Deputy Executive Mayor, Chair of Chairs, Chief Whip Chauke, fellow MMCs, and councillors, more particularly and more importantly, the residents of Johannesburg. Speaker, let me just appreciate the support indicated by councillors. I think"},{"start":13570,"end":13600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"what was articulated by Councillor Boer is very clear. And the concern raised by Councillor Mkasi, I think, will indicate that indeed the point that the implementation of this project or this particular item is actually done in such a way that the residents of Johannesburg do benefit. I must indicate, Speaker, that the C40 and UN-Habitat, they have been actually very much beneficial for the city. Ourselves,"},{"start":13600,"end":13631,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"as Councillor Madiba has indicated very much in detail, we've been a beneficiary of this initiative. So we've traveled in parts of the world where, in fact, such travel costs were actually funded even by themselves, just for the reason we are saying that there's no financial implication. I think ours is just to say that we must be part of the global world. Food security is very much critical. What's happening globally, we are all witnessing the global change that is happening now, how it can affect"},{"start":13631,"end":13662,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the habitat globally. I think we just need to be part of that particular global cities initiative so that we benefit from the concept and projects that are going to be brought by these international multinational formations too. So, completely, let me just say, Speaker, that we just request the council, therefore, to note this report"},{"start":13662,"end":13691,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"as a very progressive policy report. And I think there's no way as the City of Johannesburg, as big as we are, we should be very much conscious of the fact that food security, climate adaptation should be almost a fundamental point of focus of the city. We can't build a city where we have no clue on how to feed its own residents. Thank you so much, Speaker. Let me request council to note this report. Thank you."},{"start":13691,"end":13704,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, MMC. Colleagues, the recommendations on page 1.6, and we will do our little exercise quickly. ACDP?"},{"start":13704,"end":13707,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":13707,"end":13710,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":13710,"end":13712,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":13712,"end":13718,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC? Good?"},{"start":13718,"end":13719,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13719,"end":13725,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":13725,"end":13727,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":13727,"end":13731,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":13731,"end":13733,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13733,"end":13743,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":13743,"end":13745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":13745,"end":13748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":13748,"end":13750,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, thank you."},{"start":13750,"end":13754,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":13754,"end":13756,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":13756,"end":13769,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC? AIC has disappeared from the face of the earth. IFP?"},{"start":13769,"end":13771,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":13771,"end":13774,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":13774,"end":13776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13776,"end":13779,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":13779,"end":13780,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13780,"end":13786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":13786,"end":13788,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13788,"end":13790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":13790,"end":13793,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13793,"end":13795,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":13795,"end":13797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":13797,"end":13844,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The item is carried. Colleagues, can we take a three-minute break? Three minutes, please. We're coming back at 2:00. It's 1:56. Please don't go anywhere. You can just go make a cup of tea in the kitchen and be back sharp."},{"start":13844,"end":14200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"st","text":"[inaudible] ha ntse o travela o tla kae? Why to our expense? Hey!"},{"start":14200,"end":14209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, we can't hear you. We can't hear you. I'm not sure if it is only me or..."},{"start":14209,"end":14212,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a caucus break, my leadership."},{"start":14212,"end":14218,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, thank you very much."},{"start":14218,"end":14226,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are on a three-minute break."},{"start":14226,"end":14400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"A long one, a very long three-minute break."},{"start":14555,"end":14559,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Purpose of stakeholder engagements."},{"start":14559,"end":14571,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, STC. Um, the first speaker on the list is Councillor U. Lotz."},{"start":14571,"end":14602,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Speaker of Council, Executive Mayor, members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors, thank you for the opportunity to rise on item two, the Draft Clean Air Policy. Johannesburg is entering in a new deeply concerning phase of urban development. The city has already begun mining activities described as reclamation inside densely populated neighborhoods and more mining is planned in the near future."},{"start":14602,"end":14631,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is not speculation, it is happening now. Communities living near mine, mine tailings dams, unrehabilitated mine dumps and new mining sites are already experiencing dust, heavy metals and declining air quality. The risks will only intensify as mining expands. Speaker, the baseline assessment in this very item confirms that dust from mine tailings is one of the major contributors to poor air quality in Johannesburg."},{"start":14631,"end":14664,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It also confirms that vulnerable communities, those already facing poverty, limited services and health burdens are the ones most exposed to dangerous pollution. These are the same communities now facing the added threat of mining in the urban jungle. Given this reality, I must express my strong opposition to the Clean Air Zone Policy in its current form. The city already has powerful legislation."},{"start":14664,"end":14693,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The city already has powerful legislation to regulate hazardous environments. The Air Quality Act, the Municipal Systems Act, and the city's own air quality pollution control bylaws give us the authority to declare air quality management zones and air pollution control zones, effectively danger zones. With enforceable restrictions, these tools exist. They are strong, they are legally sound,"},{"start":14693,"end":14723,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and they designed for exactly the kind of high risk situations we now face with urban mining. Instead of using these existing mechanisms, the city is now proposing new categorization systems: red, amber, green, green zones. On paper, this looks structured, but in practice, categorizing communities near mines and tailings as red zones will create a stigma that has dire developmental consequences."},{"start":14723,"end":14752,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"A red zone label will signal to investors, developers, insurers, and banks that an area is permanently high risk. It will also depress property values. It will slow development. It will entrench environmental injustice, and it will normalize danger instead of eliminating it. Communities near mines will become sacrifice zones, trapped in a cycle of pollution, underinvestment, and declining"},{"start":14752,"end":14762,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"quality of life. Speaker, mining will cost more lives than any air quality intervention can save if we do not regulate it properly. Air quality"},{"start":14762,"end":14765,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, your time is up."},{"start":14765,"end":14766,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":14766,"end":14770,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Apologies for not alerting you, but your time is up."},{"start":14770,"end":14771,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":14771,"end":14776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Councillor C. Boer."},{"start":14776,"end":14805,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, um yes, this is an item that we can talk about for for a long time. But um let me just summarize it. Of course, we approve the the the draft clean air zone policy for the city because it's something that we that we owe to our children to to leave a city that is better than it was before. And the city is really, especially in air pollution, it is a very dirty city."},{"start":14805,"end":14832,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And we see in the report and in the in the policy the the big causes are here: the CO2 emissions from from vehicle exhaust, uh the dust um and the burning of rubble, and then the veld fires. Those four items are are are main culprits in in the air pollution. Um the the CO2 emissions, um I think the city can really uh start looking at"},{"start":14832,"end":14862,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"electrifying our buses, our public transport system, which is also contributing quite towards the CO2 emissions. Um the dust, uh tarring of dust roads is is not not negotiable. We have to informalize, we have to formalize our informal um settlements and we have to tar our dust roads. It's stuff that that lays on the plate of the city to do. Uh the burning of rubble, um Madam Speaker, uh it's it's it's"},{"start":14862,"end":14889,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"it is our um background. People living in informal settlements and that have hardly got food to eat and that are battling to survive every single day, their last worry is about um air quality and clean air. So they will be burning their rubble because Pikitup does not remove the rubble. So they have got no other choice than to burn their rubble. Um so"},{"start":14889,"end":14908,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"um they will they will burn coal, they will burn wood because they are not electrified. So the city has got a huge task laying ahead, especially when it comes to burning of rubble, which which got really got uh poisonous and toxic gases um emission into the air."},{"start":14908,"end":14910,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"30 sekonde."},{"start":14910,"end":14938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"To uh to really jack up our services, to make sure Pikitup cleans up our informal settlements, um uh educate our residents, electrify our informal settlements. And then on veld fires, also educate our residents and do bylaw um uh enforcement on on trespassers. But the policy is great, but we need to do the implementation of that. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":14938,"end":14940,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Raadslid."},{"start":14940,"end":14947,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, Councillor Mkhonza, ACDP."},{"start":14947,"end":14952,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. If he's not around, we'll go to Councillor"},{"start":14952,"end":14982,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, I'm trying to Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry. Apologies, Madam Speaker. The mic was giving me some problems. Apologies about that. Um yeah, so the the ACDP caucus takes comfort um in that the the uh policy will be taken to external stakeholders um for further inputs. So for that, the ACDP will approve this um progressive um policy. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":14982,"end":14993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mkhonza. Um EFF, Councillor Mkasi."},{"start":14993,"end":14994,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":14994,"end":14997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC agrees."},{"start":14997,"end":15002,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who agrees?"},{"start":15002,"end":15004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker."},{"start":15004,"end":15011,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Whoever you are, please don't play around with the mic. Councillor Mkasi."},{"start":15011,"end":15036,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, thank you very much, uh Speaker. Uh greetings to fellow progressive councillors. Um the EFF battalions are here today, uh and greetings to the incoming Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, uh who joined us online, um Dr. Tlale."},{"start":15036,"end":15066,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh the EFF welcome the Draft Clean Air Zone Policy before council. However, support for the principle of clean air must never uh mean that council gives uh this report uh a blank check. We must be honest about what this report uh is telling us. The city itself acknowledges that Johannesburg experiences poor air quality and that approximately 48% of days are classified as poor air quality days."},{"start":15066,"end":15096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The baseline assessment further records frequent exceedances of PM2.5 and PM10 health-based guidelines, particularly during winter. The report identifies household fuel consumption, waste burning, unpaved roads, vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and dust as contributing sources. So the problem is real. But Speaker, the question is who carries the burden of solving it? We cannot develop a clean air policy that becomes another enforcement mechanism"},{"start":15096,"end":15126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"directed primarily at the poor communities while the structural causes of pollution remain unresolved. The report itself makes an important admission: communities experiencing high pollution are often also communities facing poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, and limited access to basic municipal services. That is where our criticism begins. If residents burn waste because waste is not collected reliably, the city cannot simply arrive with enforcement officers and punish the residents."},{"start":15126,"end":15156,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Fix the waste collection system. If households burn wood or coal because they do not have reliable and affordable energy, then the solution cannot simply be enforcement. Provide reliable electricity and affordable uh cleaner energy alternatives. If unpaved roads contribute to particulate pollution, then council must deal with the roads and dust. Build and maintain roads. If the public transport is inadequate and unreliable,"},{"start":15156,"end":15186,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we cannot place the entire responsibility for transport emissions on ordinary residents who have no practical alternative. Improve public transport and provide affordable alternatives. This is particularly important because the report itself concludes that a vehicle-only low emission zone will be insufficient for Johannesburg. The policy therefore correctly recognizes that pollution must be addressed across multi uh sectors. But Speaker, recognizing the problem is not enough."},{"start":15186,"end":15203,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We need implementation. The report says there is no direct financial implication arising from the report, yet the annexures identify interventions requiring human resources, financial resources, equipment, systems, and monitoring. That raises a legitimate question: where is the implementation budget going to come from when"},{"start":15203,"end":15205,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"30 seconds, Councillor."},{"start":15205,"end":15236,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"when the the actual intervention begins? Council must not approve uh ambitious environmental objectives today and discover tomorrow that there is no there is no money. In uh closing, uh Speaker, um as the Economic Freedom Fighters, we would like to invite the citizens, residents of the City of Johannesburg to the Tshela Thupa Rally that will be hosted in Orlando Stadium on the 31st of October."},{"start":15236,"end":15254,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There will be buses across City of Johannesburg. Each and every ward uh will have a bus. Just um communicate with uh the branch uh leadership there, then we go and listen to the president and the commander-in-chief of the Economic Freedom Fighters. With that being said, um we note the report, Speaker. Thank you very much."},{"start":15254,"end":15261,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your time is up, Councillor. Your time is up. Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":15263,"end":15271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'll come and fetch my bus because you said there's a bus for everybody. So I'll come and fetch my bus. Thank you so much."},{"start":15271,"end":15272,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, you must do that."},{"start":15272,"end":15276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC, Councillor Madiba."},{"start":15276,"end":15306,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you, Madam Speaker, and greetings again. One of the central commitments of the ANC 2026 local government manifesto is to build a safe, clean, healthy, and resilient communities. The manifesto recognizes that local government has a responsibility not only to provide services, but also to create healthy environments in which our people can live, work,"},{"start":15306,"end":15336,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and raise their families. And that brings us directly to item number two, the Draft Clean Air Zone Policy of the City of Johannesburg. The manifesto also makes a very important commitment: we must make what has already been built work better, more reliably, and more effectively in every ward and for every household."},{"start":15336,"end":15366,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That is precisely the spirit in which we must approach this policy. Clean air is not a luxury; clean air is a public health necessity. The city's assessment indicates that Johannesburg currently experiences only about 52% good air quality days, meaning that almost half of the days monitored are classified as poor from an air quality perspective,"},{"start":15366,"end":15391,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and the burden is not equally distributed. Communities such as Alexandra, Jabavu, Orange Farm, and Diepsloot experience some of the highest frequency and severity of air quality exceedances. That makes this not only an environmental issue,"},{"start":15391,"end":15421,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but an issue of environmental justice. We cannot build a better Johannesburg while accepting that some of our most vulnerable communities carry a greater burden of pollution. I am raising this consciously knowing that there is a councillor who was instructed to hold a placard claiming to be fighting for the vulnerable,"},{"start":15421,"end":15451,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"so that someone can create social media videos as if they love us. We cannot allow the most vulnerable communities carry a greater burden of being used as actors, actresses, extras in a movie called \"Making Joburg Work for Certain Areas\" like we saw in Cape Town. The proposed policy therefore takes an evidence-based approach,"},{"start":15451,"end":15481,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"identifying areas according to air quality risk, health, and equity, with red, amber, and green zones requiring different levels of interventions. Madam Speaker, we must also recognize that pollution does not come from one source. The assessment identifies transport, household energy use, waste burning, industry, wind-blown dust,"},{"start":15481,"end":15511,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and regional pollution amongst the contributing sources. That is why we need a coordinated multisectoral response. And importantly, this policy is not yet final. The city is seeking broader stakeholder engagement, including communities, business, transport operators, labor, civil society, and other stakeholders before the policy is finalized."},{"start":15511,"end":15539,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report states that further engagement is necessary. The ANC caucus welcomes that process because government must listen. Communities must be heard, business must be heard, workers must be heard, transport operators must be heard. But consultation must ultimately lead to implementation. Madam Speaker, this policy also reflects the ANC manifesto commitment to climate-smart"},{"start":15539,"end":15571,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and resilient municipalities, and to ensuring that municipalities have the capacity to implement measurable commitments. The city has already undertaken legal, technical, and baseline work and has received technical support through the Breathe Cities program. Like I said before, as we enter this election period, let us debate the record honestly. Let us debate policies,"},{"start":15571,"end":15601,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"let us debate the programs, let us debate implementation. The record before us is that Johannesburg has identified a serious environmental problem, gathered evidence, developed a policy framework, and is now taking it to broader stakeholders before finalization. That is the process we should strengthen. Madam Speaker, the ANC caucus therefore supports the recommendations that council note the Draft Clean Air Zone Policy"},{"start":15601,"end":15628,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and approve broader stakeholder engagement. We support cleaner air, healthier communities, and environmental justice. And we support the principle that every resident of Johannesburg, regardless of where they live, they deserve a safe, clean, and healthy environment. The ANC caucus supports item number two. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":15628,"end":15630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, my hand's up."},{"start":15630,"end":15638,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Um, Councillor Da Rocha."},{"start":15638,"end":15649,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Madam Speaker, the previous speaker said that I got instructed to put a placard up. The reason why I put a placard up is because the city is not paying contractors to work in the ward. The ward is in a mess and there's no water, there's no power."},{"start":15649,"end":15654,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Da Rocha, Councillor Da Rocha!"},{"start":15654,"end":15655,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Shut up."},{"start":15655,"end":15685,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Da Rocha, the councillor did not say anybody's name or any political party. Can we just stop it there? No name, no political party was named. It could even have been me. Thank you. Um, MMC T. Sekwaila."},{"start":15685,"end":15687,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Smit."},{"start":15687,"end":15700,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Uh just a point of order. Somebody while uh you were talking to Councillor Da Rocha um shouted he must shut up. Um"},{"start":15700,"end":15703,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We'll try to see who it was."},{"start":15703,"end":15703,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":15703,"end":15733,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"If we can detect it, we will try to see who it was. And I keep on asking councillors to behave whether you are sitting in your bedroom, your bathroom, or on top of the roof, you are in a council chamber. And you need to conduct yourself in that way. Thank you, Councillor. We will try to see who it was that spoke. Um, MMC Sekwaila,"},{"start":15733,"end":15737,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"your time is starting now."},{"start":15737,"end":15767,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thanks, Speaker of Council. Let me stand on already established protocol and obviously uh say that we acknowledge the, you know, contributions by councillors. I think all of them they are clear. We are all very much concerned about the air quality in Johannesburg. I think this policy is more necessary so that at least we bring uh actually, um you know, reinforce this particular policy, city policy,"},{"start":15767,"end":15797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh so that at least we can chase after those that are culprits of uh air pollution. And I must indicate that um what we have done already, I think there's a work done and happening already, it's not only here. We are looking also at the transport system of the city that whatever procurement of the transportation system, your cars in the city, must also be either compliant to the clean, let me just give an example of the, you know, Rea Vaya buses."},{"start":15797,"end":15827,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It would be very much encouraged for them to use now hybrid buses that are using both electricity and actually diesel jointly, so that at least we reduce emissions and so forth. And then what we have done uh with City Power with the launch of uh EV stations uh at the, you know, John Vorster, you know, offices, uh Reuven, uh EV meaning electric vehicles that were started. I think uh I must indicate that we are not saying that the city alone is responsible,"},{"start":15827,"end":15857,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"as someone spoke, I think it was Councillor Boer who spoke about uh public transportations and um uh that are also contributing, cars are also contributing to the pollution. Or we are saying that in our launch of these initiatives uh with City Power, at City Power, the taxi industry came to that particular launch and uh actually clearly indicated they are also developing interest of bringing electrical uh vehicles uh for public transportations also as well. The likes of Uber also came"},{"start":15857,"end":15888,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"indicating that they're also interested. They are happy that the city took that initiative to obviously begin to embark in most of those vehicles through for the purpose of actually transporting public. So those are the efforts that we are doing. Uh already work has started, it's undergoing. So let me appreciate and obviously request council to approve uh this item. Uh Councillor Mkasi speaks about Tshela Thupa program."},{"start":15888,"end":15907,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh I must just say that he must be careful. We are going to Madiba's museum already. So I'm saying that residents of Johannesburg must clearly indicate that by the 4th of November, uh ensure that the ANC runs the municipality uh with overwhelming majority so that we can get out of these particular conditions. Thanks, Speaker. Thanks."},{"start":15907,"end":15926,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, councillors, uh MMC Sekwaila. Recommendations are on page 2.9. We will now see how do we agree. ACDP? Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":15926,"end":15929,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15929,"end":15936,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC? GOOD?"},{"start":15936,"end":15938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15938,"end":15941,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":15941,"end":15942,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":15942,"end":15947,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":15947,"end":15950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15950,"end":15956,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":15956,"end":15959,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15959,"end":15969,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah? Gwamanda, Karolia or Amad?"},{"start":15969,"end":15972,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm here."},{"start":15972,"end":15974,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is it yes or no?"},{"start":15974,"end":15977,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15977,"end":15980,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. COPE?"},{"start":15980,"end":15982,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you, Speaker."},{"start":15982,"end":15987,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":15987,"end":15989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15989,"end":15992,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":15992,"end":15994,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15994,"end":15997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":15997,"end":15999,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":15999,"end":16002,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":16002,"end":16004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16004,"end":16008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":16008,"end":16009,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16009,"end":16012,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":16012,"end":16014,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we support."},{"start":16014,"end":16016,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":16016,"end":16018,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16018,"end":16021,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":16021,"end":16023,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16023,"end":16027,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP?"},{"start":16027,"end":16031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh shalom, shalom. Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16031,"end":16040,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, we can go. It is fine. We are good. The item has been carried. STC."},{"start":16040,"end":16057,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We move to item item three, and that is the tabling of the Emissions Inventory, Atmospheric Dispersion Modeling and Source Apportionment and Chemical Analysis Reports for the City of Johannesburg for purposes of informing policy, planning and targeted air quality interventions."},{"start":16057,"end":16064,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkasi."},{"start":16064,"end":16096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you very much, uh Speaker, again. Um greetings to EFF um ground forces, fellow progressive uh councillors. Um before we can um uh debate this item, we just want uh we want this council to note that our people in uh Zandspruit"},{"start":16096,"end":16106,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Extension 16 and Extension 9 and 10, they currently do not have water. Uh they don't have water, they don't have anything."},{"start":16106,"end":16114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkasi, just hold on. Councillor Mkasi, just hold on."},{"start":16114,"end":16114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hold on my time also."},{"start":16114,"end":16123,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Ntombela, stop it, please. Councillor Mkasi, you can carry on."},{"start":16123,"end":16154,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, I was still raising a concern here about the Extension um 9 and 10 and 16. So what worries me and the community at large is that um uh this community they use uh flushing uh toilets. So if they don't have water, we don't know how are they going to use uh these toilets. We want this council to look into that and make sure that the running water is restored"},{"start":16154,"end":16195,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for the people of Zandspruit because we cannot rely on water tanks that are today filled, tomorrow are not filled. It's becoming a problem, it's becoming a problem, and we cannot turn the water tanks into a permanent solution while there is uh Joburg Water pipelines that were supposed to be supplying water. With uh that being said, going back to the item, Speaker, the Economic Freedom Fighters, the most radical organization that represent the marginalized people of this country, we therefore note the report. Thank you very much."},{"start":16195,"end":16200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mkasi. Uh Councillor Madiba, from"},{"start":16200,"end":16202,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The ANC."},{"start":16210,"end":16223,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings again, Madam Speaker. Unfortunately, I can't read my speech right now. I have people that I have to assist. So therefore, as the African National Congress, we note the report and support it. Thank you."},{"start":16223,"end":16229,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. Councillors, uh, ag, MMC Sekwaila."},{"start":16233,"end":16265,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, uh, uh, can I request the Council to note this report and obviously we'll do follow up on the matter raised by Councillor Mkasi around Rosettenville's parade, where there is actually a reticulated, um, or there is actually evidence of a pipe, sewer pipe system that is there, just the absence of water. So we'll just get our team to go and assess what's actually happening whether it's the pressure issue and others, uh, um, issues that may be, you know, affecting,"},{"start":16265,"end":16274,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh, water not to come out normal. We'll, we'll do so, um, um, Councillor, uh, Mkasi, so that at least when"},{"start":16274,"end":16281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"nso","text":"ge o fihla lebakeng la go vouta, o se ke wa tlo re no, uh, ge o thetha o thetha because of a through ka ikgantšha rena metsi. So,"},{"start":16281,"end":16306,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we will do our part, ya, tlo bontšha gore ga re na le malwetši on the 4th of, uh, November when ANC take over this municipality, uh, and overwhelmingly across the country as a whole. We are of the view that ANC is the only experienced political party in terms of government and no one else have ever governed in national post-democracy, province and the cities other than the ANC. In such a way that we have satisfied our part"},{"start":16306,"end":16311,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Point of order, Madam Speaker. Point of order, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16314,"end":16321,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, I'm holding your time, uh, MMC, uh, Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":16321,"end":16331,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, the MMC represents all the residents, not the ANC only, please. He must not campaign. He is the MMC of everybody, not of the ANC. Thank you very much."},{"start":16335,"end":16339,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you please continue, MMC."},{"start":16343,"end":16367,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, Speaker, um, um, I think let's say that we request Council to, uh, to, to, to note the report. Um, and obviously let me not go further, because I think Councillor Mkhonza is panicking. Yeah, but let's, let's note this report, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16367,"end":16385,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, thank you, MMC Sekwaila. Colleagues, the recommendations are on point 3. are on page 3.8. Is the item agreed to? And our little exercise. Gogo. ACDP?"},{"start":16385,"end":16386,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":16386,"end":16389,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":16389,"end":16391,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16391,"end":16393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":16396,"end":16398,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Was that a yes?"},{"start":16401,"end":16405,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's go forward. GOOD?"},{"start":16405,"end":16407,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16407,"end":16412,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, what is that? You said um, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16412,"end":16415,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker. No."},{"start":16415,"end":16418,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":16418,"end":16420,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":16420,"end":16422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UIM?"},{"start":16422,"end":16424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16424,"end":16426,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":16430,"end":16432,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":16434,"end":16439,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's go past. Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":16439,"end":16442,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16442,"end":16444,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Was that ATM that said yes?"},{"start":16446,"end":16446,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":16446,"end":16452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It was two voices. Okay, Al Jama-ah. Um, COPE?"},{"start":16452,"end":16455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you Madam Speaker."},{"start":16455,"end":16459,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":16459,"end":16461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16461,"end":16463,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":16463,"end":16466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16466,"end":16468,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":16468,"end":16470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":16470,"end":16473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":16473,"end":16475,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16475,"end":16479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":16479,"end":16481,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16481,"end":16484,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":16484,"end":16486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16486,"end":16488,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":16488,"end":16490,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16490,"end":16493,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":16493,"end":16495,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16495,"end":16497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":16502,"end":16512,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Uh, majority is yes. It's only GOOD that said no. Thank you. STC, let's go."},{"start":16512,"end":16516,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on item four, which is the City of Johannesburg Informal Settlements Policy."},{"start":16516,"end":16528,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, come let's see who's first on the list. Uh, Councillor Lotz from GOOD."},{"start":16532,"end":16533,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Lotz."},{"start":16533,"end":16535,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":16535,"end":16537,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":16537,"end":16567,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Executive Mayor, members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors, thank you for the opportunity to rise on item four, the City of Johannesburg Informal Settlements Policy. Speaker, Johannesburg is facing an undeniable reality. Informal settlements have grown by 117% between 2016 and 2024. That means that the number of informal settlements has more than doubled in just eight years."},{"start":16567,"end":16597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This growth reflects not only rapid urbanization, but also the desperation of families who cannot access affordable housing, affordable adequate housing. It is a symptom of a deeper crisis, not a cause. Speaker, we must ask a fundamental question. Do people want formalization or do they want proper, adequate housing? Because formalization without housing is not progress, it is paperwork."},{"start":16597,"end":16627,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Communities living in informal settlements consistently tell us the same thing. They want dignity, safety, sanitation, electricity, and secure tenure. They want to raise their children in neighborhoods that are not hazardous, overcrowded, or cut off from opportunity. They want real homes, not just recognition of the structure they already live in. Speaker, uh, the policy, oops, let me just Speaker, the policy emphasizes minimum relocation,"},{"start":16627,"end":16657,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but many informal settlements are located in hazardous and inhumane conditions. Uh, floodplains, servitudes, and unstable land, and areas adjacent to tailings dams. The policy itself acknowledges this. Relocation applies to households which are in life-threatening conditions and warrants immediate intervention."},{"start":16657,"end":16668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The policy also encourages people in place wherever Yet the policy also encourages keeping people in place wherever possible."},{"start":16668,"end":16671,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"30 seconds, Councillor."},{"start":16671,"end":16700,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This intention is dangerous. We cannot formalize risk. We cannot upgrade danger, and we cannot pretend that incremental approach will magically transform unsafe land and into sustainable human settlements. Speaker, formalization must never become a substitute for housing delivery. The city must be honest. Communities do not aspire to remain in informal settlements, they aspire to move out of them. They want proper houses,"},{"start":16700,"end":16718,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the serviced stands and well-located opportunities serviced stands and well-located opportunities. Speaker, our residents deserve more than recognition, they deserve homes. We must ensure that this policy does not become a management tool for poverty, but a transition plan out of poverty. Thank you."},{"start":16718,"end":16727,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your time is up, Councillor. Thank you. Councillor S. Rambani from the DA."},{"start":16733,"end":16762,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, the Democratic Alliance notes and approves the policy as it stands. Uh Speaker, I want to raise a concern currently that as much as we are approving the policies, we have a situation currently in the informal settlement called Ezinqawe"},{"start":16762,"end":16790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"where the Department of Human Settlements has promised to actually replace the transformer to electrify the area. To date, it has been eight months, the people of Ezinqawe do not have electricity. Can the MMC assist us"},{"start":16790,"end":16798,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"in getting electricity for the people of Ezinqawe? Thank you very much. We note and accept the report."},{"start":16798,"end":16805,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Rambani. ACDP, Councillor R. Harris."},{"start":16805,"end":16836,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm rising to speak to the item four. The ACDP recognizes that the upgrading of informal settlements is a favored strategy of the Human Settlements Department, and it will take place in an incremental basis. Various codes and grants are in support of the strategy. Despite a wide variety of policy instruments available, informal settlements have expanded rapidly. The city is forced to legalize illegality,"},{"start":16836,"end":16866,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh firstly because they have failed to enforce existing bylaws, and secondly, their hands are bound by the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act. While acknowledging this strategy, key elements are sketchy. We note the use of different funding instruments. No budget or indication of a minimum annual budget is allocated to the strategy. The financial viability of the strategy is not adequately defined."},{"start":16866,"end":16899,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Key performance indicators and key deliverables of the informal settlements management unit is not set out. Stakeholder reviews are questionable. Residents of the informal settlements may benefit and have their dignity restored, but the impact on the wider community is not taken into consideration. Many settlements are next to suburbs and townships, and this policy may be construed as forced integration. There is no timelines provided for implementation. The risks associated with this policy are not clearly defined."},{"start":16899,"end":16916,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Accountability with regard to transversal relationships is not clearly defined either. For example, what recourse does Human Settlements have if Pikitup fails to provide services and end illegal dumping? The ACDP notes the tabling of this policy, and I thank you, Ma'am."},{"start":16923,"end":16927,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that, hey? No man, Da Rocha."},{"start":16927,"end":16930,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Asseblief tog."},{"start":16930,"end":16937,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, thank you so much, Councillor Harris. Councillor T. Nenemba."},{"start":16940,"end":16947,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, uh, you call my name and I did nothing wrong."},{"start":16947,"end":16979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"On the, on the, on the thing it showed that it was your mic that was open. But it's fine, I apologize if I blamed the wrong person. I'm also but just human. Thank you, colleagues. Uh, Councillor Nenemba. Sorry, Da Rocha. Lower your hand. Otherwise, I'll have to take a bike for you. Councillor Nenemba?"},{"start":16982,"end":16989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, he's not here. Then we go to the ANC, Councillor Mngadi."},{"start":16989,"end":16993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, UDM yes."},{"start":16993,"end":16998,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's saying yes? I'm not even by the yes portion."},{"start":17000,"end":17017,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mngadi? Okay. Mngadi. Mngadi. Sorry. Okay, the Councillor is not responding. Uh, MMC Mabaso?"},{"start":17020,"end":17022,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Partner, are you in the house?"},{"start":17022,"end":17024,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much."},{"start":17028,"end":17032,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor. Are you here?"},{"start":17039,"end":17044,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is it MMC speaking? Can you move, MMC?"},{"start":17053,"end":17054,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you hear me, Speaker?"},{"start":17054,"end":17057,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC. Yeah, now I can hear you."},{"start":17059,"end":17091,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to yourself and all the councillors that are present, the Executive Mayor, MMCs and the Deputy Executive Mayor, City Manager, and all the colleagues. Um, Speaker, I will request that Council approves the policy for the effective management of our informal settlements."},{"start":17091,"end":17122,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, we know and understand, Speaker, that how we've been responding to the issues of formalization, to the issues of providing services in the informal settlements has not been properly coordinated. But also, Speaker, the policy is also going to assist us in dealing and addressing"},{"start":17122,"end":17152,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the issues of shack farming within the informal settlements. So the department is in the process of developing a system that will effectively manage the movement within the informal settlements, where we will have a database and the files of those that are residing"},{"start":17152,"end":17185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"within the informal settlements, so that we get to deal with those that own more than one shack. But also, Speaker, we want to coordinate our response in terms of delivering services in the informal settlements. So I would really request, Speaker, that Council approve this policy so that the department can effectively work in developing our"},{"start":17185,"end":17200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"residents within the informal settlements. Thank you very much. I really apologize, Speaker, my connection is not really good. I think it's because of the weather condition, because I'm connecting from home."},{"start":17200,"end":17219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, um, MMC, for your input. Um, recommendations are on page 4.4, 4.5, and let's quickly do our exercise. ACDP?"},{"start":17219,"end":17221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":17221,"end":17224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":17224,"end":17225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":17225,"end":17228,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC, are you back?"},{"start":17231,"end":17235,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC? Okay. GOOD?"},{"start":17235,"end":17237,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17237,"end":17241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":17241,"end":17244,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":17244,"end":17246,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":17251,"end":17253,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":17257,"end":17258,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":17258,"end":17262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker. Yes, Speaker, ATM."},{"start":17262,"end":17265,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":17265,"end":17269,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Ma'am. Yes, Honourable Speaker."},{"start":17269,"end":17272,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":17272,"end":17274,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, thank you."},{"start":17274,"end":17278,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":17278,"end":17280,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":17280,"end":17283,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":17283,"end":17285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17285,"end":17288,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":17288,"end":17290,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":17290,"end":17293,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":17293,"end":17295,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17295,"end":17297,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":17300,"end":17302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17302,"end":17304,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"AksieSA?"},{"start":17307,"end":17309,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":17311,"end":17313,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17313,"end":17316,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":17316,"end":17318,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17318,"end":17320,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":17320,"end":17322,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17322,"end":17332,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ah, everybody's agreed. Thank you so much. STC? It's only APC that we didn't get a response."},{"start":17332,"end":17341,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, Councillors, item five is the City of Johannesburg Department of Human Settlements Land Assembly Strategy for 2025 to 2040."},{"start":17341,"end":17345,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA, Councillor S. Rambani."},{"start":17353,"end":17354,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"He just spoke on the"},{"start":17354,"end":17362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much. Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, the DA notes and accepts the report. Thank you very much."},{"start":17362,"end":17367,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Rambani. ACDP, Councillor Harris."},{"start":17372,"end":17377,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, apologies, the ACDP notes the report."},{"start":17377,"end":17400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Can you silence yourself? Councillor Nenemba. Not here. Um, Councillor, what's it, Mngadi? Mngadi. Not here. MMC Mabaso. Partner."},{"start":17400,"end":17417,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, thank you very, thank you very much, Speaker. Um, earlier on, Speaker, I omitted to acknowledge all the Aldermen and Alderwomen that are in the meeting."},{"start":17417,"end":17420,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Alderman also."},{"start":17420,"end":17447,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, we must be recognized, Speaker. Um, Speaker, I appreciate that all the caucuses and councillors are in support of the item. Um, we request that Council approve this report, Speaker, that will assist us to effectively plan for development,"},{"start":17447,"end":17455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but also to consolidate all the strategic land parcels for proper development. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":17455,"end":17465,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. The recommendations are on page 5.4. Let's see whether we agree. ACDP?"},{"start":17471,"end":17475,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP is gone. They went for lunch. Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":17475,"end":17477,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's yes, ACDP. Yes."},{"start":17477,"end":17482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":17482,"end":17486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17486,"end":17489,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":17496,"end":17503,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM, can you mute? GOOD?"},{"start":17503,"end":17504,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":17504,"end":17506,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":17506,"end":17508,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17508,"end":17511,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, UDM?"},{"start":17511,"end":17514,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":17514,"end":17518,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM, you can speak now."},{"start":17518,"end":17520,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17520,"end":17523,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":17528,"end":17531,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":17531,"end":17534,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17534,"end":17537,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":17537,"end":17539,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17539,"end":17541,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":17544,"end":17546,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17546,"end":17550,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":17550,"end":17552,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17552,"end":17555,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":17555,"end":17557,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17557,"end":17561,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":17561,"end":17563,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17563,"end":17565,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":17569,"end":17572,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":17572,"end":17574,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17574,"end":17576,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":17576,"end":17578,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17578,"end":17581,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":17581,"end":17583,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17583,"end":17595,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We did not get the response from the APC and the EFF, so, but we are fine to go. Everybody else is in agreement."},{"start":17595,"end":17601,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"[inaudible] Speaker. Speaker."},{"start":17601,"end":17604,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, who's saying Speaker?"},{"start":17604,"end":17607,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor Gantsho from the EFF."},{"start":17607,"end":17609,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, sir?"},{"start":17609,"end":17613,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, we just want you to note."},{"start":17613,"end":17615,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you agreeing?"},{"start":17615,"end":17617,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We agree."},{"start":17617,"end":17623,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Because when I called you, you guys were silent. Right, next item."},{"start":17623,"end":17625,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Network issues, Speaker."},{"start":17625,"end":17627,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No problem."},{"start":17627,"end":17635,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on item six, and that's the request for the approval of the Skills Development Strategy of the City of Johannesburg."},{"start":17635,"end":17643,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item six. Councillor B. Jacobs."},{"start":17643,"end":17672,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. I rise to speak on item six, the Skills Development Policy. Uh, all protocol observed. Madam Speaker, this policy was put before the Section 79 Committee on the 20th of August. Let it be noted that the Section 79 Committee had a lot of issues connecting, and we advised the Section 79 Committee that we could not connect because of the issues. This was ignored."},{"start":17672,"end":17703,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Had we been allowed the opportunity to speak on this platform, we'd have said procedurally and otherwise there were issues regarding this policy. Um, the Skills Development Policy, Madam, is similar to that of the Economic Development one, um, where the business hubs have this type of skills development policy. This leads me to a question: if the Economic Development Skills Development Policy is not working in the City of Johannesburg,"},{"start":17703,"end":17732,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"why is the Social Development Department now trying to take on something that is already not working and repeating the same mistakes and failures, which is actually a detriment to the residents? And then furthermore, the ANC, EFF, and PA administration is dead set on putting out policies in the hope of it somehow landing and sticking somewhere, you know. Um, and it has landed nowhere thus far, truly hurting the residents."},{"start":17732,"end":17763,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And I say this simply because if we look at, number one, we were quick to, there's no implementation policies, number one, no financial policies attached to this on how they're going to do that. And we've seen from history and examples that we look at the Bertrams Centre, it's going nowhere. Nowhere. And this is where we were supposed to give people skills development, etc., etc., and it's standing a white elephant, despite the Executive Mayor saying we've got no financial problems."},{"start":17763,"end":17785,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That is going nowhere. The Displaced Centre, the homeless centre in Devland, nowhere. And yet, Social Development wants to take on this role, they want to push through policies just because they can make promises to residents, empty promises. We've had enough of the ANC, EFF, and"},{"start":17785,"end":17789,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Leave us alone, man. Leave the PA."},{"start":17789,"end":17815,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA lying to the residents, making promises that they cannot fulfill. Madam Speaker, we cannot support this item. We cannot endorse wasteful expenditure any further. And so we also say, Madam Speaker, when the DA comes into power, not only do we talk,"},{"start":17815,"end":17831,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we walk the walk as well. And so residents can be assured when we put policies in place, it will be followed with an implementation plan and a financial plan. Vote DA on the 4th of November. Thank you."},{"start":17834,"end":17843,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, who's next? Uh, Councillor Mkhonza. Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":17843,"end":17873,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, thank you very much, um, Madam Speaker. Um, looking at the City of Joburg as the economic hub, uh, Madam Speaker, as well as the rate of unemployment rate, especially the youth, um, it is upon us as councillors to remember that without skills development,"},{"start":17873,"end":17897,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"we are not going anywhere as a city, which contributes to the overall, um, GDP of the province as well as the country. So skills development is very, um, important, despite our political differences. So as the ACDP, we will support this, um, skills development program. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":17897,"end":17904,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mkhonza. Councillor Ntoele from the EFF."},{"start":17907,"end":17907,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":17907,"end":17937,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Um, Madam Speaker, I rise on item six, request for the approval of the Skills Development Strategy of the City of Johannesburg. That's the Social Development item. Revolutionary greetings, Honourable Speaker. Speaker, am I audible?"},{"start":17937,"end":17940,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are, Ma'am. Councillor."},{"start":17940,"end":17968,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, thank you. Thank you so much. Honourable Speaker, I rise in support of the report before Council seeking for approval of the Skills Development Strategy of the Department of Social Development. Honourable Speaker, this strategy comes at a critical time of our city and our country. South Africa continues to face extremely high unemployment, particularly among young people."},{"start":17968,"end":18000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The circumstances remind us that skill development cannot simply be about training for the sake of training. It must create meaningful pathways towards employment, entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods, and economic participation. The position is also reflected in the recent view expressed by the EFF's Johannesburg mayoral candidate, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, in an interview published by Daily"},{"start":18000,"end":18020,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Daily Maverick on the 16th of August 2026, EFF's Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng outlined her vision for Johannesburg. In the interview, Dr. Tlaleng stated that the city should have internship and skill development linked to its core service delivery work on infrastructure needs."},{"start":18020,"end":18042,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, this is important because the strategy before is similarly seeks, the strategy before us similarly seek to ensure that skill development responds to the actual needs of our communities and create pathways towards employed micro-enterprises and cooperatives."},{"start":18042,"end":18061,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We therefore support the recommendation that council approves the skill development strategy. However, approval must be followed by the implementation, measurable targets and proper oversight. We must ultimately measure success by the, we must"},{"start":18061,"end":18074,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ultimately measure success by not the number of certificates issued, but by the number of residents who gain employment, sustainable livelihoods and meaningful economic opportunities."},{"start":18074,"end":18096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"To the residents of Johannesburg, implementation can only be guaranteed on only if we, only if Dr. Tlaleng is voted for as a mayor, and let the DA Speaker go and fix the City of Cape Town. I thank you."},{"start":18096,"end":18104,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Ntoele. Can we now have Councillor Z Mothupi?"},{"start":18110,"end":18121,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. This is Councillor NG Mphaho. Speaker, I will club item 6 and 7."},{"start":18121,"end":18126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no. It was not read out like that. You only do item 6."},{"start":18126,"end":18128,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Speaker."},{"start":18130,"end":18153,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Honourable Speaker, Executive Mayor, Deputy Executive Mayor, Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, members of the Mayoral Committee, uh fellow councillors, guests in the gallery, and most importantly, residents of the City of Johannesburg."},{"start":18153,"end":18178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I rise on item 30 and 31, both of which request the approval of two important strategies, namely the Skills Development Strategies of the City of Johannesburg and the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Strategy of the Department of Social Development."},{"start":18178,"end":18215,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Firstly, the Skills Development Strategy of the City of Johannesburg aim to bridge the the gap between the department skills development program, the skills plan outlined by the by the respective SETAs and the skills needs of potential employers in the city, equipping young young people within skills that increase their their employability."},{"start":18215,"end":18231,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Lastly, the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Strategy of the Department of Social Development aim to ensure that all GBVF intervention along with their related program,"},{"start":18231,"end":18236,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor. Councillor."},{"start":18236,"end":18237,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, yes, Speaker?"},{"start":18237,"end":18238,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor."},{"start":18238,"end":18239,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker?"},{"start":18239,"end":18242,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are not on item 7 as yet. We are not doing the GBV strategy."},{"start":18242,"end":18245,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Speaker."},{"start":18245,"end":18250,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Please input your Skills Development Strategy, please."},{"start":18250,"end":18257,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Speaker. Um, as the ANC we note uh item 6 report. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":18257,"end":18263,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Um MMC Makhafola."},{"start":18266,"end":18302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker, and good afternoon to yourself, to the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Executive Mayor, MMCs, councillors, um City Manager, and all officials. Um Speaker, I will be speaking on the Skills Development Strategy. Um the strategy, Speaker, uh provides a clear framework to guide all skills development and training programs offered by the department, ensuring that they are aligned with the city's Growth and Development Strategy 2040 and respond to the needs of vulnerable residents."},{"start":18302,"end":18330,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, the strategy is the product of extensive research, stakeholder consultation, benchmarking, and gap analysis. It reflects the views of industry partners, training providers, community stakeholders, as well as program beneficiaries. Importantly, the strategy focuses not only on training, Speaker, but on the creating pathways on creating pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, cooperatives, and sustainable livelihoods."},{"start":18330,"end":18346,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"By approving this strategy, Council will strengthen the city's ability to empower residents with the relevant skills and expand opportunities for meaningful economic participation. Therefore, Speaker, I request Council to approve the Skills Development Strategy, and I thank you."},{"start":18350,"end":18359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, MMC. Recommendations, page 6.7. Let's do our exercise. ACDP?"},{"start":18359,"end":18362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":18362,"end":18364,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":18368,"end":18370,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, they're in caucus."},{"start":18370,"end":18371,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain."},{"start":18371,"end":18382,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain? Abstain. Okay. Please note, abstain. APC? Good?"},{"start":18388,"end":18390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":18393,"end":18394,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":18394,"end":18396,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":18396,"end":18398,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18398,"end":18400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":18402,"end":18404,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"xh","text":"Ewe, Somlomo wethu."},{"start":18407,"end":18410,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon? Yes, neh? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":18410,"end":18412,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"xh","text":"Ewe."},{"start":18415,"end":18417,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":18420,"end":18422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":18422,"end":18423,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":18426,"end":18427,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":18427,"end":18429,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":18431,"end":18433,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Yebo, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18433,"end":18436,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":18436,"end":18439,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":18439,"end":18442,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":18442,"end":18443,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18443,"end":18447,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":18447,"end":18448,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18448,"end":18450,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18450,"end":18452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":18452,"end":18455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18455,"end":18457,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":18457,"end":18459,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18459,"end":18462,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":18462,"end":18464,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18464,"end":18466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good?"},{"start":18466,"end":18468,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":18468,"end":18470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":18474,"end":18482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We have one that abstains, and one that said no, am I right? DA and"},{"start":18485,"end":18490,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, abstain. APC."},{"start":18496,"end":18509,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus abstained, and DA said no. The majority said yes. Thank you. Item carried."},{"start":18512,"end":18522,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed to item 7, and that's the request for the approval of the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Strategy of the Department of Social Development."},{"start":18525,"end":18527,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Harris?"},{"start":18530,"end":18556,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you, Madam Speaker. Uh the ACDP is grateful that this item is being tabled. On the 26th of December 2024, Chesnay Keppler was shot and killed by her boyfriend in Eldorado Park. Nearly two years later, the matter is still crawling through the justice system. The family of Boitumelo Mashita is left grieving after losing their daughter so senselessly this past Monday."},{"start":18556,"end":18584,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I quote from the report and uh open quotes: \"GBVF, being a transversal matter, is addressed by government at all levels through a plethora of relevant national, provincial, and local laws, legislation, policies, and strategies. The integration of these interventions is critical.\" If the above is not taken seriously, bureaucracy and red tape will emasculate this timeous strategy."},{"start":18584,"end":18611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Amongst the initiatives suggested would be attention to street lighting, employing and empowering patrollers at hotspots, with training and skills development, empowering first responders to cases of violence, challenging SAPS to take every report seriously, and then last and not but not least, the cost containment cannot be an issue in implementing this strategy."},{"start":18611,"end":18644,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"A real test would be the employment of social workers outside of the dictates of the Employment Equity Act. The demographics of the people employed must match the people being served. Access to safe housing is critical. There are a number of abandoned buildings that can be refurbished. It requires political will to do this. The Targeted Beneficiaries Unit must engage the community, and they must be given powers to extract cooperation from all role players and stakeholders."},{"start":18644,"end":18665,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I think particularly the fact that the SAPS would turn away GBV uh complainants, I think that needs to be addressed seriously, though that's not our competency. May this policy help to ensure those who have lost their lives will never remain more than statistics. The ACDP supports this item, Madam Speaker, and I thank you."},{"start":18665,"end":18670,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Harris. UDM, Councillor Y Zigebe?"},{"start":18673,"end":18676,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Support the item, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":18679,"end":18683,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor C Fourie-Shawe, DA?"},{"start":18683,"end":18717,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Today we are being asked to approve the city's Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Strategy. We do support its purpose. Every woman, child, and vulnerable resident deserves to live safely, and every survivor deserves help when they need it. Although this strategy does speak about awareness campaigns, prevention, psychosocial support, safe spaces, skills development, partnerships, and economic empowerment, it does not tell us clearly what will be delivered, how much it will cost, who is responsible, or when we should see results."},{"start":18717,"end":18741,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"According to data tracked by organizations like UN Women, South Africa's femicide rate is roughly five times higher than the global average. Studies show that approximately a third of our country's women have experienced physical violence in their lifetime. The response to the endemic crisis can no longer just be words. Where is the measurable action?"},{"start":18741,"end":18767,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report says the money for implementation will be sought through the budget process and partnerships. So, essentially, Council is being asked to approve the strategy before seeing a costed plan that tells us what services will be funded and how they will reach residents. We cannot hold the department accountable for promises when the plan does not say what resources are committed or what results it must deliver."},{"start":18767,"end":18803,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is not just a concern from opposition benches, Madam Speaker. Organizations working directly with survivors have been raising the alarm. The National Shelter Movement warned that shelters were under financial pressure and that the 2025 national budget did not make clear dedicated provision for their services. In Parliament, members raised concerns about slow implementation, funding shortfalls, and poor coordination in the national response. At the 2026 Women's Parliament, participants again called for measurable targets, gender-responsive budgets, and consequences when commitments are not delivered."},{"start":18803,"end":18829,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, a strategy is not a service. Survivors do not need another promise that funding will be found later. The department should return rather with a costed implementation plan, measurable targets, named responsibilities, and regular reports to this Council on funding, progress, and service gaps. That is the bare minimum we should expect."},{"start":18829,"end":18855,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Enough of the plans that sound good on paper, but does nothing in reality to rid our society of this crisis. If we truly value our mothers, our daughters, sisters, and wives, we must ensure services are funded, and there is a clear line of responsibility, and that results can be measured. Um the Democratic Alliance will therefore not be supporting this item in its current form. Thank you."},{"start":18855,"end":18858,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Ntoele from the EFF?"},{"start":18864,"end":18866,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Ntoele?"},{"start":18868,"end":18873,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's go to the next councillor. Councillor Z Mothupi?"},{"start":18880,"end":18888,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mothupi is also not picking up. Uh MMC Makhafola?"},{"start":18888,"end":18891,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I'm here."},{"start":18891,"end":18892,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's \"I'm here\"?"},{"start":18892,"end":18895,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh I rise on item 7. It's Councillor"},{"start":18895,"end":18897,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's \"I'm here\"?"},{"start":18897,"end":18901,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor NG Mphaho. I'll speak on item 7."},{"start":18901,"end":18902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ma'am, you came."},{"start":18902,"end":18910,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Thank you, Speaker. Uh as the African National, we note the report. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":18910,"end":18916,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Ma'am. MMC Makhafola?"},{"start":18916,"end":18943,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Um Speaker, it's very disheartening to hear the comments from the DA, but I guess there's nothing that's really surprising us at the moment. Speaker, um to speak on the GBV strategy of the Department of Social Development, a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening the City's Joburg's uh City of Joburg's response to one of the most pressing social challenges facing our communities."},{"start":18943,"end":18966,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The strategy, Speaker, reflects the city's commitment to promoting a safer, more inclusive, and equitable communities while protecting the rights and dignities of all residents. The purpose of this strategy is to provide a coordinated framework for the planning and implementing of the GBVF programs, projects, and interventions across the city."},{"start":18966,"end":18996,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It aligns, Speaker, with the City's of Joburg's uh Growth and Development Strategy 2040, and also supports the objective of improving quality of life and resilience for vulnerable communities. Madam Speaker, this strategy was informed by the extensive research, as well as uh stakeholder consultations, the benchmarking exercises, and community engagement involving women, men, and members of the LGBTQI+ community, community leaders, as well as sector experts."},{"start":18996,"end":19020,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This engagement, Madam Speaker, highlighted the urgent need for stronger prevention measures, improved support services for our survivors, enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable empowerment opportunities for those affected by GBVF. Importantly, the strategy seeks not only to respond to incidents of violence, Speaker,"},{"start":19020,"end":19047,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but it also wants to address underlying social and economic vulnerabilities. It promotes access to the same skills development, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship initiatives that can assist survivors in rebuilding their lives and ensuring that they achieve economic independence. This strategy, Speaker, provides a clear roadmap for strengthening service delivery, for supporting survivors, for educating communities,"},{"start":19047,"end":19071,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and advancing a culture of dignity, equality, and safety within the City of Johannesburg. I therefore request the Council to approve the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Strategy for the Department of Social Development, and also, Speaker, reaffirm our collective commitment to ending violence against women, children, and the vulnerable groups. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":19075,"end":19095,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, um, MMC. Uh the recommendations is on page 7.8. Is the item agreed to?"},{"start":19095,"end":19096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes."},{"start":19096,"end":19112,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh let me go to the exercise. Sorry. Um I'm disturbed by councillors wanting to remove other councillors from the platform. ACDP?"},{"start":19112,"end":19114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":19114,"end":19116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":19116,"end":19118,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain."},{"start":19118,"end":19126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain. APC? You're not here. Good?"},{"start":19126,"end":19128,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19128,"end":19131,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":19131,"end":19133,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":19133,"end":19135,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":19135,"end":19137,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19137,"end":19139,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":19143,"end":19149,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":19149,"end":19156,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Colleagues, I'm not too happy about supporting this Employment Equity Act um"},{"start":19156,"end":19160,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Harris!"},{"start":19160,"end":19161,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's fine, Councillor Harris."},{"start":19161,"end":19163,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Harris!"},{"start":19165,"end":19168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sincere apologies, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19168,"end":19185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Where was I? With COPE now, neh? Al Jama-ah? Thapelo, Gwamanda, Karolia? Okay. COPE?"},{"start":19185,"end":19186,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":19186,"end":19188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes from Al Jama-ah, Speaker."},{"start":19188,"end":19194,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. AHC?"},{"start":19194,"end":19196,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":19196,"end":19200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hayi, mfolofosho. AIC?"},{"start":19205,"end":19209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This one went all through. IFP?"},{"start":19209,"end":19211,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":19211,"end":19214,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":19214,"end":19215,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19215,"end":19219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":19219,"end":19221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19221,"end":19223,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":19223,"end":19225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19225,"end":19227,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":19227,"end":19230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19230,"end":19232,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":19232,"end":19234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19234,"end":19240,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, DA says no. ATM, did I get you?"},{"start":19240,"end":19242,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19242,"end":19263,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. So, Freedom Front Plus abstained, ANC—ag, DA says no, uh and the rest says all yes. Thank you so much. Let's go to the next item. We are moving, we are moving, and I like the way we are moving."},{"start":19263,"end":19272,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh item 8 is a request for approval of the revised Group Employment Equity Policy Framework."},{"start":19272,"end":19281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um let's see who's first on the list. Where's my list? Councillor Lotz?"},{"start":19281,"end":19285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh let me unmute myself."},{"start":19285,"end":19286,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are unmuted."},{"start":19286,"end":19291,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, okay. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19294,"end":19328,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I rise to speak on item 8. Speaker, the Employment Equity Act requires that our workforce broadly reflects the demographics of the communities we serve. That is the law. But the intention of the Act was never to reduce people to numbers. It was never meant to become a blunt instrument. It was meant to remove barriers, so what it was it was meant to remove barriers, widen opportunity, and ensure that no group is systematically excluded from public employment."},{"start":19328,"end":19362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yet, Speaker, across the country, and increasingly in this city, we are hearing calls to scrap employment equity altogether. Not because people reject fairness, but because they feel that the Act has been misused. They feel it has been applied in ways that exclude rather than include, in ways that harden divisions rather than heal them, in ways that reduce equity to arithmetics instead of justice. These concerns cannot be dismissed; they must be confronted honestly."},{"start":19362,"end":19399,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Because even with the Act in place, many groups in Johannesburg remain excluded from meaningful participation in the city's workforce. Persons with disabilities remain severely underrepresented. Women are still clustered at lower levels and remain scarce in senior and top management. Minority communities and several language groups are almost invisible in our recruitment pipelines. And despite being the most diverse city on the continent, our workforce does not yet mirror the full spectrum of Johannesburg's people."},{"start":19399,"end":19428,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, this is not a failure of the Act; it is a failure of implementation, and this is why Johannesburg must lead. We must lead in restoring the spirit of the Act, not just the letter. We must lead in demonstrating that employment equity is not about exclusion, but about inclusion; not about gatekeeping, but about opening doors; not about punishing groups, but uplifting those historically left behind."},{"start":19428,"end":19460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, the equity is not only a constitutional obligation; it is a service delivery imperative. A city that does not reflect its people cannot serve its people. When communities see themselves represented in the city's workforce, trust increases, participation improves, and service delivery becomes more responsive and more humane. Johannesburg must show the country that employment equity can work when implemented with integrity, fairness, and humanity."},{"start":19460,"end":19474,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I support the intention of this report, but urge that we approve its framework. We commit ourselves to its spirit, not only to its text. Let us lead the nation. Thank you."},{"start":19474,"end":19476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor."},{"start":19476,"end":19480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid Boer?"},{"start":19480,"end":19481,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Mevrou die Speaker."},{"start":19481,"end":19507,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, fellow councillors, I'm rising on item number 8, the Employment Equity Policy Framework. Um, this framework is, of course, based on the Employment Equity Act. It's an Act of 1998, one of the ANC's racial acts that they imposed on us, an Act that created and is responsible for the massive unemployment that we see in our country."},{"start":19507,"end":19540,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This Act is a diabolic act which should have never been put on the on the law book. But, Madam Speaker, it is there, and our city has got a policy around this. But we are not adhering to our own policy at all. Um, the Act provides that um people have to be appointed based on their racial um representation in the city."},{"start":19540,"end":19576,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And the Act specifically says if some racial groups are overexposed and some are underexposed, when we apply new persons uh in a position, that we have to fill them in that specific underrepresented um category, which causes enormous problems. Uh, because if a person from one category applies for a job, highly qualified, we cannot appoint him because he unfortunately belongs to an overrepresented group. So, this policy is absolutely diabolic."},{"start":19576,"end":19615,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, it also speaks to foreign nationals. Uh, funny enough, if we read on page 9 of the policy, in line with the Group EE Policy, uh, the City of Johannesburg prioritize the employment and advancement of South African citizens from designated groups. The appointment of non-designated foreign nationals is not the norm and shall be considered only in exceptional and justifiable circumstances, and nobody knows what those justifiable circumstances are because you also employ in the city foreign nationals above our local people that are unemployed."},{"start":19615,"end":19626,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um, it says further, a non-designated foreign national may be considered for short-term or fixed-term employment where the position requires"},{"start":19626,"end":19628,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"dertig sekondes."},{"start":19628,"end":19655,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"demonstrable scarce or critical skills, no suitably qualified South African citizen is available. Madam Speaker, I don't buy into those criteria because we do have the skills in South Africa. Madam Speaker, this city need employment quality, and we do not need employment equity, and we reject this policy with all we have. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":19655,"end":19667,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, uh, Councillor Boer. Have some water, please. Um, Councillor Harris?"},{"start":19667,"end":19698,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak on item 8, the Employment Equity Policy. Madam Speaker, I can't understand why is it that 32 years after the fall of apartheid, we are forced to implement a national policy that still speaks to racial quotas, and yet we're supposed to be a non-racial South Africa. That is uh that's a question that needs some strong drink to make it go down."},{"start":19698,"end":19734,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But here's my challenge, Madam Speaker: In a City of Johannesburg with so many um so many challenges, and I speak specifically about the um minorities, and in this case, the Coloured people, if you look at the serious unemployment rates that are going on there, and yet they are confined to not getting more than three or four out of every 100 um employment opportunities, and it extends to other parts of the economy as well. So, my contention, Madam Speaker, is that the City of Johannesburg"},{"start":19734,"end":19736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, love?"},{"start":19736,"end":19747,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hayi, what loves are going on? Uh-uh, go love somewhere else. Councillor."},{"start":19747,"end":19777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I carry on? Uh Madam Speaker, I believe that even though the City of Johannesburg is doing the right thing by um implementing the policy in line with the national policy, the City of Johannesburg should be bold enough to say to the Minister of Labour that the Employment Equity Act is a devastating piece of legislation that is killing the hopes and dreams of so many young people in the City of Johannesburg."},{"start":19777,"end":19800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The policy may be right, it's lacking, I think, in terms of the uh focus on people with disabilities, but I think we need to get to a stage as Johannesburgers and as South Africans to reject this race-based quotas because it is killing everything that we hold dear as South Africans. We"},{"start":19800,"end":19808,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"will never ever be able to create a national consciousness whilst this piece of legislation is on the books, it must be rejected."},{"start":19808,"end":19821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And the City of Johannesburg must be bold and stand up and say that we, on behalf of the citizens, the all six million residents of Johannesburg, reject this policy out of hand. We note the report, Madam. Thank you."},{"start":19821,"end":19831,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Harris. Councillor Mabelebele from ActionSA."},{"start":19831,"end":19832,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Akekho."},{"start":19832,"end":19839,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, good day, Speaker. It will be taken by Councillor Sondag."},{"start":19839,"end":19840,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your clock"},{"start":19840,"end":19841,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you with me there?"},{"start":19841,"end":19846,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your clock is ticking."},{"start":19846,"end":19868,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, fabulous 44, all protocol observed. I rise to speak on Item 8, the Revised Group Employment Equity Policy Framework. Madam Speaker, the Revised Group Work Equity Framework is a critical step towards strengthening transformation, fairness, inclusion and accountability across the city"},{"start":19868,"end":19895,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and its municipal entities. Different approaches across the city administration and municipal entities can produce uneven outcomes, inconsistent standards, and fragmented accountability. This weakens organizational cohesion and undermines our collective commitment to transformation. For this reason, a common minimum framework supported by standard operating procedure,"},{"start":19895,"end":19919,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"central monitoring mechanism, and alignment at board level within municipal entities is essential. Such framework will ensure consistency in implementing improvement oversight and create shared understanding of Employment Equity Act obligations across the entire municipality. This framework also gives effect to the requirements of the Employment Equity Act,"},{"start":19919,"end":19943,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"particularly regarding affirmative action, non-discrimination, reasonable accommodation, and diversity in the workplace. The disability flexible work arrangement standard operational procedure is a positive example of how the city can create an inclusive environment where all employees can contribute meaningfully. Madam Speaker,"},{"start":19943,"end":19973,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a municipality can only deliver quality services when it has capable, diverse, and representative workforce. Employment equity is not merely a compliance exercise; it is a strategic tool that enables the municipality to attract, develop, and retain talent from all sectors of society. A workforce that reflects the communities it serves is better positioned to understand the needs of residents,"},{"start":19973,"end":19999,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"make informed decisions, and build public trust by promoting fairness, equal opportunity, and diversity. This will contribute to improved organizational performance, stronger leadership pipelines, enhanced employee morale, and ultimately better service delivery to our community. Madam Speaker, a matter that requires urgent attention in the issue of prolonged acting appointments."},{"start":19999,"end":20030,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"When acting appointments extend beyond prescribed periods, they can unintentionally restrict opportunities for advancement and perpetuate under-representation. Acting positions should not become substitutes for transparent and equitable recruitment processes. The city can therefore strengthen governance and oversight of acting appointments to ensure compliance with approved policies, municipal staff regulations, and Employment Equity Plan."},{"start":20030,"end":20056,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This will help create a workplace where career enhancement is fair, transparent, and aligned with transformation objectives. Similarly, uncontrolled deviations and inconsistent selection practices can undermine employment equity targets and compromise public confidence in recruitment processes. Madam Speaker, transformation cannot succeed without accountability."},{"start":20056,"end":20086,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Without reliable performance information and clearly assigned responsibility, transformation commitments cannot be effectively measured, evaluated, or corrected. We therefore support the institutionalization of both qualitative and quantitative employment equity reporting, accompanied by leadership accountability, consultative oversight, and regular monitoring of progress. Policy commitment must be reflected in measurable outcomes."},{"start":20086,"end":20091,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, the success of this framework will not be measured by the policy document itself,"},{"start":20091,"end":20092,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"40 seconds."},{"start":20092,"end":20117,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but its impact on the municipality and the people we serve. Implemented effectively, it will contribute more representative workforce, stronger, oh gosh, stronger will contribute representative workforce, stronger constitutional capacity, better governance, improved employees development, and ultimately enhance service delivery."},{"start":20117,"end":20142,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We call upon the voters in Johannesburg, Madam Speaker, to think clearly. They have been misled for far too long. Come the 4th of November, we can do this again. Mashaba has been there as the mayor and has proven his track record. We need Herman Mashaba as a mayor in the City of Johannesburg, so we are calling upon our communities to vote for ActionSA on the 4th of November. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":20142,"end":20149,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Time is up, Councillor Sondag. Time is up."},{"start":20149,"end":20154,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that one?"},{"start":20154,"end":20160,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Hooper."},{"start":20160,"end":20162,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good day, Speaker."},{"start":20162,"end":20163,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good day."},{"start":20163,"end":20193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good day, Speaker. I rise to speak on Item 8, the approval of the Revised Group Employment Equity Policy Framework, all protocol observed. Speaker, we welcome revised and updated organizational policies, and we know that employment equity is currently legislated by national government and is part and parcel of a number of pieces of municipal legislation. Yet how can naively striving for a more egalitarian workplace matter"},{"start":20193,"end":20220,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"when extensive employee abuse is taking place within the administration and performance management is not up to the standard of other metros? In fact, this policy framework is merely emulating and replicating the governance and strategic human resource successes of the City of Tshwane and the City of Cape Town. The main issue with equity in the City of Johannesburg's administration is the lack of intentional and proactive engagement"},{"start":20220,"end":20250,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and networking with disability interest groups and job profiling platforms and databases that actually assist differently-abled professionals to find and secure employment in the public sector. The focus is on setting and achieving identitarian targets and outcomes rather than attracting and retaining the best talent that can truly serve the residents and ratepayers of Johannesburg. The targets seem to matter more than actually finding"},{"start":20250,"end":20281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the people to fulfill said targets. The other issue is the sexist and almost misogynistic obsession with filling certain roles with either men or women. This will hopefully be rectified by the new policy framework, which stipulates service delivery and projects cannot be hampered or hindered by delayed hiring due to predetermined equity targets. Another core issue is that employment equity simply cannot be effected or adhered to"},{"start":20281,"end":20310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"when there is poor alignment in silos, duplicated functions and roles, insufficient budgets, under-capacitated teams, substandard office spaces, a lack of clearly defined scorecards for many workers and officials, and inexperienced cadre-filled boards at the municipal entities. Another pertinent issue is the Institutional Review Programme or IRP, which has been delayed for years,"},{"start":20310,"end":20339,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and the transactional advisor involved in the current stage of the process hasn't been paid. Speaker, the organizational redesign of the city is urgently needed and is crucial to developing clearly defined and accountable departments, directorates, and municipal entities. And then employment equity initiatives and fair labor practices can be effectively planned and implemented by skilled and experienced professionals"},{"start":20339,"end":20369,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and without harming decision-making, filling roles, and ensuring service delivery and project implementation in communities. Ultimately, the residents can elect more competent and caring leadership by voting for Mama Helen Zille as Executive Mayor. She will no doubt end unfair HR processes. She will end employee abuse within the administration. She will end undue influence and unfair cadre deployment."},{"start":20369,"end":20387,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And she will ensure the best talent from across the city and indeed the country is attracted to work for the city's administration. Residents, let's get Joburg working. We note and approve the report and the policy framework for compliance reasons. I thank you."},{"start":20387,"end":20399,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Hooper. Councillor P. Nhlapo from the EFF."},{"start":20399,"end":20403,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, can we go past?"},{"start":20403,"end":20410,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor M. Mzolo."},{"start":20410,"end":20440,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngibingelele, Honourable Speaker. Ngibingelele Executive Mayor. Ngibingelele i-Deputy Executive Mayor. Ngibingelele ama-member we-Mayoral Committee. Ngibingelele amakhansela amahle we-GNU. Angazi ukuthi mhlawumbe ngibabingelele laba abanye namhlanje, kodwa ngizobabingelela. Ngibingelele i-delusional 44."},{"start":20440,"end":20454,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngibingelele lamakhansela aweykibhe ezimbi eyi-blue. Ngibingelele ama-city officials. Ngibingelele abahlali baseGoli. Ngibingelele bonke laba abajoyinile namhlanje virtually."},{"start":20454,"end":20485,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, before I address the business before council, I would like us to pause and acknowledge the councillors we have lost during the course of this term. Each of them contributed to the work of this council and in their own way served the people of Johannesburg. As we continue with the responsibilities entrusted to us, may we remember their contributions and extend our thoughts to their families, friends, and colleagues."},{"start":20485,"end":20515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I rise in support of Item 8, which seeks council approval for the Revised Group Employment Equity Policy Framework and its supporting standard operating procedures. This item is important because employment equity is not simply an administrative requirement. It speaks directly to the kind of institution we want the City of Johannesburg to be and whether our workforce reflects the principles of equality, transformation, fairness, and inclusion."},{"start":20515,"end":20545,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The city's existing Employment Equity and Transformation Policy dates back to 2014. While the legislative and regulatory environment has changed significantly, the revised framework therefore seeks to bring the city into alignment with the current employment equity framework and the 2025 sectoral targets. Madam Speaker, the revised framework strengthens target setting, monitoring, reporting, accountability,"},{"start":20545,"end":20576,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and deviation management. It also addresses gender representation, particularly at top and senior management levels, disability inclusion, recruitment and selection, acting appointments, training and development, and succession planning. These are not simply words for a policy document. If we approve this framework, implementation must follow. Targets must be measured, progress must be monitored,"},{"start":20576,"end":20607,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"deviations must be properly explained, and management must be held accountable. The report records consultation with organized labor, employee representatives, city departments, and municipal entities, as well as benchmarking with other metropolitan municipalities. Madam Speaker, perhaps while we are discussing policy and governance, we should remind ourselves that five years in council"},{"start":20607,"end":20611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ought to be enough time to understand how council works."},{"start":20611,"end":20613,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Tshepo, la ngikhuluma nawe."},{"start":20613,"end":20643,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As you prepare for life outside this council, perhaps next term can be your academic term. Take the opportunity to read the council report, understand the legislative framework, and familiarize yourself with the work we have been doing here. After five years, one would have hoped the council agenda would no longer look like a surprise examination paper."},{"start":20643,"end":20663,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngoba ngempela Tshepo, uyahlaza nje abahlali baseSoweto mawungazi ukuthi senzani la ku-council. Madam Speaker, ngoba sengiqalile ngizoqhubeka. Ngoba kube khona lo ovuse indaba yesalukazi, nami ngiye ngithi nje ngiyendlule ngakhona kulomgqiliba wesalukazi."},{"start":20663,"end":20694,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And then we have those who would have us believe that Johannesburg needs to be rescued by politicians who have been in the public life for decades. Take Helen Zille, for example. At 75, she is an—I will put it in brackets—\"experienced\" political figure, and she has every constitutional right to contest elections."},{"start":20694,"end":20725,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But perhaps Johannesburg should be asking a simple question: What new chapter is actually being offered, and what lessons have been learned from the old ones? Experience should not automatically become a substitute for accountability. And when the DA points to its Western Cape record as a model, we must also be willing to examine the record critically."},{"start":20725,"end":20756,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"On the 2nd of July 2026, the Constitutional Court delivered a significant judgment concerning the Western Cape government and the City of Cape Town, which are both administered by the Democratic Alliance. And the court held that the DA-led Western Cape government was approving spatial apartheid frameworks."},{"start":20756,"end":20770,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So are these the things that we want to see Johannesburg under? A city where housing is not affordable to its residents. Madam Speaker,"},{"start":20770,"end":20772,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"angifuni ukuba mude kakhulu,"},{"start":20772,"end":20801,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but the judgment is particularly important because it reminds us that apartheid spatial planning is not merely history written in textbooks. Its consequences remain visible in where people live, where they work, and whether working-class and poor residents can access well-located parts of their city. So when political parties speak about governance models, let us also examine whether"},{"start":20801,"end":20831,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"those models are genuinely transforming the spatial and economic inequalities inherited from apartheid. Madam Speaker, the report before us identifies similar principles at an institutional level: representation, equality, inclusion, accountability, and transformation. The risks identified include inconsistent application of employment equity requirements,"},{"start":20831,"end":20861,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"disability representation, and fragmented accountability. A framework seeks to address these through stronger governance, standardized targets, monitoring, and reporting. Importantly, the report states that there are no direct additional financial implications arising solely from the approval of the framework, with implementation taking place through approved departmental and Group"},{"start":20861,"end":20891,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Human Capital Management programs and budgets. Madam Speaker and fellow councillors, our responsibility today is not simply to approve another policy document; it's to ensure that what we approve is implemented. The recommendations before council are to rescind the 2014 council resolution, approve the Revised Employment Equity Policy Framework and supporting SOPs,"},{"start":20891,"end":20923,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and authorize the necessary implementation, monitoring, and reporting arrangements. Honourable Speaker, as we approach the end of the term, I want to congratulate all the ANC councillor candidates who have been entrusted with the responsibility of representing their community. To every ANC candidate, congratulations on being given the opportunity to serve. The responsibility now is to engage residents,"},{"start":20923,"end":20954,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"present programs that earn their confidence. To those of us concluding this term, let us remember that public office is temporary, but the responsibility to serve is much bigger than any individual councillor. And to all the ANC councillor candidates, I wish you strength, discipline, and success as you take the message of the movement to the communities across Johannesburg. Madam Speaker,"},{"start":20954,"end":20960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I support Item 8 and recommendations before council."},{"start":20960,"end":20969,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngokusho kanjalo, Speaker, uyagcina namhlanje ukubiza uKhansela Nduduzo Mzolo. Ngokusho kanjalo, siyabonga."},{"start":20969,"end":20981,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mzolo. MMC Zungu."},{"start":20981,"end":21010,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to yourself, greetings to the Executive Mayor, Deputy Executive Mayor, fellow MMCs, Chief Whip of Council, Councillor Chauke, Chair of Chairs, and councillors present, and obviously the guests of the City of Johannesburg. Speaker, I have noted all the comments from different speakers, and indeed they have picked up"},{"start":21010,"end":21042,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"what they would have wanted to deposit. But Speaker, the purpose of this report is to seek council's approval of the Revised Group Employment Equity Policy Framework and supporting standard operating procedures to strengthen employment equity governance, legislative compliance, and transformation across the City of Johannesburg group. Madam Speaker, the existing Employment Equity Policy was approved in 2014 and no longer adequately reflects amendments to the Employment Equity Act,"},{"start":21042,"end":21074,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the 2025 Employment Equity Regulations, and sector targets. The revised framework has therefore been developed to align the city's employment practices with current legislative requirements and establish a single, coherent governance framework for employment equity implementation across the city departments and municipal entities. Madam Speaker, the revised framework seeks to strengthen compliance with national employment equity legislation and regulatory requirements,"},{"start":21074,"end":21105,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"advance transformation and equitable representation across all occupational levels, improve gender parity, particularly at top and senior management levels, enhance the recruitment, development, accommodation, and retention of persons with disabilities, standardize employment equity target setting, monitoring, reporting, and accountability across the city group, address employment practices that may undermine transformation objectives,"},{"start":21105,"end":21137,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"including prolonged acting appointments and inconsistent recruitment deviations, promote diversity and inclusion, succession planning, and accelerated development of designated groups. Further to that, Speaker, the framework was developed through a comprehensive consultation and benchmarking process involving organized labor, employee representatives, municipal entities, and employment equity structures. Benchmarking was undertaken with the cities of Tshwane,"},{"start":21137,"end":21168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Cape Town, Ekurhuleni, and eThekwini to identify best practices and to strengthen the city's approach. Therefore, Madam Speaker, approval of the revised framework will provide the city with a contemporary, auditable, and legally compliant employment equity governance instrument that establishes clear accountability, strengthens monitoring and reporting, enables consistent implementation across the city group,"},{"start":21168,"end":21206,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and supports the achievement of employment equity, disability, and gender transformation objectives. Conversely, a failure to approve the framework may expose the city to legislative, audit, governance, and reputational risks associated with reliance on an outdated policy framework. Therefore, Speaker, I then would implore our colleagues, Speaker, to approve this report. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":21206,"end":21216,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, MMC. The recommendations are on page 8.9. So let's do the exercise. ACDP?"},{"start":21216,"end":21220,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We abstain, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21220,"end":21223,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":21223,"end":21231,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, with the contempt it deserves. Thank you."},{"start":21231,"end":21234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"APC?"},{"start":21234,"end":21235,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Akekho."},{"start":21235,"end":21243,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":21243,"end":21246,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":21246,"end":21249,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":21249,"end":21251,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":21251,"end":21254,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":21254,"end":21266,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh, abstain, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21266,"end":21274,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":21274,"end":21277,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":21277,"end":21279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Nina sizoqhubeka sibuke inkulu..."},{"start":21279,"end":21281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21281,"end":21283,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Yebo, Speaker."},{"start":21283,"end":21285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is that Al Jama-ah, ne?"},{"start":21285,"end":21286,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":21286,"end":21286,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":21286,"end":21288,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Yebo."},{"start":21288,"end":21291,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":21291,"end":21295,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":21295,"end":21297,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":21297,"end":21299,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":21299,"end":21304,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC agrees to this item, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":21304,"end":21305,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":21305,"end":21308,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":21308,"end":21310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":21310,"end":21313,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21313,"end":21315,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":21315,"end":21317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we agree, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21317,"end":21322,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":21322,"end":21324,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agreed, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21324,"end":21328,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":21328,"end":21330,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21330,"end":21333,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":21333,"end":21335,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21335,"end":21337,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":21337,"end":21340,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":21340,"end":21365,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. So it's only APC that has not responded. Freedom Front Plus, no. And ACDP, UIM abstained. It's carried because most of the parties said yes. Can we go to the next item?"},{"start":21365,"end":21381,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 10 is a Group Strategic Supply Chain Management Acquisition Status Report reflecting bids considered and approved by the Accounting Officer for the period of 1st April 2026 to the 30th of June 2026."},{"start":21381,"end":21389,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":21389,"end":21392,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can someone help him to unmute?"},{"start":21392,"end":21394,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item noted."},{"start":21394,"end":21400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Councillor N. Pietersen, DA."},{"start":21400,"end":21432,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. I do rise virtually to speak on the Acquisition Status Report reflecting bids considered and approved by the Accounting Officer for between April and June 2026. Speaker, colleagues, when council receives an SCM acquisition report, we expect a document that empowers oversight, not one that merely records activity. Oversight is not a ceremonial function; it is a constitutional duty,"},{"start":21432,"end":21463,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and it cannot be exercised when the information placed before us is incomplete, superficial, or silent on the very checks that determine whether procurement was lawful. This quarter's report once again reflects a pattern we have seen too often: a list of awards without the evidence that proves compliance. It tells us what happened, but not whether it happened within the law. And that gap is not academic; it is material. Speaker, the MFMA is clear. Compliance is not a matter of interpretation or opinion;"},{"start":21463,"end":21494,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"it is a legal standard, and that standard requires positive verification, not assumptions. Yet the report before us gives council supplier names, award amounts, B-BBEE levels, and CIPC numbers, but it does not give council information that actually matters for MFMA compliance. This is the recurring weakness in our SCM reporting: we are given activity, not assurance. The CSD is the backbone of compliance, and it is missing."},{"start":21494,"end":21526,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"National Treasury and COGTA do not certify suppliers as MFMA compliant; they only publish lists of suppliers who are prohibited or restricted. This means the responsibility for confirming compliance lies entirely with the municipality, and the only authoritative tool for doing so is the Central Supplier Database. The CSD verifies SARS tax compliance, bank account legitimacy, director identity, government employment conflicts,"},{"start":21526,"end":21560,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"CIDB grading—remember this one, because it is coming up again in Item 12—and whether a supplier is restricted. None of this appears in the report. Speaker, without CSD verification, council cannot confirm that a single award in this report meets MFMA requirements, and that is unacceptable. The suppliers referenced—Geospace International, Reabetswe Comm and Events, and Mema Tech Trading—do not appear on Treasury's restricted supplier list."},{"start":21560,"end":21591,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"They do not appear in COGTA's irregular supplier advisories. They are not prohibited, but that does not mean they are compliant. Compliance requires evidence, compliance requires documentation, and it requires verification. The MFMA does not allow us to infer compliance from silence. Speaker, meaningful oversight requires meaningful information. This report fails to provide: number one, CSD supplier registration summaries,"},{"start":21591,"end":21600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the only authoritative compliance evidence, not included. Number two, SARS tax compliance status, otherwise we..."},{"start":21600,"end":21631,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"TCS pin, the TCS pin. VAT numbers are listed, but VAT registration is not tax compliance, not included. Speaker, colleagues, a key part of lawful procurement is confirming that every supplier meets their tax obligations. And for that, the city must rely on the SARS tax compliance status pin. The TCS pin gives us a real-time view of a supplier's standing with SARS and is the only recognized method for verifying tax compliance under the MFMA."},{"start":21631,"end":21660,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It replaces outdated certificates and ensures that the information we rely on is current, accurate, and issued directly by SARS. Without a verified TCS pin, the city cannot thus demonstrate that a supplier was eligible for award at the time of the contract was issued. This is not a technical detail. It is a core safeguard that protects Johannesburg from irregular expenditure and ensures that public money is spent only on suppliers who meet the legal requirements set out for doing business with the state."},{"start":21660,"end":21688,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Number three, conflict of interest declarations. We must know whether any director is a municipal official, councillor, or linked to another bidding entity, not included. Number four, BBBEE certificate validity and sector alignment. Levels are listed, but validity is not confirmed, not included. Number five, sector-specific compliance checks. For industrial or safety-sensitive contracts,"},{"start":21688,"end":21715,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a HASA compliance must be verified, not included. Speaker, without these checks, council cannot confirm legality, cannot assess risk, and cannot protect the city from irregular expenditure, which is the real reason we sit in council. We have to raise the standard of SCM reporting. The city cannot continue producing reports that give council half the picture. Oversight is not possible when information is incomplete,"},{"start":21715,"end":21740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and accountability is not possible when compliance is assumed rather than proven. Our SCM reporting must evolve. It must become professional, evidence-based, and aligned with the MFMA. We must insist on reports that are complete, verifiable, transparent, and useful. Oversight is not strengthened by volume. It is strengthened by quality. What must change immediately?"},{"start":21740,"end":21772,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I propose that future SCM acquisition reports include CSD supplier registration summaries for every awarded supplier, SARS TCS pin verification results, conflict of interest declaration outcomes, confirmation of BBBEE status, certificate validity, and sector alignment, sector-specific compliance checks where applicable, and a clear statement saying all suppliers have been verified as MFMA compliant based on CSD and supporting documentation."},{"start":21772,"end":21803,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is not an unreasonable demand, and I will make this speech available to the executive should they need some notes. So, in closing, Speaker, oversight is only meaningful when the information before council is complete, accurate, and capable of supporting lawful decision-making. We cannot continue receiving reports that tell us what was done, but not whether it was done correctly. Johannesburg deserves procurement that is transparent, defensible, and compliant, not procurement that leaves council guessing."},{"start":21803,"end":21823,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let us raise the standard. Let us insist on evidence. Let us restore confidence in the city's procurement systems. Residents and businesses deserve an administration they can believe in, and this will happen when the good citizens of Johannesburg vote for the Democratic Alliance on both ballots on the 4th of November. I thank you."},{"start":21823,"end":21841,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Pietersen. EFF Councillor Nethamba hasn't been here for three items. Let's go to ANC, Councillor Nofemela."},{"start":21841,"end":21872,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker, and greetings to you, all protocols observed. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak on Item 10. Uh this report is important because supply chain management is not merely an administrative process. It is one of the mechanisms through which the city converts its budget into actual goods, services, and ultimately service delivery to our residents. The report provides council"},{"start":21872,"end":21902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with an opportunity to exercise its oversight over procurement processes and to ensure that public resources are utilized in accordance with the applicable legislative and policy framework. The report confirms that Group Finance and Group Legal and Contracts were consulted in its preparation, and that the report is presented to council as part of our oversight. Uh however, Madam Speaker,"},{"start":21902,"end":21932,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"our responsibility as council does not end when a contract is awarded, but must also extend to asking whether the city ultimately receives the value that it paid for. Madam Speaker, the report also provides that BBBEE information for the awarded service providers. This is important because procurement must contribute not only to the acquisition of goods, services, and services,"},{"start":21932,"end":21960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but also to broader economic participation. Where the city spends public money, we should be able to demonstrate how the expenditure contributes to economic opportunities, particularly for emerging businesses and historically disadvantaged enterprises. Another important area is the use of established panels, as panels can provide the city with an efficient procurement mechanism"},{"start":21960,"end":21990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"if properly constituted and managed. We therefore recommend that quarterly SCM reports to include the total value of procurement through panels, the departments utilizing them, and the relevant categories of expenditure. This will strengthen transparency and allow council to monitor the extent to which different procurement mechanisms are being utilized. We must also acknowledge that the report confirms that"},{"start":21990,"end":22021,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the procurement processes were subjected to the relevant adjudication structures and that budget provisions were available. This provides an important foundation for proper financial governance. Madam Speaker, the recommendation before council is essentially to note the report and ensure its publication for public access. We support the principle of transparency, and our oversight must become increasingly focused on value for money"},{"start":22021,"end":22028,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and measurable outcomes. As the ANC, we note the report, and I thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":22028,"end":22048,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nofemela. Um MMC Masuku."},{"start":22048,"end":22075,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Masuku. Can we get an MMC to close the item?"},{"start":22075,"end":22103,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Zungu. MMC Mnisi. Executive Mayor. MMC Mabaso."},{"start":22103,"end":22114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sekwaila. Kunene. Makhafola."},{"start":22114,"end":22119,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um thank you, Speaker. Yes, it was me."},{"start":22119,"end":22121,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Makhafola."},{"start":22121,"end":22125,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":22125,"end":22129,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We need an executive member to note the report."},{"start":22129,"end":22135,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, I'm raising my hand, Speaker, to note the report. Thank you. Thanks."},{"start":22135,"end":22144,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Can we start with our counting again? ACDP?"},{"start":22144,"end":22146,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":22146,"end":22148,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And you are three?"},{"start":22148,"end":22150,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are three, Madam Speaker."},{"start":22150,"end":22152,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Definitely."},{"start":22152,"end":22162,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh who's now answering? So, I'm talking to the ACDP. You are three, neh?"},{"start":22162,"end":22163,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That's right."},{"start":22163,"end":22168,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":22168,"end":22171,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are four. No, Madam Speaker, no."},{"start":22171,"end":22176,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Four. APC has not been here. GOOD, are you still one?"},{"start":22176,"end":22178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, I'm still one."},{"start":22178,"end":22183,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UDM? And what are you saying, yes?"},{"start":22183,"end":22185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":22185,"end":22188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UDM?"},{"start":22188,"end":22190,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"xh","text":"Siyavuma."},{"start":22190,"end":22193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UIM?"},{"start":22193,"end":22198,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, Madam Speaker, yes, and it's just the one and only me."},{"start":22198,"end":22208,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":22208,"end":22210,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":22210,"end":22215,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you three still, or are you two, are you one?"},{"start":22215,"end":22218,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I'm uh I know I'm on."},{"start":22218,"end":22219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Yizwa izwi lokuthiwa"},{"start":22219,"end":22221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are three, Speaker."},{"start":22221,"end":22225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are three, right. COPE?"},{"start":22225,"end":22227,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":22227,"end":22232,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right. AHC?"},{"start":22232,"end":22234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":22234,"end":22241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Those that are interrupting, please stop it. AIC?"},{"start":22241,"end":22244,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we are still two. Thank you."},{"start":22244,"end":22248,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And are you And your And your take on the item?"},{"start":22248,"end":22251,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The item on uh the take on the item is yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":22251,"end":22255,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":22255,"end":22258,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we are still six, and it's yes."},{"start":22258,"end":22262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. PA?"},{"start":22262,"end":22268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we are still 11, but MMC is on another call, um and it's yes. Thank you."},{"start":22268,"end":22273,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. EFF?"},{"start":22273,"end":22276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, yes, Madam Speaker, we are still here."},{"start":22276,"end":22278,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"How many are you?"},{"start":22278,"end":22280,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"18."},{"start":22280,"end":22285,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So you have you have got gone less. ActionSA?"},{"start":22285,"end":22288,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Speaker. We're 25."},{"start":22288,"end":22290,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are 25?"},{"start":22290,"end":22291,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":22291,"end":22293,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. DA?"},{"start":22293,"end":22300,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no for us, Speaker, and I'm confirming, but I think we're still 59."},{"start":22300,"end":22304,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ANC?"},{"start":22304,"end":22313,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh it's a yes, Madam Speaker. I'm just confirming how many are we, but uh uh councillors from Alexandra have joined. Thank you."},{"start":22313,"end":22316,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I want to know how many you are."},{"start":22316,"end":22316,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm checking"},{"start":22316,"end":22321,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Because I don't want to be I don't want to be accused that we are not quorating."},{"start":22321,"end":22329,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh MMC uh Masuku and MMC Sekwaila, they are in the meeting, uh uh Madam Speaker, but I'm still checking."},{"start":22329,"end":22357,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, because you were 70 in the morning. Okay. So we have uh We have two that abstained, am I right? And they said no. Okay. So the rest of us said yes. Well, no, not me, I'm this side. So the parties all said yes, and it's only the two that said no. Thank you. Can we go to the next item? The item is carried."},{"start":22357,"end":22367,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And I want those numbers from you, um ANC and DA. Okay."},{"start":22367,"end":22386,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh we are on Item 11, and that's the Group Strategic Supply Chain Management deviation, ratification, transversal, and organ of the organ of the state's procurement reports that were considered and approved by the Accounting Officer for the period April 2026 to June 2026."},{"start":22386,"end":22390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor N. Pietersen from the DA."},{"start":22390,"end":22422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Honorable Speaker, members of council. I rise to address Item 11, which reports on the City of Johannesburg's procurement deviations, contract extensions, and the use of transversal contracts. Let me begin by acknowledging the positive steps taken in this period. There were zero deviations and zero contract amendments under Section 116, and only one procurement item from another organ of state. Does this mean that the bucket has stopped leaking, or does it indicate that there is no water in the bucket?"},{"start":22422,"end":22453,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I have a feeling it may be the latter. Moving on, I wish to focus on the two transversal contracts approved for Environment and Infrastructure Services Department, specifically for repairs, maintenance, and commissioning of air quality monitoring equipment and stations. These contracts, valued at over 7.9 million rand, are directly linked to the implementation of the city's Clean Air Zone policy as outlined in Item 18 tabled here at well, tabled in um August last month."},{"start":22453,"end":22486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The need for services, Clean Air policy. There is no doubt that the services being procured are essential. The Clean Air Zone policy is a flagship initiative to improve air quality, protect public health, and ensure Johannesburg meets both national and international air quality standards. The baseline assessment on Item 18 in August confirms that air pollution remains a significant challenge, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. The deployment and maintenance of air quality monitoring infrastructure is therefore not just justified,"},{"start":22486,"end":22517,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but urgent and necessary. Questioning, however, the need for these services is clear. I must question why the city has chosen to procure them through a national transversal contract. According to my case study on SCM oversight, one of the persistent challenges in our supply chain management is the lack of transparency and effective oversight, particularly when procurement processes are centralized or removed from direct council scrutiny. Transversal contracts,"},{"start":22517,"end":22550,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"while offering a um potential efficiencies and economies of scale, can also obscure local accountability and reduce the ability of council to ensure that procurement aligns with our specific needs and priorities. We only need to look at the recent findings of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee, as detailed in Item 29 of August, to understand the risks. The transversal contract used for Afrirent, together with Avis, resulted in over 1.6 billion rand in irregular expenditure."},{"start":22550,"end":22579,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The MPAC investigation found that the use of transversal contracts under MFMA Section 36, Regulation 36, led to significant breaches of procurement regulations. The committee has now recommended disciplinary action against officials involved and possible criminal investigations. This case demonstrates that transversal contracts, if not properly overseen, can result in massive financial losses, undermine public trust, and expose the city to legal and reputational risks."},{"start":22579,"end":22611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"My case study from 2023 reinforces this point, highlighting that the current system often allows the consequences of poorly awarded contracts to surface only years later, by which time officials may have left the municipality and recovery of funds becomes difficult or impossible. The Afrirent case is a stark reminder that the use of transversal contracts must be accompanied by robust oversight, transparency, and clear justification. The case study recommends that council should have a more active role in observing"},{"start":22611,"end":22642,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"SCM processes, not to interfere, but to ensure transparency and accountability. When transversal contracts are used, it is even more critical that council is provided with clear justifications. So why was a transversal contract chosen over local procurement processes? We don't know. How does this approach ensure value for money, quality, and alignment with the city's unique requirements? This is not specified. What mechanisms are in place to monitor performance"},{"start":22642,"end":22673,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and address any issues that arise during the contract period? We will only find that later, in years to come. My conclusion and recommendations: that while I support the urgent need to implement the Clean Air Zone policy and the associated procurement of air quality monitoring infrastructure, I urge that the administration to provide council with a detailed rationale for the use of transversal contracts in this context. Let us ensure that our commitment to good governance, financial sustainability,"},{"start":22673,"end":22695,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and service delivery is matched by a commitment to transparency, oversight, and public value. Let us learn from the Afrirent experience and ensure that every procurement decision is subject to the highest standards of accountability and scrutiny. After the 4th of November, the residents and businesses who believe in Johannesburg can be assured of a government that will put simple, user-friendly systems in place that will improve SCM oversight and accessible to public scrutiny."},{"start":22695,"end":22700,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Thula! Abantu bogajdla nina."},{"start":22700,"end":22702,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, can you just hold on?"},{"start":22702,"end":22704,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, can I be protected?"},{"start":22704,"end":22716,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that? No, guys, don't do that, please, councillors. No, don't do that. Councillor Pietersen, carry on."},{"start":22716,"end":22735,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So I repeat, after the 4th of November, the residents and businesses who believe in Johannesburg can be assured of a government that will put simple, user-friendly systems in place that will improve SCM oversight and accessibility to public scrutiny. I thank you."},{"start":22735,"end":22745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Pietersen. Councillor S. Zitha."},{"start":22745,"end":22748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Akekho."},{"start":22748,"end":22753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Nofemela."},{"start":22753,"end":22784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker, and all protocols observed. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak on Item 11. Um Madam Speaker, um the report dealing with deviations, ratifications, and procurement through other organs of state and transversal contracts for the period of April to June 2026. This is an important report because procurement outside the ordinary"},{"start":22784,"end":22816,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"competitive process requires particularly strong oversight. The report records zero deviations and zero Section 116 contract amendments during the reporting period. It also records procurement involving other organs of state and National Treasury transversal arrangements. The absence of reported deviations during the quarter provides council with an important compliance indicator. However, Madam Speaker, our responsibility is to understand"},{"start":22816,"end":22850,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the circumstances surrounding alternative procurement mechanisms and ensure that they continue to deliver value for the city. One of the most significant transaction contained in the report is the appointment of the Wits School of Governance through the provision of Section 110(2) uh subparagraph (a) of the MFMA to facilitate the municipal financial management training. The value reported is 11.5 million,"},{"start":22850,"end":22882,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with approval dated 16 April 2026. Madam Speaker, this is a substantial investment in institutional capacity, and because it is an it is an investment in financial management, it is directly relevant to the city's ability to improve financial sustainability and governance. Our question should be, therefore, what will the city receive from this investment? The report records zero deviations during the quarter."},{"start":22882,"end":22915,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is an important figure and should be acknowledged, as it indicates that for the period under review, no deviations were reported through the through this particular reporting mechanism. At the same time, we should continue strengthening preventative controls. The objective should be to ensure that departments plan sufficiently ahead so that the emergency or exceptional procurement is genuinely reserved for circumstances contemplated by the applicable framework."},{"start":22915,"end":22946,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is particularly important where contracts are approaching expiry. Good procurement planning is one of the most effective ways to reduce the pressure that can result in departments seeking alternative procurement mechanisms. The report also deals with procurement through transversal uh contracts. These arrangements can provide municipalities with access to established procurement frameworks and may improve efficiency where appropriate. However, council should continue to receive"},{"start":22946,"end":22978,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"sufficient information to establish whether the purpose of each uh to establish the purpose of each contract, the value of expenditure, the period involved, the service obtained, and the and the benefits of the municipality. This is particularly important because the ultimate objective is not simply compliance with the procurement mechanism. It is effective utilization of resources. Madam Speaker, as the ANC, we are noting this report. Thank you."},{"start":22978,"end":22988,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nofemela. MMC Masuku. I believe you are here."},{"start":22988,"end":23019,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Uh I think Councillor Nofemela's comments make um absolute sense in the sense that zero deviations is an indication of uh a uh administration that is committed to ensuring that we follow due process. And of course, where we cannot, the law allows us to use uh certain instruments um of the Municipal Finance Management Act. So we ask council"},{"start":23019,"end":23040,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to note this report. This report is for noting. Uh and it is a demonstration of our transparency as the Government of Local Unity, under a ANC-led Government of Local Unity, because we are transparent in everything that we do. That is why we bring these reports to council for noting and information. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":23040,"end":23051,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, MMC. Recommendations on page 11.3. We are now going to do our exercise. ACDP?"},{"start":23051,"end":23052,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":23052,"end":23056,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":23056,"end":23059,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker, no."},{"start":23059,"end":23061,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":23061,"end":23063,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23063,"end":23066,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":23066,"end":23068,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":23068,"end":23069,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":23069,"end":23071,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23071,"end":23079,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM? Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":23079,"end":23081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker. Yes, Speaker."},{"start":23081,"end":23084,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, ATM. Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":23084,"end":23086,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":23086,"end":23089,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":23089,"end":23091,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, thank you."},{"start":23091,"end":23095,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":23095,"end":23097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23097,"end":23100,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":23100,"end":23102,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23102,"end":23105,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":23105,"end":23108,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":23108,"end":23110,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":23110,"end":23112,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23112,"end":23115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":23115,"end":23116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23116,"end":23122,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":23122,"end":23125,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We note the report, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":23125,"end":23127,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":23127,"end":23130,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted the report. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":23130,"end":23132,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":23132,"end":23135,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":23135,"end":23150,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, the item is carried with only two that said no. Thank you. SPC."},{"start":23150,"end":23163,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh we're now on Item 12, and that is Group Strategic Supply Chain Management Operational Status Report for the period 1st April 2026 to 30th June 2026."},{"start":23163,"end":23169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Pietersen from the DA."},{"start":23169,"end":23200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Um Supply chain management sits at the center of how a municipality delivers services, builds infrastructure, and protects public money. Every contract, every project, every rand spent by the city moves through this system. When SCM is strong, the city can plan, procure, and execute with confidence. When reporting is thin or incomplete, the council cannot see what is happening inside the engine room of municipal delivery."},{"start":23200,"end":23232,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That is why SCM oversight matters. It gives council the visibility needed to ensure that procurement is lawful, transparent, and aligned to the needs of Johannesburg's residents. Without clear, detailed reporting, oversight becomes guesswork, and the city cannot afford guesswork in its procurement environment. As we turn to Item 12, I must again raise a concern that has become impossible to ignore. Quarter after quarter, this council receives an SCM operational status report with a blank Annexure D,"},{"start":23232,"end":23264,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the section that should reflect our compliance with the Construction Industry Development Board's Register of Projects. And once again, we are told that no construction bids were advertised on the CIDB website because there were no construction-related bids, quote-unquote. Speaker, this line has become a ritual. It has appeared so often that it now reads less like a factual statement and more like a reflex. But oversight cannot be built on reflex. Oversight requires evidence. Oversight requires transparency."},{"start":23264,"end":23296,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oversight requires reporting that actually tells council what is happening in the city's construction portfolio, and this report does not do that, in spite of what our executive wants to reassure us. CIDB compliance is not optional; it is the law. The CIDB Act is unambiguous: every qualifying public sector construction project must be registered on the national Register of Projects before work begins. The RoP, Register of Projects,"},{"start":23296,"end":23329,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"is not a bureaucratic formality. It is a national transparency tool. It is the mechanism that tells the country what is being built, by whom, for how much, and under which grading. It is a mechanism the Auditor-General uses to verify that municipalities are awarding construction work lawfully. When Annexure D is blank, it does not mean compliance; it means the city has provided no evidence of compliance, and that is the problem. We are seeing compliance language, not compliance practice. Speaker, this pattern has now stretched across multiple quarters:"},{"start":23329,"end":23360,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Q2, Q3, and now Q4. The same line, the same blank annexure, the same absence of detail. And yet the report assures us that all processes adhere to the MFMA, SCM regulations, and city policy. But compliance is not a slogan. Compliance is not a paragraph in a report. Compliance is demonstrated through documentation, verification, and reporting. And on CIDB, we are not seeing that. This is not a minor administrative gap; it is a systemic failure."},{"start":23360,"end":23390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The risks are real and serious. When CIDB reporting disappears, blind spots appear, and blind spots in construction procurement are dangerous. In other words, ghost projects become possible. Unregistered site handovers can occur without detection. Awards to unqualified contractors slip through the cracks. Irregular expenditure becomes likely. Audit findings become inevitable. Public trust erodes because there is no visible audit trail for infrastructure spending."},{"start":23390,"end":23400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Johannesburg cannot afford blind spots in construction procurement, not now, not ever. We must remove move from blank pages to"},{"start":23400,"end":23424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Real accountability. To restore credibility and lawful procurement, I propose the following. Number one, immediate CIDB compliance. Every qualifying construction project must be registered on the CIDB register of projects before site handover. No exceptions, no delays. Number two, transparent reporting,"},{"start":23424,"end":23451,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"which our MMC has assured us is happening. On the contrary, Annexure D must never be blank. If there are no new projects, the report must list ongoing projects, their status, any changes in value, and any contractor updates. The city should publish its CIDB register online for public access. Consequence management. Repeated non-compliance cannot continue without accountability."},{"start":23451,"end":23479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Officials responsible for CIDB failures must face disciplinary action as required by the MFMA and CIDB Act. A Group Audit Committee must review CIDB compliance quarterly and report directly to Council. Number four, capacity building. SCM and project management officials must receive training on CIDB requirements and the proper use of the register of projects. Compliance cannot be achieved if officials do not understand the system."},{"start":23479,"end":23505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Before I conclude, I want to tell this chamber about something that happened on or around, um, oh, sorry, I struck that. Conclusion. Oversight requires visibility. Speaker, the message is straightforward. Council cannot fulfill its oversight mandate when critical reporting tools like the CIDB register of projects are left unused. The city's construction portfolio must be visible, traceable, and properly documented."},{"start":23505,"end":23533,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Blank annexures and repeated explanations do not give council the assurance it needs to protect public funds or to monitor the progress of infrastructure delivery. Johannesburg's residents expect us to keep a close eye on how construction work is planned, awarded, and executed. That requires complete reporting, consistent compliance, and a commitment to closing the gaps that have become routine in the space. Strengthening CIDB reporting is not an administrative exercise. It is a necessary"},{"start":23533,"end":23562,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"step towards restoring confidence in the city's procurement systems and ensuring that every project is accounted for from beginning to end. Johannesburg deserves better. It deserves a supply chain system that is transparent, accountable, and compliant in practice, not just in language. The DA stands ready to support the reforms needed to close these gaps and restore confidence in the city's procurement processes. The DA cannot support this incomplete item. I thank you."},{"start":23562,"end":23578,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Pietersen. I take it for granted Councillor Zitha is not here. Councillor Nofemela."},{"start":23578,"end":23606,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, this is an important report because it provides council with a broader picture of how the city's supply chain system is functioning. The report covers direct purchases, store purchases, stock, stores and inventory management, bids, contracts and contract renewals. Madam Speaker, one of the most significant figures in this report is the value"},{"start":23606,"end":23634,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of direct purchases. For the fourth quarter, direct purchases amounted to approximately 577.16 million, while the year-to-date figure was approximately 9.078 billion. These figures demonstrate the scale of procurement undertaken by the city. At this level of expenditure, strong procurement controls are essential. But equally important is"},{"start":23634,"end":23664,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ensuring that procurement expenditure translates into the goods and services required by departments to deliver services to the residents. Madam Speaker, another important area is the city's inventory. As at 30 June 2026, the total value of stock held across the city's stores was approximately 101.84 million. During the quarter,"},{"start":23664,"end":23693,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"124,645 items were issued, valued at approximately 16.31 million. 33,950 items were received, valued at approximately 6.24 million. This demonstrates significant movement through the city's stores. However, the report also identifies an area requiring"},{"start":23693,"end":23722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"continued attention. Approximately 26.216 million of stock was marked for deletion and referred to Group Forensic Investigation Services for further investigation and determination of the appropriate way forward, including possible write-off. The report further indicates that the value of stock was provisionally written down to approximately"},{"start":23722,"end":23753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"75.626 million. Madam Speaker, this is an important matter for oversight. We need to understand the nature of the stock involved. Is it obsolete? Is it surplus? Is it damaged? Is it no longer required? Or does it relate to another category requiring investigation? The answer is important because each category requires a different management response."},{"start":23753,"end":23782,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We therefore recommend that the future reports provide council with a more detailed analysis of stock marked for deletion. This should include the age of the stock, category of stock, reason for deletion, department responsible, original acquisition value, current carrying value, investigation status, and final disposal or write-off outcome. This will allow council to determine whether the issue is isolated or whether there are recurring"},{"start":23782,"end":23812,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"weaknesses in stock planning and inventory management. Madam Speaker, the report identifies 21 contracts and established panels due to expire between 1st July 2026 and 30 June 2027. This is a very important forward planning issue. The report itself indicates that the departments are reminded to begin renewal processes in time, partly to avoid the need for deviations from normal procurement"},{"start":23812,"end":23842,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"processes. This should be supported. Contract management must be proactive rather than reactive. Where a critical contract is approaching expiry, the renewal or replacement process should begin sufficiently early to avoid interruptions in service delivery. We therefore recommend that the future reports include a contract expiry dashboard showing contracts expiring within three months, contracts expiring within six months, procurement processes"},{"start":23842,"end":23871,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"commenced, tenders advertised, evaluation underway, awards completed, and contracts where intervention is required. This will allow council to identify potential procurement bottlenecks before they become service delivery problems. Madam Speaker, the report also records a canceled procurement relating to the repair and maintenance of fire and rescue equipment for emergency management"},{"start":23871,"end":23901,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"services. The report indicates that the cancellation related to issues concerning the pricing schedules and communication of an addendum to bidders. The report also identifies the potential service delivery implications, particularly for critical emergency response equipment. This is precisely where procurement and service delivery intersect. Our oversight question should therefore be what interim"},{"start":23901,"end":23930,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"measures are in place to ensure that EMS equipment remain operational while the procurement process is corrected. The objective must be to ensure that procurement compliance and service delivery are pursued together. We should never treat this as competing objectives. A compliant procurement process must ultimately support the city's ability to deliver services. Madam Speaker, SCM also"},{"start":23930,"end":23960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"provides an opportunity to support economic participation. The city's procurement expenditure should, wherever the applicable policy and legislation permit, create opportunities for emerging enterprises. The finance committee should therefore continue monitoring SMME participation, township suppliers, women-owned businesses, youth-owned businesses, local supplier participation,"},{"start":23960,"end":23975,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and supplier development opportunities. This information would allow council to assess the broader impact of municipal procurement. As the ANC, we note the report, Madam Speaker, and I thank you."},{"start":23975,"end":23993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Nofemela. MMC Finance, Councillor Masuku. Deputy Executive Mayor."},{"start":23993,"end":24000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Masuku."},{"start":24000,"end":24008,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. The comments are noted, Speaker. And we ask Council to please note the report. It's for noting."},{"start":24008,"end":24019,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, ma'am. Councillors, the recommendations are on page 12.4. We will now take the exercise quickly. ACDP."},{"start":24019,"end":24021,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, ma'am. Thank you."},{"start":24021,"end":24023,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":24025,"end":24029,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello."},{"start":24029,"end":24033,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":24033,"end":24034,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24034,"end":24036,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":24036,"end":24038,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24038,"end":24042,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":24042,"end":24044,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24044,"end":24046,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":24046,"end":24048,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24048,"end":24053,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":24053,"end":24055,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24055,"end":24061,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":24061,"end":24063,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24063,"end":24065,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":24065,"end":24068,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":24068,"end":24070,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":24073,"end":24075,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24075,"end":24089,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can those of you that are unmuted, and it's not your chance to speak, please close your mics. AHC, you responded, hey?"},{"start":24089,"end":24091,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24091,"end":24095,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. AIC."},{"start":24095,"end":24097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24097,"end":24100,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":24100,"end":24102,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24102,"end":24105,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":24105,"end":24107,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24107,"end":24109,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":24109,"end":24111,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24111,"end":24113,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":24113,"end":24115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24115,"end":24116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":24116,"end":24118,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24118,"end":24121,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":24121,"end":24123,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":24123,"end":24138,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. We move to the next one. We just have a few. If we go quick, quick through all of them, by 6, 6:30, we are out of where we are. Next item."},{"start":24138,"end":24145,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are now on item 14, and that's the background paper on financial sustainability in the city, oversight priorities."},{"start":24145,"end":24165,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Member in charge, Councillor Radebe. Finance Committee Chairperson."},{"start":24165,"end":24188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is he not here? Can we have someone from the Finance Committee to table for us the item?"},{"start":24188,"end":24194,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Must I, must I, must I, must I identify?"},{"start":24194,"end":24195,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":24195,"end":24198,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus, I see your hand is up."},{"start":24198,"end":24210,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, on behalf of Section 79 Committee, I table item number 14, the background paper on financial sustainability in the City of Johannesburg, oversight priorities. Thank you."},{"start":24210,"end":24221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. ACDP, Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":24221,"end":24224,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, this is Apple."},{"start":24224,"end":24230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid Boer, nou moet jy jouself in twee sny."},{"start":24230,"end":24234,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Mevrou die Speaker. Ja, ek sny myself in twee, dis nie 'n probleem nie. Um,"},{"start":24234,"end":24264,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm rising to speak on item 14, the background paper. Madam Speaker, this paper is absolutely a jewel. Our researcher did put a lot of work into this report, and this is exactly where the success of the city is dependent on. Absolute oversight on all the policies that are implemented by the city. The financial turnaround framework will not succeed unless we get"},{"start":24264,"end":24294,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"reports on a timeous basis and on a regular basis to see what is the progress of the implementation of the report. And I'm afraid to say under the current government of local unity, there is but absolutely no political will to make anything work in this city. As one example, we are presented today in council with two Section 71 reports for June and for July. Madam Speaker, we had our Finance Committee"},{"start":24294,"end":24326,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"meeting exactly two weeks ago on the 16th of November, uh, 16th of September, and those reports were not even presented to the committee to do oversight. This is only one example. We are withheld of information to fulfill our role, although there is knowledgeable people, a lot of knowledgeable people on the Section 79 that can support with this financial turnaround. It actually is getting"},{"start":24326,"end":24356,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"withheld from us. So this document really addresses those issues. And as long as we cannot do financial oversight, then there will be no success on the implementation of, and the monitoring of the turnaround strategy. There are no performance targets set for management to link to real performance. So the entities' management, the CEOs and all the senior staff members,"},{"start":24356,"end":24362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"are not getting monitored, and oversight is not getting done on them. And"},{"start":24362,"end":24364,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"50 sekondes."},{"start":24364,"end":24384,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"unless we change that, we are going to run into a problem because those entities, they act as they want, and they are not held responsible. So there must be consequence management to them as well. But the Freedom Front Plus notes this report. It is a wonderful report, and we approve all the recommendations. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24384,"end":24385,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie."},{"start":24385,"end":24391,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Santana from the DA."},{"start":24391,"end":24421,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak on item 14, the background paper, Financial Sustainability in the City of Johannesburg: Oversight Priorities. Madam Speaker, this report actually highlights the frustration that Group Finance Committee dealt with in this term. Not foregoing that we've had seven Finance Chairpersons, I think it's five MMCs of Finance, and yet this is a critical committee in the whole"},{"start":24421,"end":24452,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of the City of Johannesburg, tracking the spending and the revenue for the City of Johannesburg, and yet we have been continuously hampered by actually having meetings, having reports, and trying to deal with these issues. And although this report alludes to us wanting reports with regards to the turnaround strategy performance and implementation, and who's responsible, and consequence management on that, again, it's a request. And I doubt"},{"start":24452,"end":24482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"whether, unfortunately, whether we'd ever get these reports, although we will insist on them as a committee and as the Democratic Alliance. The biggest problem with all of the stuff, it also doesn't give us any targets, any deadlines, or any accountable officers with regards to the implementation of the turnaround strategies that are being passed through council. And I think that's where we need to start looking at is who is responsible, who's going to be accountable, what measures are going to be"},{"start":24482,"end":24512,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"put in place timeously to deal with corrective actions so that we're not waiting quarter and quarter and quarter for reports, which then become so distorted. I do believe that if we get reports, let's say, one for the first quarter to do a three-month on the quarter, an analysis, and if there are corrective measures, then we should be looking at reports that are coming monthly to Group Finance in order to assess whether any of those corrective actions have been implemented and who"},{"start":24512,"end":24543,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"is then accountable to ensure that those are implemented and the corrective action is actually taken. Again, this document highlights, as I've said, the downfall of what we've been experiencing as Group Finance, and I'm saying this as a collective for all of us in that committee. And as Councillor Boer alluded to, most of us are quite astute with the financial position of the City of Johannesburg, and we would like to see proper reports coming that we can scrutinize,"},{"start":24543,"end":24577,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ask for the relevant implementations, and ask for the relevant corrective actions, and have the necessary timelines and deadlines, and obviously, the relevant accountable officials, including those that are from the entities. So let's not even, if it means we have to have the Board of Directors to come and report to Finance, it must be done. Otherwise, we are just putting a document again where we're going to be frustrated, and we're not seeing the city moving forward as a collective. In that saying, Madam Speaker, we note the report because"},{"start":24577,"end":24590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I think it is for noting. I don't think there's much of approval on here, but it is for noting and obviously recommendation with regards to the reporting mechanisms that Group Finance would like to see. I thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24590,"end":24609,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Santana. Councillor Zitha is not here. Councillor Modupi."},{"start":24609,"end":24624,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Looks like almost Councillor Modupi is not here. MMC Masuku."},{"start":24624,"end":24635,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry, Speaker, I'm present. I'm struggling here with the network, but nevertheless, we, as the African National Congress, note the report."},{"start":24635,"end":24649,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Councillor, thank you. MMC Masuku."},{"start":24649,"end":24660,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Masuku."},{"start":24660,"end":24684,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Masuku. Can we, I can see her there. MMC Masuku. Can we have another MMC, please?"},{"start":24684,"end":24692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, MMC Mgcina notes the comments from fellow councillors. Thank you."},{"start":24692,"end":24696,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, MMC."},{"start":24696,"end":24700,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid Boer, kan jy toemaak?"},{"start":24700,"end":24702,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Mevrou die Speaker."},{"start":24702,"end":24717,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thanks for all the inputs from the councillors, especially Councillor Santana, and we request council to approve the recommendations as being set out on page 14.6. Thank you very much."},{"start":24717,"end":24720,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Baie dankie, Raadslid Boer."},{"start":24720,"end":24736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Recommendations, as noted by Councillor Boer, is on page 14.6. Let's go and see how we are faring. ACDP, you're still three?"},{"start":24736,"end":24740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we're still three, and we note the report. Thank you, Madam."},{"start":24740,"end":24743,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus, are you still four?"},{"start":24743,"end":24746,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, and we note the report, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24746,"end":24749,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD, are you still one? And you"},{"start":24749,"end":24752,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm still one. The report is noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24752,"end":24761,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM, are you still there? One?"},{"start":24761,"end":24766,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can't hear UDM. UIM, are you still one, and are you there? What are you saying?"},{"start":24766,"end":24769,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Noted."},{"start":24769,"end":24775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM, are you still one, and are you there? What are you saying?"},{"start":24775,"end":24783,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. We are all here. We are here. Thank you."},{"start":24783,"end":24797,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, you are all there. Al Jama-ah, are you still three, and what is your answer? You don't seem to be here."},{"start":24797,"end":24801,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are all here, and we are noting. Thank you."},{"start":24801,"end":24811,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE, are you still here? And what are you saying?"},{"start":24811,"end":24820,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, they all left or went for tea. AHC, are you here?"},{"start":24820,"end":24821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24821,"end":24827,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. AIC, are you still two, and are you here?"},{"start":24827,"end":24831,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 100% still here, and we are noting the report. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24831,"end":24835,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP, are you still six?"},{"start":24835,"end":24838,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we're still six, and we're noting the report."},{"start":24838,"end":24839,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":24839,"end":24842,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I'm still here."},{"start":24842,"end":24844,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Al Jama-ah."},{"start":24844,"end":24852,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, Al Jama-ah responded long ago. PA, are you still 11, and are you here?"},{"start":24852,"end":24855,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":24855,"end":24865,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF, are you still 18, and are you here?"},{"start":24865,"end":24871,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ActionSA, are you still 25, and are you here?"},{"start":24871,"end":24874,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, ActionSA notes the report."},{"start":24874,"end":24879,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA, are you still 59, and are you here?"},{"start":24879,"end":24884,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker, we're down to 56, and we note the report."},{"start":24884,"end":24890,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ANC, are you still 70? You're here, and are you noting?"},{"start":24890,"end":24896,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 69. We are noting the report, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":24896,"end":24917,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Danko. Let's move to the next item. So we still form a quorum. The item is carried. Hey, Peter, the hums. Yoh. Can we"},{"start":24917,"end":24947,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors, we're on item 15, and that's the Mixed Integrated Housing Development, Frankenwald District City, on Portion 5 and a Portion of 1 of the Farm Bergvallei 37-IR, coupled with the Bergvallei Mixed Housing Development on Remaining Extent and Remainder of Portion 1 and 31 of Bergvallei 37-IR, initiated by the Human Settlements Department and Johannesburg Property Company."},{"start":24947,"end":24956,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, STC. Councillor Rambani from the DA."},{"start":24956,"end":24990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, allow me to greet every councillor that is present at the moment. Speaker, in 2022, the framework was approved by council. That framework went into public participation, and then it was brought back to council for approval,"},{"start":24990,"end":25020,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with a clear guideline of how the development is going to happen between the Calgro and the City of Johannesburg. Currently, we are finding a report that the city wants to go into an arrangement in the Frankenwald development and spend the grants that are available for next"},{"start":25020,"end":25053,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"financial year, which is an amount of 2.9 billion rand and an amount of 2.4 billion rand. But what we are not getting, we are not getting a full disclosure as to what is it that Calgro is going to spend on the whole development. I have traveled to Frankenwald before, and I've seen that the development has been started already,"},{"start":25053,"end":25081,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and I do know that Calgro has been doing what is called a bulk infrastructure. Who has funded that bulk infrastructure? This report is not telling us. What kind of a bulk infrastructure is this funding going to go to? Because already, in that area, there's already bulk infrastructure that the developer is already putting there."},{"start":25081,"end":25112,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We really want to find a full disclosure, a full report detailing as to the amount of the bulk infrastructure that has already been installed, or the bulk infrastructure that is already installed at the moment, how much has it cost, and who paid for that bulk infrastructure? This kind of money which we are going to pay, I can see there is"},{"start":25112,"end":25142,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"what is called infrastructure development, which is stated there, electrical bulk link and also civil bulk link. But my question is, those infrastructure, if you go there, Calgro has already installed them. Where is this bulk infrastructure going to go to? Because already, they have already installed the bulk infrastructure in that area, and there is a"},{"start":25142,"end":25172,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"work that is going on in Frankenwald currently. With regard to the top structure, if I remember very well, the top structure was to be fully funded by the developer, which is Calgro. So in a nutshell, what I'm seeing in this report is that this report is in contravention with the framework that was approved by council in 2022."},{"start":25172,"end":25200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I will request that this report be withdrawn and be sent back and be brought back with a full disclosure as to how much is Calgro spending, whether all the town planning processes were followed and approved. We do not have that detail because in the last time, we found that the town planning processes were"},{"start":25200,"end":25225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"still under way. Currently, we do not know whether the town planning processes are already completed. Can this report be withdrawn? Otherwise, the Democratic Alliance will not approve this report as it is until we find the full information as to what is happening with this development. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":25225,"end":25248,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Rambani. Can we get Councillor T Nenemba, but I also noticed that he was not around earlier on. So, can we go to Councillor X Khumalo?"},{"start":25248,"end":25262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Khumalo from the ANC. Are you not here? Then can we go to, can we go to the MMC, MMC Mabaso?"},{"start":25262,"end":25268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, the African National Congress approve this report."},{"start":25268,"end":25270,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's speaking now?"},{"start":25270,"end":25271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Maluleka here."},{"start":25271,"end":25273,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much. Oh, my apologies."},{"start":25273,"end":25275,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Maluleka, thank you."},{"start":25275,"end":25277,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, yes."},{"start":25277,"end":25279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Mabaso."},{"start":25279,"end":25304,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to yourself, the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Executive Mayor, MMCs, all colleagues, the Whip of Council. Speaker, my signal has improved, Speaker, and I hope I'm audible."},{"start":25304,"end":25305,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are."},{"start":25305,"end":25331,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much. Speaker, I think let me begin by saying this is a private development. Calgro was appointed as a developer to develop this particular area."},{"start":25331,"end":25359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Calgro is funding the development. Currently all the work that is being done, all the civil work, the engineering work that is being done on the ground is funded by the developer. The City of Johannesburg, you know, we are seeking to enter into a partnership for the delivery of the BNG and social housing"},{"start":25359,"end":25386,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"so that we are able to provide houses for our residents in Region E, particularly the Alexandra and Marlboro. So, the funds that are presented in the report, Speaker, it's the funds that are meant to support"},{"start":25386,"end":25416,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the development and the delivery of the BNG and the social housing units. Now, if you go to the recommendations, Speaker, that's when you will then realise that what we seek in Council is for the City Manager to be authorised for the city to enter into negotiations with the developer for the purposes of entering into a partnership so that we deliver"},{"start":25416,"end":25444,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the houses for the residents of Alexandra and Marlboro. And as I've indicated, Speaker, that it's a private development. It's not our development. We are seeking partnership. Yes, there was a framework which was approved in 2022, but it does not take away the fact that the land does not belongs to us, any of the state, any of the organs of state. It's a privately owned land."},{"start":25444,"end":25473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Calgro has appointed by Vuts. We are entering into a partnership. They've already started working because it's not our development, it's privately owned. And they've invested more than 250 million, but it's not for us to report that in Council because it's not our money, it's not state funds, it's their own money that they are putting into the development. But the recommendations, Speaker, they are protecting the interest of Council."},{"start":25473,"end":25500,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Because if you look at recommendation one, for example, where it says Council guided by the laws of the country, then it goes further to say any potential development agreement negotiated resolution be referred back to Council for approval prior to signing where such agreements involves financial commitments. So, I think it's imperative, Speaker, when you"},{"start":25500,"end":25529,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"go through the report, you must also read the recommendations so that when you debate and engage in Council, at least it is also informed by what we seeks to approve as Council, because the body of the report, you know, as much as it provide more information on the funding that will be required and the processes that we are embarking on,"},{"start":25529,"end":25559,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but the recommendations are the one that guides us in terms of our negotiations, in terms of the contract that we want to enter into. So, all this information that Councillor Rambani is referring to really is not going to assist this Council because the interest of Council is protected if you go through all the recommendations that are being presented in Council, which are going to guide the City Manager in his negotiations with the developer, which is Calgro."},{"start":25559,"end":25591,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, Speaker, I will really request because anything that has financial implications in the future and this report does not say, you know, in the current financial year, this is the money that will be appropriated in the project, it doesn't say that. Recommendation two is very clear that a resolution that has financial commitments must then be submitted to Council for further approval. So, I will request that Council approve this report, Speaker, because"},{"start":25591,"end":25597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the developer actually wants this commitment from Council that we are going to enter into a partnership for their own financial"},{"start":25597,"end":25600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC, time's up."},{"start":25600,"end":25602,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry?"},{"start":25602,"end":25604,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your time is up."},{"start":25604,"end":25620,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, no thank you, Ma'am. I was almost done, Speaker, but I will request that Council approve this report. The residents of Alexandra and Marlboro wants this development because it's the only development that can address the housing challenges in that region. Thank you."},{"start":25620,"end":25631,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, MMC. Colleagues, the recommendations on page 15.8. Let's hear, ACDP, you're still three?"},{"start":25631,"end":25635,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're still three and we approve. Thank you."},{"start":25635,"end":25639,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus, are you still four?"},{"start":25639,"end":25642,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, still four and we abstain."},{"start":25642,"end":25652,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD, are you still one? And how do you vote?"},{"start":25652,"end":25659,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker. Sorry, Madam Speaker, we're still one and we approve."},{"start":25659,"end":25663,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM?"},{"start":25663,"end":25666,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All here, Speaker, approved."},{"start":25666,"end":25668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM?"},{"start":25668,"end":25673,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we approve, Madam Speaker."},{"start":25673,"end":25680,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":25680,"end":25684,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve. Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve."},{"start":25684,"end":25689,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah, are you still three?"},{"start":25689,"end":25691,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve."},{"start":25691,"end":25694,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":25694,"end":25697,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve. Thank you."},{"start":25697,"end":25702,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":25702,"end":25705,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, agree."},{"start":25705,"end":25714,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC, are you still two?"},{"start":25714,"end":25720,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Seems like AIC has dropped. IFP, are you still six?"},{"start":25720,"end":25722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, and we approve."},{"start":25722,"end":25726,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA, are you still 11?"},{"start":25726,"end":25729,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we approve."},{"start":25729,"end":25733,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF, are you still 18?"},{"start":25733,"end":25736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we're still 18 and we approve."},{"start":25736,"end":25739,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA, are you still 25?"},{"start":25739,"end":25743,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, we approve."},{"start":25743,"end":25747,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA, are you still 56?"},{"start":25747,"end":25753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker, we're now down to 55, and no, we don't approve this."},{"start":25753,"end":25757,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, ANC, are you still 69?"},{"start":25757,"end":25760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we approve."},{"start":25760,"end":25790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Can you guys both calculate, ne, and just put those numbers? STC, next item."},{"start":25790,"end":25804,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 16 is the City of Johannesburg recognition, management and progressive upgrading of 379 informal settlements."},{"start":25804,"end":25808,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Harris."},{"start":25808,"end":25835,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Once again, good afternoon, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak to item 16. The report requests the council to recognise a consolidated total of 379 verified informal settlements. It also seeks to obtain council approval and authorisation for the utilisation of land on which the recognised informal settlements are situated, subject to the applicable land ownership arrangements."},{"start":25835,"end":25863,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Amongst the settlements the city is asked to recognise is Kathrada Park in Region B with 297 households. This is wholly inaccurate because the nearly 3,000 shacks in the area are not tabulated. Zamimpilo has turned into a mining town with 3,200 reported households. Council recognition of this settlement is tacit admission that the fight against illegal mining and other illegalities is lost."},{"start":25863,"end":25890,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What do the residents of neighbouring Horseshoe think about this? While bona fide residents' living conditions may be uplifted over time, we are essentially giving a blank cheque to shack farmers to continue their business unhindered. Finally, no mention is made of the plans to deal with the thousands of shack dwellers trapped in historically disadvantaged areas. To my knowledge, there is no better class of shack dweller"},{"start":25890,"end":25912,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and one class getting better treatment than the other. It is highly irresponsible to agree to the permanence of these informal settlements with no indication of plans for in situ development and the eventual eradication of informal settlements. That's my submission, Madam. I thank you."},{"start":25912,"end":25918,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Harris. Councillor Rambani."},{"start":25918,"end":25940,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are moving. Councillor Rambani not here? Okay. Councillor Nenemba is also not here. Councillor Khumalo was not here. Can we then go to"},{"start":25940,"end":25946,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Councillor Maluleka again, we"},{"start":25946,"end":25948,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Councillor Khumalo here."},{"start":25948,"end":25950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, yes."},{"start":25950,"end":25956,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Just hold on. Come in, Councillor Khumalo."},{"start":25956,"end":25966,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to you and all protocols observed. As African National Congress, we note the report. Thank you."},{"start":25966,"end":25972,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Khumalo. MMC Mabaso."},{"start":25972,"end":25981,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry, Speaker. Sorry, Madam Speaker, the network problem kicked me out, but AIC also notes the report. Thank you."},{"start":25981,"end":25990,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are long past the report. AIC, you are lost. You must find your way back from Matatiele to Joburg."},{"start":25990,"end":25994,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm lost. Okay, sorry."},{"start":25994,"end":25997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mabaso."},{"start":25997,"end":26025,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, I think one needs to clarify this point because in the very same Council, you know, we just approved the report on the management of informal settlements, and part of the issues that Councillor Harris is raising have been addressed in that policy. And I think it's also imperative to understand that, you know,"},{"start":26025,"end":26055,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"when we read policies and programs, we must not read them in isolation, because these policies and strategies, they are there to complement each other. Speaker, the report that we are tabling in Council, one, we are tabling the report for the purposes of us working in the informal settlements. These informal settlements are there, Speaker, have been established."},{"start":26055,"end":26085,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And our mandate as Human Settlements is to work in these informal settlements, not to enforce by-laws, because we have no mandate to enforce by-laws. It cannot be on the responsibility of Human Settlements, you know, in the establishment of the informal settlements because we have no mandate to respond. It's only law enforcement agencies that are mandated by law to respond. So, ours is to work once the informal settlement has been established."},{"start":26085,"end":26116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Now, Speaker, I think it's important to note that for us to work in the informal settlements, we ought to have obtained a Council resolution. This is not a report tabled by Human Settlements in Council for the purposes of obtaining Council resolutions for us to inject resources in these informal settlements. Yes, we might have, you know, discrepancies in terms of number of households in the informal settlements because"},{"start":26116,"end":26146,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the number of households keeps on increasing in the informal settlements, and we are finding it difficult to contain the numbers because of criminal elements and the informality that comes with certain activities within the informal settlements. But, you know, we can't fold our arms and say because the informal settlement has been established, you know, in the middle of a suburb and then we cannot work, when it's our residents that are in"},{"start":26146,"end":26179,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"those settlements, when it's our people that are in those settlements. And as government, we have a mandate and we've got a constitutional obligation to provide services to our people. So, as Human Settlements, because we've got a dedicated grant, a ring-fenced grant that talks to the formalisation and upgrading of informal settlements, this Council must then give us authorisation for us to work in those informal settlements, not to say all of them will be upgraded in one financial year,"},{"start":26179,"end":26209,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we need to embark on processes to formalise and upgrade our informal settlements, hence we are now presenting this report in Council. But over and above that, Speaker, I think it's imperative for councillors to know and understand the number of informal settlements that we have that are recognised by the city in the City of Johannesburg, so that when we talk about figures, we not make assumptions, but we talk to the figures that have been approved by Council. So, we've made it a point that all regions make their own submissions"},{"start":26209,"end":26242,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"on the informal settlements that are established in their areas, and there are those informal settlements where we are still required to go back and conduct the audit and verification so that we determine the number of households that are in those informal settlements. So, it's a right thing to do for the City of Johannesburg to recognise and approve this report so that we give authority and a mandate to Human Settlements to inject the government resources for us to improve the living conditions of our people in these informal settlements. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":26242,"end":26257,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor MMC. Recommendations page 16.40 to 16.42. ACDP, are you three, and how do you vote?"},{"start":26257,"end":26261,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still three, Madam, and I'm saying no."},{"start":26261,"end":26268,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus, are you still four?"},{"start":26268,"end":26271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we are still four and we say no."},{"start":26271,"end":26275,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. GOOD, are you still one?"},{"start":26275,"end":26278,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Still one, and no, Madam Speaker."},{"start":26278,"end":26286,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UDM, are you still one, and how do you vote?"},{"start":26286,"end":26289,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Approved, Speaker."},{"start":26289,"end":26293,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. UIM, how do you vote?"},{"start":26293,"end":26296,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, it's a no from the UIM."},{"start":26296,"end":26302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, ATM?"},{"start":26302,"end":26304,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":26304,"end":26307,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":26307,"end":26310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Approved, Speaker."},{"start":26310,"end":26312,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":26312,"end":26315,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Approved, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":26315,"end":26317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":26317,"end":26325,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":26325,"end":26327,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":26327,"end":26335,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, without the Matatiele euphoria, Madam Speaker, we're still 100% two, and we approve the report."},{"start":26335,"end":26339,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":26339,"end":26343,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still six and we approve the report."},{"start":26343,"end":26346,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA, are you still 11?"},{"start":26346,"end":26350,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we approve."},{"start":26350,"end":26353,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF, are you still 18?"},{"start":26353,"end":26356,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we're still 18 and we approve."},{"start":26356,"end":26359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA, are you still 25?"},{"start":26359,"end":26362,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we approve."},{"start":26362,"end":26366,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA, are you still 55?"},{"start":26366,"end":26369,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are, Speaker, and we abstain."},{"start":26369,"end":26374,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ANC, are you still 69?"},{"start":26374,"end":26377,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we approve."},{"start":26377,"end":26390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ACDP, Freedom Front Plus, GOOD, how did you vote, GOOD? Against, ne?"},{"start":26390,"end":26391,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Against."},{"start":26391,"end":26411,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So it's ACDP, Freedom Front Plus, GOOD, UIM and who? And DA that abstains. The item is carried. Okay, let's go next item, STC. I love the way you people are rolling."},{"start":26411,"end":26435,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on item 18, and that is City of Johannesburg MFMA In-Year Financial Report for the period ended 30th June 2026, also read together with item 19, which is the City of Johannesburg MFMA In-Year Financial Report for the period ended 31st July 2026."},{"start":26435,"end":26447,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Councillor Mkhonza. Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":26447,"end":26450,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello, Madam Speaker, can you hear me?"},{"start":26450,"end":26460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who is that that's talking and I'm calling Councillor Mkhonza? UIM, please. Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":26460,"end":26471,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, Madam Speaker, it is the position of the ACDP caucus that these in-year reports are very late because"},{"start":26471,"end":26482,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkhonza, just hold on. Councillor Mkhonza, just hold on. Councillor Nkonyeni, your hand is up."},{"start":26482,"end":26493,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Speaker, I wanted to come in before Councillor Mkhonza started in relation to, since you're combining the items, the time that will be allocated, Speaker."},{"start":26493,"end":26496,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I've got the time. I've got the time. Don't worry."},{"start":26496,"end":26500,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is it two, is it four, is it 10 minutes?"},{"start":26500,"end":26509,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I have the time, Councillor. I have the time. It's two items, it's combined."},{"start":26509,"end":26511,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":26511,"end":26515,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Drie plus drie is ses. Hy het ses minute."},{"start":26515,"end":26522,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Mkhonza, we're starting your time over. He wasted your time. Come on."},{"start":26522,"end":26549,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. No, thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Shalom, shalom once again. I was saying that I'm going to speak only on item 18 to say that these items, Madam Speaker, they are old anyway. So, we are discussing in-year reports, and there's nothing that we can do to rectify whatever has happened. However, as the ACDP, we are disappointed with the"},{"start":26549,"end":26565,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"performance of the conditional grants at 66%, which is unacceptable. So, as the ACDP, as we note this report, we're saying that going to the next financial year, we should consider using all our conditional grants. I thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":26565,"end":26567,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mkhonza."},{"start":26567,"end":26571,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Raadslid Boer."},{"start":26571,"end":26573,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie, Mevrou die Speaker. En"},{"start":26573,"end":26574,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Praat jy op albei, né?"},{"start":26574,"end":26580,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Aangesien u nou so baie tyd het, kan ek sommer Councillor Mkhonza se vyf minute ook nog kry, asseblief?"},{"start":26580,"end":26582,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Uh-uh. Kom, kom, praat."},{"start":26582,"end":26609,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, I'll start off with item number 18, the MFMA report for June 2026. That is the close of our financial year-end. We had cash balances at the bank of end of June of 2.8 billion, but as the previous speaker has said, we only spent 66% of our conditional grant spending. It means 1.6 billion rand was unpaid. I know we're still waiting for some adjustments,"},{"start":26609,"end":26639,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but if we take the 1.6 billion rand off our cash balance, we only had 1.2 billion rand in the bank, and that's why I said previously our financial position is still in dire straits. And we're also running the danger of having to repay the 1.6 billion rand unpaid CapEx on the grant spending. Madam Speaker, our two entities, City Power and Johannesburg Water, which we want to ring-fence,"},{"start":26639,"end":26671,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"City Power used in the last financial year 3.8 billion rand which the core city had to inject into City Power to keep it afloat. For Johannesburg Water, it was 612 million. So, those two entities are screaming to be ring-fenced, but ring-fenced means you won't get money from core anymore, you have to stand on your own feet, and they cannot stand on their own feet. The collection rate for June was pretty okay, 88.5%,"},{"start":26671,"end":26701,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"which lifted the year total to over 85%. We had a year-to-date loss of 1.2 billion rand, which is not good, because that means we can't even pay our loans. The big variances on the expenditure side was bulk purchases. We've spoken about it many times this year, 3 billion rand over budget. Debt impairment, 2 billion rand over budget, and salaries, 785 million rand over budget."},{"start":26701,"end":26730,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, those three items will all go again in our financial statements for 2025/2026 as unauthorised expenditures, and we warned about this, and it happened. For the item number 19, the July report, City Power's overdraft went up to 22.4 billion rand, and just for the month alone, it went up by 3 billion rand. And I've got an idea"},{"start":26730,"end":26760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that that 3 billion is as a result of the Eskom debt that was paid either in full or partially, but it's a shocking amount of money that City Power owes the city, 22 billion rand. What saved us in July is we received our equitable share of 3.6 billion, and if I look at the figures, although the report doesn't say it in so much words, that 3.6 billion rand went directly over to"},{"start":26760,"end":26791,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"City Power to pay to Eskom. The positive in July was the collection rate. The collection rate was 90.2%, and we really need to congratulate Lufuno on this. That was a great performance. But the problem what we do have is we have received our equitable share of 3.6 billion, that that share is supposed to keep us afloat up until the end of today, because it's a quarterly equitable share,"},{"start":26791,"end":26821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we spent it already in July on Eskom. So, I don't know how we're going to be afloat for the next couple of months. Our outstanding debt has increased to 79 billion rand, and I predicted two years ago that by the end of this term, our OpEx budget would probably be the same as our debtors' book, and we are nearly there. 79 billion is owed to the city and there's no sign of that amount coming down."},{"start":26821,"end":26856,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I'm closing off. The concerning figure in July is Johannesburg Water. For the month of July alone, they are 22% under budget on their billing, and that is 224 million rand. So, we can clearly see Johannesburg Water's problems are just getting worse and worse. We are losing more and more water, and we're billing less and less. So, water is really our Achilles heel at the moment. Madam Speaker, I'm going to leave it there. I would like to leave some for my colleagues as well. Thank you very much."},{"start":26856,"end":26859,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Jissie, jy het dit mooi gemanage."},{"start":26859,"end":26866,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Councillor Nkonyeni."},{"start":26866,"end":26895,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Honourable Speaker, greetings to yourself, greetings to the colleagues, all protocol observed. Speaker, while we welcome the positive net movements reflected in the city's finances, we must be honest that there are still serious challenges on the ground that require decisive intervention. The city cannot stop its operations at Marble Hall. Law enforcement and by-law enforcement must be felt across the City"},{"start":26895,"end":26953,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of Johannesburg. We continue to see proliferation of illegal structures and unauthorised informal trading in our communities. In Ward 67, shacks have been erected inside Pieter Roos Park. Rockey Street remains a challenge, while the Yeoville Market continues to experience serious problems. Quartz Street is in a concerning state, and Pretoria Street in Hillbrow continue to face challenges relating to congestion, informal trading and unlawful activity. In Ward 62, Hillbrow, the presence and activities of abomalayisha have become a major concern for residents and our by-laws. Honourable Speaker, I am pleading with the Mayor, can our by-laws actually be enforced consistently across the city? We cannot have by-laws that exist on paper, but are not effectively implemented on the ground. Enforcement must be consistent, visible and fair. On electricity, we note the positive net movement,"},{"start":26953,"end":26981,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we must do more to improve prepaid electricity collections and protect the city's revenue. The city should accelerate the installation of smart prepaid meters, particularly in areas where conventional billing has become unreliable. We must also intensify action against illegal electricity connections and electricity theft. Where corruption is found among contractors and subcontractors, there must be consequences."},{"start":26981,"end":27000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Those responsible must be investigated, prosecuted where appropriate, blacklisted in accordance with the law, and the city must recover funds where financial losses have occurred. Cable theft is another serious threat to service delivery as such areas"},{"start":27000,"end":27030,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"areas such as Marshalltown, Jeppestown, and Berea are being severely affected. This is not merely an inconvenience. Cable theft disrupts electricity supply, damages infrastructure, and places additional financial pressure on the city. Honourable Speaker, we must also address the city's approach to pre-termination notices. Residents should not continue receiving pre-termination notices where legitimate billing queries remain unresolved. Before threatening disconnection,"},{"start":27030,"end":27060,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the city must ensure that billing disputes have been properly investigated and that the person being held liable is in fact the lawful account holder or the owner. This is particularly important in hijacked buildings where ordinary residents and tenants can find themselves caught between the city and property owners whose identities or ownership records have not been properly established. Speaker, revenue collection and law enforcement must go hand in hand. We cannot expect residents to pay their"},{"start":27060,"end":27090,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"accounts while allowing illegal connections, cable theft, unauthorized structures, illegal trading, and unresolved billing problems to undermine the city's revenue base. We need a city that enforces its own laws, protects its infrastructure, collects the revenue that is legitimately due, deals decisively with corruption, and at the same time treats residents fairly. Uh on item 19, Speaker, this report gives us a picture"},{"start":27090,"end":27120,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of the city's financial position. And while there are positive elements, we must focus on what this means for service delivery. We welcome improved revenue collection, uh improved revenue position, and the operating surplus reflected in this report. However, we remain concerned about the financial pressure facing some of our municipal entities, particularly City Power and Joburg Water. Speaker, the city must improve revenue collection. It is a non-negotiable."},{"start":27120,"end":27150,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We don't have to look far for an example. We just have to look next door and take notes from Tshwane. Residents cannot be expected to pay accounts that they do not understand, that contain unresolved billing problems. We need accurate billing, faster resolution disputes, and stronger action against illegal connections and electricity theft. The report also shows that the city's capital spending is still very low at this stage of the financial year."},{"start":27150,"end":27180,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"My recommendation is simple: approved capital must become actual projects on the ground. Residents do not care about glossy reports; they care about pothole repairs, service delivery, proper infrastructure, and quick turnaround times. However, this GLU has failed dismally on all fronts. We therefore need to dissolve failing entities and collapse them into their parent companies, and we must implement institutional review. We must be mSCOA"},{"start":27180,"end":27210,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"compliant and do away with boards. Honourable Speaker, this report is recommended, this report is for noting, and I support noting it, but with concern. Um Speaker, noting this report does not simply mean filing it away until the next month. We need to use the reports to ask whether the city is improving. Are we collecting more? Are we spending effectively? Are our entities becoming"},{"start":27210,"end":27217,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"financially stronger? And most importantly, are residents receiving better services? Madam Speaker,"},{"start":27217,"end":27225,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"asinandaba ukuthi ubani uthini. Asinalo uvalo. Siyabonga ukuthi siyamgcina uMzolo namhlanje."},{"start":27225,"end":27231,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What a blessing. Madam Speaker, that was a play on words, but I know uMzolo missed it"},{"start":27231,"end":27232,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"ngoba kumnyama."},{"start":27232,"end":27239,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And they can remove our billboards, we don't care because only dogs bark at a moving car, at a moving car."},{"start":27239,"end":27240,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ngiyabonga,"},{"start":27240,"end":27241,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker."},{"start":27241,"end":27244,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayi suka wena!"},{"start":27244,"end":27253,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I decide comments. Councillor Santana."},{"start":27253,"end":27284,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, I rise to speak on item 18 first. Um the City of Johannesburg MFMA in-year financial report for the period ended 30th of June. Speaker, this report is supposed to provide Council with the assurance that the city is managing public financials responsibly. Instead, it raises serious questions about the city's financial sustainability. The headline figure is simple: revenue is only 0.4% ahead of budget,"},{"start":27284,"end":27315,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but expenditure is 6% over budget, a staggering 4.8 billion overspend. The result is an operating deficit of approximately 1.2 billion against the budgeted surplus of 3.2 billion. That is a swing of more than 4.4 billion rand from what Council approved. Speaker, that is not a minor variance; it's a warning. The city's revenue performance cannot carry expenditure that is running substantially ahead of budget. And when we look at the detail, the"},{"start":27315,"end":27347,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"picture becomes more concerning. Bulk purchases were 3.1 billion over budget, debt impairment was 2 billion over budget, and inventory consumed was more than 450 million over budget. But at the same time, water revenue was 1.17 billion below budget, with the report attributing this partly to throttling, economic pressure, conservation, and significant non-revenue water losses. Speaker, this is a fundamental problem. The city is losing revenue where it should be collecting it,"},{"start":27347,"end":27378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"while spending more than it budgeted to spend. That is not a sustainable financial model. Then we come to the debtors book. The city's total book stood approximately 76.7 billion at the year-end. That's more than, and more than 55.6 billion of that is debt older than one year. DA has consistently argued that the city must improve revenue collection and aggressively address long-outstanding debt while distinguishing between genuine inability"},{"start":27378,"end":27410,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to pay and deliberate non-payment. But collection must also be supported by accurate billing. You cannot expect residents to pay bills they cannot understand or that are disputed because the city's own systems are not functioning properly. Speaker, the report itself confirms another serious problem: the city does not have, does not yet have a fully operational mSCOA system for transacting. The city is still relying on interim reporting solutions and a hybrid SAP processing involving manual interventions."},{"start":27410,"end":27442,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"After years of municipal financial reporting requirements, that should concern every member of this Council. Good financial governance depends on reliable, integrated, and timely financial information. If management cannot obtain clean information from its systems, then Council cannot exercise effective oversight. Speaker, capital expenditure provides another important lesson. The city reports capital expenditure of 6.1 billion, or 72% of the 8.4 billion adjusted budget."},{"start":27442,"end":27473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But the performance is uneven. Pikitup spent only 22% of its capital budget, Joburg Water only spent 63%, the core administration spent approximately 64%, Economic Development recorded zero capital expenditure against its allocation. Speaker, this matters because capital expenditure is not just an accounting line; it's an investment into the city's future. It's water infrastructure, it's electricity infrastructure,"},{"start":27473,"end":27504,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"it's roads, it's public facilities. It's the infrastructure required to support economic growth and reliable service delivery. And where capital budgets are not spent, residents ultimately pay the price through deteriorating infrastructure and growing maintenance backlogs. Speaker, we must also look at liquidity. The city ended with a cash equivalence of approximately 2.8 billion, but the cash flow statement shows a 7.8 billion net decrease from financing activities, including significant repayments of borrowings."},{"start":27504,"end":27535,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The city also received 952 million long-term loan during the June's cash movements. This Council therefore needs to be extremely careful about relying on borrowing to support financial sustainability. Debt is not revenue. A loan cannot fund productive infrastructure, a loan can fund productive infrastructure, but it cannot permanently solve a structural operating deficit. Speaker, the report also tells us that City Power, JRA, JOSHCO, Metrobus, and other municipal entities remain overdrawn within the city's"},{"start":27535,"end":27566,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"sweeping arrangements. This reinforces the need for genuine reform of the city's financial relationship with its municipal entities. We need transparent entity-level accountability. We need to know which entities are financially sustainable, which require intervention, and what measurable turnaround plans are in place. Speaker, the DA therefore calls for three things from this report. Firstly, expenditure discipline. A 4.8 billion operating overspend cannot simply become another year-end variance. The executive"},{"start":27566,"end":27597,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"must identify where expenditure is exceeding budget, why is it happening, and what corrective action will prevent future recurrence. Second, revenue reform. The city must improve billing accuracy, collection efficiency, debt recovery, and reduction of water and electricity losses. The June collection rate was 88.5%, while the budget assumption was 98.5%. That is a 690 million shortfall against adjusted collection budget for that month. Finally, accountability and transparency."},{"start":27597,"end":27629,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The Section 71 reports must be more than a statutory compliance exercise; it must provide Council with an early warning system. If expenditure is running at 6% above budget, Council must know before the crisis becomes irreversible. If revenue is falling behind, we must know why. If an entity is financially distressed, we must know what intervention is being implemented. And if corrective action repeatedly fails,"},{"start":27629,"end":27661,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"there must be consequences. Speaker, the DA will continue to perform its role as a responsible opposition. We will scrutinize the numbers, challenge poor financial performance, and support reforms that protect the long-term sustainability of Johannesburg. Because ultimately, it's not about the spreadsheets; it's about whether the city can keep the lights on. Madam Speaker, I'll move over to um item 19. Madam Speaker, uh I'll rise to speak on"},{"start":27661,"end":27692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"item 19, the MFMA in-year report for the period ending 31st of July. Madam Speaker, this report highlights a fundamental problem facing Joburg. There's a growing gap between what this administration budgets for and what it actually delivers. The administration may point to a reported 2.1 billion operating surplus, but Council must look beyond the headline figure and ask what is happening to the city's infrastructure, services, and long-term financial stability. The city's adjusted capital budget is"},{"start":27692,"end":27722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"approximately 8.8 billion, yet by the end of July, only 91 million, just 1%, had actually been spent. That is deeply concerning. This report indicates that no core department had commenced capital spending, while only five municipal entities had begun spending. Speaker, Johannesburg does not have an infrastructure shortage because there is no money in the budget; it has an implementation problem. Residents do not experience a capital budget; they experience potholes, burst pipes, failing infrastructure, unreliable services, and deteriorating"},{"start":27722,"end":27753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"public facilities. Money sitting in a budget does not repair a road or replace a water pipe; implementation does. We therefore need the administration to explain clearly and publicly what is preventing the city from turning approved capital budgets into actual projects. Speaker, the city's cash position is equally concerning. At the end of July, cash and cash equivalents stood at approximately 2 billion, having declined by approximately 834 million during the month."},{"start":27753,"end":27786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Operating cash flow was negative by approximately 648 million. At the same time, the city's debtors stood at 79 billion. That's 79 billion owed to the city, and yet the report acknowledges that the SAP system is not currently configured to provide service charge information for periods exceeding 90 days. We must ask a very basic question: how can the city effectively manage a 79 billion debtors book if its systems cannot provide complete information on aged debt?"},{"start":27786,"end":27816,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This is simply not an IT issue; it's a financial governance issue. The report once again also states the city does not yet have an mSCOA system for transacting and is relying on interim reporting solutions. Council needs reliable, timely, and complete financial information if we are to exercise meaningful oversight. Speaker, revenue collection provides another warning. The city collected approximately 5.8 billion against billing of 6.4 billion, a collection rate of 90.2%."},{"start":27816,"end":27847,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Well, that is an improvement from the previous month and in the financial year, it's whether that is sustainable. But here's where the problem lies: water collection was only 78.3%, while refuse collection was 77.6%. The report records a 22% under-recovery in water service charges. These numbers matter because the revenue collection ultimately determines the city's ability to maintain infrastructure and deliver service. The DA therefore welcomes every legitimate effort to improve collection,"},{"start":27847,"end":27878,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we need more than periodic disconnection campaigns. We need a sustainable revenue management system that identifies debt accurately, deals with chronic non-payment, improves billing systems, and ensures that those who can pay, do pay. Speaker, the DA believes that the Council must demand measurable accountability. We therefore call for monthly reporting on capital expenditure against project-level targets, clear reasons and corrective measures where projects fail to meet those targets, a credible plan to address the city's"},{"start":27878,"end":27909,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"79 billion debtors book, the urgent progress on the city's financial system and mSCOA implementation, and a stronger oversight of municipal entities experiencing significant financial pressures. Every corrective action must have a deadline, a responsible official, and a measurable outcome, because a corrective action without a deadline is simply a promise, and a budget without implementation is simply a number on a spreadsheet. Speaker, the GLU government cannot expect Council to focus only on reported operating"},{"start":27909,"end":27927,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"surpluses while capital expenditure remains at 1%, cash is under pressure, and debtors stands at 79 billion, and significant gap remains in the city's financial systems. The DA will scrutinize the numbers, but more importantly, will scrutinize the outcomes. I thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":27927,"end":27948,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Santana. Councillor [inaudible], ANC. Not available. Alright. MMC Masuku."},{"start":27948,"end":27950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker."},{"start":27950,"end":27954,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, whom am I speaking... Yes, whom am I speaking to?"},{"start":27954,"end":27957,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor Maswazi."},{"start":27957,"end":27960,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Maswazi. Can you go?"},{"start":27960,"end":27991,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Uh thank you, thank you, Speaker. Um I think um let me start maybe by greeting the Executive Mayor, the MMC for Finance, uh Chair of Chairs, fellow councillors, officials, and residents of Johannesburg, all protocol observed. I rise, Speaker, to also deliberate on the same matter uh in the City of Johannesburg um MFMA mid-year financial report for the period end, ending 30 June 2026."},{"start":27991,"end":28024,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"This report, Speaker, also acknowledges, in fact, when I listen to uh the two councillors, Councillor Nkonyeni and Councillor Santana, one also acknowledges the fact that they do agree that there is some improvement uh that uh this GLU have already shown. And then they do also agree that uh maybe the lack of implementation of the mSCOA also contributes to some of the um failures that we have already recognized as a team or as the GLU to say there will be some improvement on that. But"},{"start":28024,"end":28057,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"this report, Speaker, is important because it represents the financial close of the 2025/26 financial year and gives Council an opportunity not only to look at the numbers, because a lot of numbers have been deliberated, but also to understand what those numbers tell us about the city's ability to translate into the budget, the budget into sustainable service delivery. The report, Speaker, records a revenue over-recovery of approximately 376 million"},{"start":28057,"end":28088,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"against the year-to-date budget. At the same time, operating expenditure was 6% above the budget, representing approximately 4.8 billion rands. The reported operating position was a deficit of approximately 1.2 billion against a budgeted surplus of 3.2 billion. This figure, Speaker, requires us to look beyond whether the city spent money; instead, ask whether expenditure was planned, necessary, affordable,"},{"start":28088,"end":28120,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and also linked to measurable outcomes. Because I think one speaker also mentioned that it's not about spending, but you must also have a plan, and I think this is what, it answers to what uh Councillor Santana was saying. Speaker, one area that deserves particular attention is capital expenditure. The adjustment capital budget stood at approximately 8.4 billion, while actual expenditure was approximately 6.1 billion, representing 72% of the budget and the point reported."},{"start":28120,"end":28151,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Capital expenditure is important because this is where financial resources are converted into infrastructure and long-term assets. Therefore, where capital expenditure is below target, the question should not merely be why was the money not spent. It doesn't work like that. The more important question it should be: what project was delayed? What caused the delay? Who is affected? And what is the revised completion plan?"},{"start":28151,"end":28183,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Because those can be some unforeseen circumstances that will happen in our lives as we go. This approach, Speaker, will allow Council to connect financial performances with actual service delivery. The report also brings our attention to grant funding, Speaker. The city reports matters involving the USDG, ISUPG, equitable share, and other grant programs uh that we have. Speaker, the report also raises an important systems issue, and I know that Santana,"},{"start":28183,"end":28217,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Santana has actually deliberated and danced around it, uh trying to understand what is our position. The city, yes, continues to work towards full mSCOA compliance because we believe that through the SAP uh business transformation process, while certain financial schedules still require uh manual interventions, reliable financial management requires reliable financial information. So mSCOA plays a critical role in order for us to be able to ensure that there's proper compliance on the Treasury and also compliance"},{"start":28217,"end":28250,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"on where to spend, how much to spend on what. So, and I think that's what uh councillors were raising. We therefore encourage continued attention to SAP transformation, which the MMC and the team are already doing, particularly where systems limitations affect debtor aging, uh revenue information, and management reporting. Finally, Speaker, the purpose of financial oversight is not simply to identify deviations, like other councillors have done; it is also to ensure that corrective action follows. The 2025 financial year"},{"start":28250,"end":28282,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"has provided us with important lessons around expenditure management, capital implementation, grant management, revenue collection, and financial systems. As we move into the new financial year, these lessons should inform our monitoring approach. Our recommendations, therefore, Speaker, um is that Finance continues to strengthen uh monthly variance reporting, capital project monitoring, revenue collection reporting, grant management, and system transformation."},{"start":28282,"end":28315,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And when I was listening to Councillor Nkonyeni, he did mention that there is a lot of improvement, but yes, he differed and then he put his own uh input on how things should improve. But at the end, Councillor Nkonyeni, when he sat down, he said the GLU have failed dismally. So now, the two, I don't think they do uh match, because if there is improvement and you have pointed them out, it can't be correct to say that the GLU have dismally failed. But with that, Speaker, uh the objective must remain clear: every rand budgeted must be linked to a clear financial purpose,"},{"start":28315,"end":28324,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a measurable output, and ultimately a benefit for the residents of Johannesburg. And I thank you."},{"start":28324,"end":28334,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Maswazi. Uh MMC Masuku."},{"start":28334,"end":28359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, the inputs from the respective councillors are noted, and I think they are warranted, and we take note of it. And uh in the main, some also have been articulated in the Section 79 committee. Thank you very much, councillors, for your inputs. We ask Council to uh note the reports. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":28359,"end":28370,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Uh colleagues, these both these reports are for noting. Can we hear how we note? ACDP."},{"start":28370,"end":28373,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, noted, Madam."},{"start":28373,"end":28376,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":28376,"end":28379,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We note, Madam Speaker, with great concern."},{"start":28379,"end":28381,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":28381,"end":28383,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28383,"end":28390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM. UIM."},{"start":28390,"end":28393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28393,"end":28394,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":28394,"end":28396,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker, UDM."},{"start":28396,"end":28399,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ATM."},{"start":28399,"end":28402,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28402,"end":28404,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":28404,"end":28405,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28405,"end":28407,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":28407,"end":28409,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28409,"end":28413,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":28413,"end":28415,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28415,"end":28418,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":28418,"end":28419,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Siyavuma,"},{"start":28419,"end":28421,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":28421,"end":28424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":28424,"end":28427,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":28427,"end":28429,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":28429,"end":28431,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28431,"end":28434,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":28434,"end":28436,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28436,"end":28438,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":28438,"end":28441,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28441,"end":28444,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":28444,"end":28448,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker, with reservations expressed."},{"start":28448,"end":28450,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":28450,"end":28453,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28453,"end":28464,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Um the items are all, both of them are noted. Thank you so much. STC."},{"start":28464,"end":28487,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are now on item 21, and that is City of Johannesburg Disaster Management Volunteer Policy, read together with item 22, which is the recommendation for approval of the City of Johannesburg Disaster Management Policy Framework, and lastly read with item 23, which is the review of the 2024 Disaster Management Level 1 Plan."},{"start":28487,"end":28500,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, item 21. Councillor Benjamin, you speak on all three from the DA."},{"start":28500,"end":28502,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You don't have 24 minutes."},{"start":28502,"end":28507,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hayi bo."},{"start":28507,"end":28517,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor R. Benjamin. It looks like she's not around, hey?"},{"start":28517,"end":28540,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, sorry, we're trying to unmute. Our systems are not great in this weather. Thank you, Speaker. Yes, I will speak on all three items. Um Madam Speaker, um greetings to yourself and to the executive, um all protocol..."},{"start":28540,"end":28578,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Close the door. We hear the cars, we hear everything. Councillor Benjamin."},{"start":28578,"end":28580,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hello."},{"start":28580,"end":28581,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That's not me."},{"start":28581,"end":28583,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Benjamin."},{"start":28583,"end":28585,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":28585,"end":28590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your time is running. Please close the door wherever you are."},{"start":28590,"end":28602,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I don't have an open door, Madam Speaker. I'm sitting at the back end of a house. There's no open doors. If there's noises, it's coming from someone else."},{"start":28602,"end":28610,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Karolia. Councillor Benjamin, can you move?"},{"start":28610,"end":28615,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you still hear me, Council... Speaker, can you still hear me?"},{"start":28615,"end":28619,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can hear you, Councillor."},{"start":28619,"end":28650,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Um so Disaster Management uh Volunteer Policy, um these are the residents who are going to put up their hands in the communities and are going to help out when there are disasters. Um but the volunteers don't just form the bridge that, uh form the bridge for the gap; they are also the foundation when we need to recover. The city has a responsibility"},{"start":28650,"end":28681,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"not only to these volunteers, but also to our residents that they will assist. The Democratic Alliance supports effective data, disaster preparedness, and response. Our published policy commitment includes strong early responses, capability, public awareness, and communities that are better prepared for risk. My concern with this policy is that its financial implications says"},{"start":28681,"end":28714,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"\"to be determined\". We are being asked to approve a policy document that cannot outline its financial impact on the city and its residents. This is not an acceptable response in a document at the highest level of the City of Johannesburg. What happens when the first recruitment campaign succeeds? Who checks the qualification? Who conducts the training? Who provides the equipment? And at what point are the volunteers considered ready"},{"start":28714,"end":28748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to be deployed? None of these are covered within this policy. The annexure calls for the public liability insurance to be extended to these volunteers. It also calls for a comprehensive framework. None of these are outlined within this policy. These are not just questions designed to delay a good policy; they are the questions that make a good policy safe to implement. Speaker, we are in an election period, and we cannot just rubber-stamp this."},{"start":28748,"end":28780,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But the Council must judge these proposals by whether they can protect the people that we are putting out there, as well as protect the residents. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark, yet he was prepared for the flood that came. And we need to take up the same responsibility, a responsibility needed to continue long after this announcement, so that the risk faced by the volunteers we deploy and the residents waiting for their assistance is minimum."},{"start":28780,"end":28800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Our position is straightforward: we need to establish that the volunteer services run properly, or they should not run at all. Item 21, as great as it is, brings this Council no information. It has no based cost..."},{"start":28800,"end":28829,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"roll out for the seven regions. There's no managed recruitment. Who is doing the training, what is the equipment required and most importantly, what is the cost to the residents of the city. Madam Speaker, at this stage as it currently stands, the DA cannot accept or agree to item 21 as it stands. Item 22's policy framework is equally concerning. Again,"},{"start":28829,"end":28860,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"no financial implications. However, there needs to be first responders who are sent out in situations as just alluded to in the first policy, with all the equipment training that needs to go. The principles of the services that needs to be surrendered needs to be set out in a proper"},{"start":28860,"end":28890,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"framework. A framework that works, a framework that puts these guys in a position to manage a disaster and not become part of the disaster. A local government's commitment must also emphasize professional administration, transparency and financial discipline. We need a financial framework that the council can show it can deliver what it is promising to our residents, because their lives depends on what we agree to today."},{"start":28890,"end":28920,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What is the value of the proposed fund? Well, we don't know, because it says there is none. A disaster does not wait for a department to resolve a budget concern. On paper, the city appears prepared. At the scene, the resident waits, the responder improvises and precious time is lost. The framework must be led to action in our wards. The ward councillors as well as its residents must have an input"},{"start":28920,"end":28950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"into where the high risks are within the wards. Speaker, we approach this elections. Residents will hear many promises about a safer, better managed city and they deserve such. They also deserve to know who promises are backed and that his promises are backed by resources, sorry. We cannot rubber-stamp financial commitments that have not been clearly explained. Any approval today must stand up to the scrutiny tomorrow,"},{"start":28950,"end":28980,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"regardless of who occupies the seats after the election. The DA supports an effective disaster management framework that is transparent, funded and capable of producing results. We cannot stop disasters, Madam Speaker, but we can arm ourselves so that the lives are not lost, but saved because of effective disaster preparedness. Again, the financial"},{"start":28980,"end":29010,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"implications of this policy is not listed and it needs to be that this council cannot make a decision on funding it is not aware of. In its current form, the DA cannot approve item 22. Item 23 is the disaster management plan. When a disaster happens, residents do not see the organograms of the city. They see whether someone arrives when they call and whether the help that arrives, arrives in time."},{"start":29010,"end":29016,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The first responder at the scene needs to know where his support is coming from and whether the information they've"},{"start":29016,"end":29018,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Benjamin,"},{"start":29018,"end":29019,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":29019,"end":29043,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"just hold on, please. Councillor Marais, are you calling a point of order on your councillor? Councillor Marais, Stewart Marais, your hand is up. Okay, Councillor, continue. His hand is up and he's not responding. Continue, Councillor Benjamin."},{"start":29043,"end":29073,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Um the first responders must know where their support comes from, that the information they get is reliable and that the decisions they make are backed up. The DA supports a proper resourced disaster management capacity, strong early response and communities that are prepared for risk. Council is asked to approve an updated plan, support stronger capacities at a disaster management center"},{"start":29073,"end":29103,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and endorse a governance model across all seven regions and a structure with three sub-centers. The council needs to know what it will take to make this proposed structure work. The annexure proposes 23 additional posts. It also recommends the location of the disaster management function in the city manager's office. Yet, the report again shows no financial implication."},{"start":29103,"end":29134,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So I'm not sure how we are funding 23 positions and the moving of an entire disaster management function to the city manager's office. Answers is a correction we can make today in council, Madam Speaker, or if we get this wrong, it becomes a life that we cannot bring back tomorrow. The plan also points towards a level two plan and has an independent risk and voluntary vulnerability assessment, my apologies."},{"start":29134,"end":29169,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Look, the work needs a clear timetable and meaningful input from those affected, being the residents on the ground through the ward councillors, but the future does not remove the need to explain today's staffing, funding and organizational proposals. Madam Speaker, this plan may offer a welcome headline, it needs to be grounded in realism and financial stability to make it sustainable when our residents find themselves at their most vulnerable."},{"start":29169,"end":29199,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Our duty is to test whether this progress is real. We cannot rubber-stamp a plan because it feeds positive or gives a good impression to our residents. Transparency is essential when council is making decisions that affect our residents' lives. Item 23 has no costed staffing and implementation plan, a clear explanation of a proposed organizational changes,"},{"start":29199,"end":29222,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a timetable for the level two assessment and recommendations stating precisely what council is asked to approve. We need to make decisions with our eyes open, because again it will cost our residents its their lives. Madam Speaker, as item 23 currently stands, the Democratic Alliance cannot approve. I thank you."},{"start":29222,"end":29232,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Benjamin. Councillor Nair."},{"start":29232,"end":29262,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings, Madam Speaker, greetings to the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Executive Mayor, members of the Mayoral Committee, uh City Manager and his officials, fellow councillors and the residents of the City of Joburg. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak today on the item 21, 22 and 23, the City of Johannesburg disaster management volunteer policy. Purpose to seek council's approval on the disaster management volunteer policy, including"},{"start":29262,"end":29292,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"its establishment under the disaster operations sub-center and inclusion in the institutional review of the disaster management center hierarchy. The City of Johannesburg disaster management volunteer policy is therefore developed to institutionalize volunteerism as a strategic municipal resource, aligned with national legislation and international best practices and to address existing informal operational gaps in volunteer coordination and management. Now, why is this policy important? The city currently"},{"start":29292,"end":29322,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"does not have a formal structure disaster management volunteer system, despite the national government uh national legislation providing for volunteer units. The policy acknowledges gaps such as fragmented volunteer programs, poor coordination, insufficient training, lack of monitoring systems and limited management of spontaneous volunteers. So this policy aims to strengthen the city's ability to respond to disasters such as fires, floods,"},{"start":29322,"end":29352,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"gas explosions, storms, hazardous incidents and the continuous zama-zama threat that is being created. How does this policy benefit the city? The policy benefits the City of Johannesburg in the following ways: Increased disaster preparedness and response capacity across all seven regions, creates a trained pool of volunteers that can be mobilized quickly during emergencies, promotes community participation and active citizenship,"},{"start":29352,"end":29382,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"supports safer communities and aligns with the city's GDS 2040 objectives, provides skills development opportunities and may improve employment for the residents who participate in structured training programs. Now, all well and said and this is beautiful and I think this that is a disaster program is needed in the city and a volunteer program is needed in the city, because the question I pose to every one of us is what happens tomorrow, God forbid, that we do have a natural disaster"},{"start":29382,"end":29412,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"or unnatural disaster, but a massive disaster? The City of Johannesburg and especially the wards that run along the Main Reef, we're all sitting on mines, so we have a gap underneath us which at any one time due to the illegal mining that's going on, we could have explosions. I just want to notify the council that two weeks ago we had a gas explosion in Fordsburg. It wasn't massive, but it was a gas explosion that uh the emergency services and even the chief himself came out."},{"start":29412,"end":29442,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So the definite concern and these things could happen. So yes, we need the volunteers and this should have been done a long time ago, but never late uh better late than never. The question here and I know lots of times I think we've been accused as ANC councillors that we just rubber-stamp decisions, that we are just to vote. Well, unfortunately today I'm going to be different. Madam Speaker, the big, big concern, we're in a city where we have financial,"},{"start":29442,"end":29472,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a big financial problem. How then can they send a report to us which says no financial implications? The report and its annexure does not provide any information about operational costs, budgeting as well as resourcing. That's the one big thing. The second thing is implementation, implementation and enforcement. You know we bring great policies, our bylaws are great, but how much of implementation of our bylaws do we have? Because if"},{"start":29472,"end":29503,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"our bylaws are being implemented and enforced, we won't have the situation we have, especially in the inner city wards and sad, Madam Speaker, I don't know when last you've been to Ward 58. Yoh, I've been begging and begging and I'm getting no response, but Ward 58 is on total downgrade and it all comes down to lack of bylaw enforcement, lack of law and order in my ward. With that said, Madam Speaker, I want to go onto item 22: Recommendations for the approval of the City of Johannesburg Disaster Management"},{"start":29503,"end":29533,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Policy Framework. The report acknowledges that the city has historically focused mainly on responding after disasters occur. The policy seeks to change this by prioritizing prevention, mitigation, preparedness, early warning systems and resilient infrastructure. This is particularly important, because the city faces increasing risks linked to rapid urbanization, climate change, aging infrastructure, vandalism and socio-economic inequality. Illegal mining"},{"start":29533,"end":29563,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"has become another major, major risk. Identified risks including flash floods, fires, infrastructure collapse, heatwaves, illegal electricity connections, disaster outbreaks, water insecurity and sinkholes. From the 2027/2028 financial year, departments and entities must incorporate disaster management action plan indicators into their SDBIPs and business plans. They will be expected to conduct disaster risk assessments,"},{"start":29563,"end":29594,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"identify map risks in vulnerable communities, develop disaster risk reduction plans, prepare funded contingency plans, develop emergency response, recovery and business continuity plans, appoint a disaster management focal person, submit disaster-related information to the disaster management center. The council reports none under financial implications. However, the same report recommends that the city budget for a disaster management fund in line with"},{"start":29594,"end":29625,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the 0.5% threshold applicable to metropolitan municipalities. This, Madam Speaker, is the big, big concern. We're bringing policies through and stating that there is no financial implication, but we all know nothing in this world happens without money, so we have to have money to fund these policies. The annexure also states that implementation will require substantial startup and operational resources, including disaster management centers and sub-centers, specialized and"},{"start":29625,"end":29655,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"technical personnel, early warning and communication systems, risk assessments and GIS mapping, training stimulation and public awareness programs, funded contingency plans, emergency response, relief, recovery and rehabilitation. Madam Speaker, these are the risks that we face and once again I need to reiterate the importance of having finances for the policy. Item 23: Review of the 2024 disaster management"},{"start":29655,"end":29685,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"level one plan. Reports request the approval of four matters: Approve the reviewed level one disaster management plan, support the further capacitation of the disaster management center, endorse a regional governance model covering all seven administrative regions, endorse a three sub-center structure comprising disaster operations, communication and training functions. According to the report, the city is not yet fully compliant with the functionality requirements."},{"start":29685,"end":29715,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"National Treasury functional standard FD 2.1 requires an appointed head of the disaster management center, an updated disaster management plan, submission of an annual report or plan to the national disaster management center. The report states that the city currently complies with only two of the three requirements, namely the updated plan and annual submissions. The outstanding concern is the formal appointment of the head of the center. Councillors"},{"start":29715,"end":29745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"should request a clear deadline and process for achieving these compliance. Madam Speaker, while I'm on that point, you know, I'm a councillor who's coming on the first term and I was amazed with emergency services and uh our security cluster that we've had so many acting positions. Now, my point is we want to introduce a new policy. We need to have a person to head this policy and the person uh I believe it's Miss Vicky Mayatela is still in an acting position. So when are we going"},{"start":29745,"end":29775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to give honor our leaders that have been there and I think they're doing a fairly good job under a lot of stress and pressure? When are we going to give them the chance to be permanent so that they can leave their footprint on the department? When we have acting positions, people are just there. They're afraid sometimes to take decisions or they will just pull that six months as a acting position and not really get things done. So we need these positions, especially that is Public Safety and is one of the most important aspects of a person's life, that we should take this"},{"start":29775,"end":29805,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"seriously and we should firstly sort out these positions before we even think of going down the road with these uh new policies. The current structure was approved in 2015 is described as no longer suitable for the city's increasing vulnerabilities and more complex disaster risk environment. The attached annexure identifies unclear reporting lines, fragmented coordination, inadequate strategic oversight and insufficient institutional capacity. According to the annexure provided, a reverse structure requiring approximately"},{"start":29805,"end":29836,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"23 additional posts, including an executive head, additional directors, deputy directors, disaster management officers, GIS capacity and administrative support. However, the main report states there are no financial implications. The annexure states itself that implementation requires operational and capital resources and that disaster risk management must be incorporated into a department and entity budgets. Once again, I reiterate,"},{"start":29836,"end":29870,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the biggest, biggest concern here is that they have not given us any finances on how is this going to be implemented. Madam Speaker, I want to round up. I know it's late and everybody wants to go, but I need to address one issue and the issue of another disaster that I believe inner city wards, could be happening elsewhere, but most inner city wards is facing is that if we have extraordinary rain, and I'm going to speak for my ward, if I have heavy rain for a week, lots of suburbs in my ward will be underwater, will be flooded,"},{"start":29870,"end":29902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and the same goes for other inner city and wards that are bordering the inner city. Madam Speaker, I want to appeal to you and the Mayoral Committee that some pressure be put on JRA to engage the MMC for JRA that some work be done, especially in Ward 58. Ward 58 has been so neglected when it comes to the roads, the drains, the sewage and the stormwater system and we are sitting in a disaster and I have to make this public statement that in the event, God forbid, it happens,"},{"start":29902,"end":29934,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the residents of Ward 58 will know that I have spoken to every to the highest authorities in the city about the drain situation in Ward 58. With that said, Madam Speaker, I think we as the ANC we're going to abstain on this one. This report needs to go back to uh Emergency Services, to Public Safety and they need to come up with an intense report and the most important thing is can we as a city afford it, as much as I want to say this and I've been involved in civic uh"},{"start":29934,"end":29964,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"special safety for long, long years that we need a policy like this. I want to give some advice to the department as I finish off. Most community policing forum structures that are implemented in most police stations in the country are effective and work well. Those volunteers are ready for your training. So before you look at long policies, what I would advise the executive head of this department is start getting involved with your community policing forums. I am a former chair of the Brixton Policing Forum and while I was there, my patrollers"},{"start":29964,"end":29993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"were trained in firefighting, they were trained in uh traffic duty, they were trained in traffic control, a lot of them did level one and two of first aid. So the EMS can take a suggestion from me is that if we want to start anything without minimal cost is to get involved with this community policing forums and enhance those structures. With that said, Madam Speaker, I thank you and thank everyone for listening to me. Thank you. Bye, salaam."},{"start":29993,"end":30031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nair. Um MMC Koma. MMC Koma. MMC Koma. If not, is there an MMC that can close the items?"},{"start":30031,"end":30049,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Makhafola, are you here? Councillor Mnisi, are you here? MMC Mabaso. MMC Mgcina."},{"start":30049,"end":30052,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm in the meeting, Speaker."},{"start":30052,"end":30062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you close this item for us, because I don't hear Councillor Koma responding to me."},{"start":30062,"end":30093,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Um I think the comments from councillors and concerns have been noted, Speaker. Um matters will then be escalated to the MMC um so that he responds to councillors. Uh, but I think, Speaker, because there are other structures that can also be utilized uh to raise matters uh for the MMC's consideration,"},{"start":30093,"end":30101,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but also maybe to provide clarity on certain issues that have been ventilated in the meeting, uh, but we will request that"},{"start":30101,"end":30113,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh council approve this report, uh Speaker."},{"start":30113,"end":30119,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Christians, we've closed the item. Councillor Christians."},{"start":30119,"end":30123,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I had my hand up. Madam Speaker, I had my hand up."},{"start":30123,"end":30145,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I cannot see your hand until someone told me that your hand is up. I do not have a gadget in front of me. I depend on the screen and I depend on people that are telling me and they all told me your hand is up now. Councillor Alex."},{"start":30145,"end":30162,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I was raising a point of order that two of the biggest parties in this council have raised the issue of an incomplete report and without the actual MMC being here, can this item please be withdrawn by the Leader of Executive Business? Thank you. That's what I was raising my hand for. Thank you."},{"start":30162,"end":30194,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can't hear you and the item has been closed and remember when a MMC of that specific department is not there, we ask another MMC to close it. And we've been doing that like forever since I came into the chamber 2016. Even today we did it. Okay. Um item 21, recommendations page 21.9,"},{"start":30194,"end":30213,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"item 22, recommendations 22.13, item 23 on pages 23.6 to 23.7. Let's hear what political parties are saying. ACDP, are you still three?"},{"start":30213,"end":30217,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Still three and we note the report. Thank you, Madam."},{"start":30217,"end":30221,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Freedom Front Plus, are you still four?"},{"start":30221,"end":30229,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still four and we abstain as requested by the ANC speaker, we abstain with them."},{"start":30229,"end":30238,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. GOOD. GOOD, are you still around and how do you vote?"},{"start":30238,"end":30243,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm still around, Madam Speaker, abstain."},{"start":30243,"end":30256,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM, are you around and how do you vote? UIM, are you around and how do you vote?"},{"start":30256,"end":30261,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, yes and the UIM abstain."},{"start":30261,"end":30279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM, are you around and how do you vote? Al Jama-ah, are you still three and how do you vote?"},{"start":30279,"end":30283,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we're three. Uh we abstain. Thanks."},{"start":30283,"end":30286,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE, are you around and how do you vote?"},{"start":30286,"end":30290,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh abstain, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":30290,"end":30296,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC, are you around and how do you vote?"},{"start":30296,"end":30301,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh I'm still around, Madam Speaker. We vote yes."},{"start":30301,"end":30302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Aiyai!"},{"start":30302,"end":30303,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Sorry, yes."},{"start":30303,"end":30316,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"When did you change parties? AHC, are you around and how do you vote? Okay. AIC, how"},{"start":30316,"end":30317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":30317,"end":30318,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":30318,"end":30319,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":30319,"end":30321,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":30321,"end":30324,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I support you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":30324,"end":30331,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's that? Mpolobosho, thank you, Mpolobosho. AIC, how do you vote?"},{"start":30331,"end":30335,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We vote yes, Madam Speaker, we support the item."},{"start":30335,"end":30339,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP, how do you vote?"},{"start":30339,"end":30341,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We support the item, Speaker."},{"start":30341,"end":30345,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"How many are you?"},{"start":30345,"end":30347,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still six."},{"start":30347,"end":30354,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are still six, okay. PA, how many are you and how do you vote?"},{"start":30354,"end":30359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Madam Speaker, we are 10 currently and we vote yes."},{"start":30359,"end":30363,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. EFF."},{"start":30363,"end":30378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF, we're 17 now. We're voting yes."},{"start":30378,"end":30395,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Madam Speaker, ATM, we vote yes."},{"start":30395,"end":30399,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is the Speaker still around?"},{"start":30399,"end":30403,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, Speaker's gone silent."},{"start":30403,"end":30408,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, she has gone silent, like seriously."},{"start":30408,"end":30412,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we can't hear you. We see your mouth moving, but we cannot hear you."},{"start":30412,"end":30417,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Jikisa lento le, itshe le elihlezi la ehlombe."},{"start":30417,"end":30419,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Jikisa lento."},{"start":30419,"end":30421,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, don't"},{"start":30421,"end":30422,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"jikisa lento,"},{"start":30422,"end":30445,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"you must just talk so that we can hear that you're still around."},{"start":30445,"end":30458,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Chamber. We are waiting, they're unmuting the chamber so we can talk."},{"start":30458,"end":30460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We can hear you now, Speaker."},{"start":30460,"end":30461,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We can hear you now."},{"start":30461,"end":30462,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker."},{"start":30462,"end":30473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You know, they went to unmute me upstairs. ActionSA, is that fabulous 25 here and how are you voting?"},{"start":30473,"end":30476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we're abstaining. Thank you."},{"start":30476,"end":30480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. DA."},{"start":30480,"end":30488,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh we are still 55 and uh we reject this item. Thank you."},{"start":30488,"end":30491,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":30491,"end":30497,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh ANC, we are supporting the item, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":30497,"end":30503,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"How many are you?"},{"start":30503,"end":30505,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 69, uh Madam Speaker."},{"start":30505,"end":30506,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are 69, okay."},{"start":30506,"end":30507,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes."},{"start":30507,"end":30517,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh can I get a ActionSA, are you still 25?"},{"start":30517,"end":30519,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're yes, Speaker."},{"start":30519,"end":30544,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You're yes. Okay, you are yes, 25. Right. Um UDM. Okay. Can I quickly just get the calculations, because some of you said no and some of you said yes and some of you said reject uh yeah, and abstain. Let's just get the numbers, legal."},{"start":30544,"end":30549,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker. Speaker, did we get ATM?"},{"start":30549,"end":30550,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You said yes."},{"start":30550,"end":30552,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Okay, sure, sure, sure."},{"start":30552,"end":30583,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, sure, sure, sure. I got it. Okay, 34 abstained, 55 said no, 109 said yes. Okay. Um colleagues, we have seven items and two motions, so if we speak faster, we will go quicker."},{"start":30583,"end":30589,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right? SCC, let's go, but we are doing very well."},{"start":30589,"end":30599,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on item 24 and that is the request for approval of the reviewed social burial policy for the Department of Social Development."},{"start":30599,"end":30600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor"},{"start":30600,"end":30606,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Harris."},{"start":30606,"end":30623,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm sure you can hear me. Councillor Harris? Okay, let's go to the next one. Councillor Ntoele? Let's go to the next one."},{"start":30623,"end":30627,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, I'm back. Sorry."},{"start":30627,"end":30630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you speak, Councillor? Item 24."},{"start":30630,"end":30658,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Thank you so much, Madam Speaker, for indulging me. Um, the ACDP rises to speak to this item in support of indigent burial policy. I think this is one of the most heartwarming policies that the has been tabled today, because really it does speak to uh people who are desperate in times of the most severe uh trial."},{"start":30658,"end":30689,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What I'm glad to see, Madam Speaker, is that the what is included in the policy now is the reopening of the graves and the provision of uh family cars. What I don't see in the policy, though, is the uh provision of vegetables uh and and food because I think that's also a a an expense item that the uh families would really love to to um to make use of or to receive."},{"start":30689,"end":30712,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"As far as the application entry point is concerned, um it the policy hasn't changed from having the ward councillors do that and the and the ward administrators give a letter. But, it would be good if the policy would be uh would consider including the PR councillors in this process as well. Not that we want to usurp the powers of the ward councillors,"},{"start":30712,"end":30740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but uh I think it makes it so much easier for those who are destitute to shorten this uh red tape when they walk into that maze of bureaucracy to try and and get a uh an indigent burial. But, on the whole, we are we are really um pleased about this policy. I think it really goes a long way to show that the city is really um a city that cares,"},{"start":30740,"end":30767,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and we trust that those that are implementing the policy will be so much more humane and that they will remove all of the various steps that the indigent need to uh take to uh receive this the benefit of this policy. But, I want to just express my sincere thanks to the uh originators of this policy. I think it is really a sign of humanity. Thank you so much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":30767,"end":30786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Harris. Um, Councillor Ntoele, is are you available or not? Okay, let's move. Councillor Makaula, ANC?"},{"start":30786,"end":30800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker, Councillor Makaula I'll stand on. It's Councillor Hlatshwayo here. Honourable Speaker, Executive Mayor Am I audible uh Speaker?"},{"start":30800,"end":30803,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, you are ma'am."},{"start":30803,"end":30821,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh I'm Honourable Speaker, Executive Mayor, Deputy Executive Mayor, Members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors and the most important, residents of the City of Johannesburg, I rise in item 24 and 25."},{"start":30821,"end":30824,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No Councillor, only 24. Councillor, only 24."},{"start":30824,"end":30855,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 24. Yes, 24. We request the approval of of the important policy, namely to review the Social Burial and uh to review the Social Burial Policy, Organizational Empowerment Policy, both of the Department of Social Development."},{"start":30855,"end":30883,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Today, we are normally considering an administrative policy. We are deciding how this city respond when one of its most vulnerable families faces the final and most painful duty of laying of their loved ones to rest. Death does not wait for payday, grief does not consider one's financial position,"},{"start":30883,"end":30915,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and dignity should never depend on the balance one's one's bank account. The draft policy tells us that approximately 50% Johannesburg residents live below the poverty line. For this, the importance the policy recognizes that dignity is not only about the"},{"start":30915,"end":30945,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"what is provided, but also about how it's provided. It requires the consideration of religious and cultural practice and places obligation on contracted undertaking to maintain confidentiality and uphold dignity throughout the burial process. Speaker, one of the most compassionate provision in the additional support offered to a child-headed household."},{"start":30945,"end":30975,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The policy provides to grave closer and grave marker in these cases. This means that a child who has already experienced the the trauma of losing a parent or a caregiver will not also expected carry the full practical of the financial burden of closing a grave. It means that vulnerability is met with a humanity and that grief is met with a support."},{"start":30975,"end":31005,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The revised policy propose increasingly annual social burial threshold from 250 cases under the 2010 policy to 500 cases. It also process that Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo make provision to make for make to 500 burial sites annual at a 50% discount on the application tariff subject to the availability of the required budget."},{"start":31005,"end":31028,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, let us adopt the policy with a compassion. Let us fund responsible. Let us monitor it carefully, and above all, let us implement in a manner that gives a real meaning to the promise of the dignity. Speaker, as the ANC, we'll ask the house to adopt the policy."},{"start":31028,"end":31037,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. Can I have MMC Makhafola?"},{"start":31037,"end":31065,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker, thank you very much. MMC has requested that I respond on her behalf. Eh Speaker, we we appreciate eh that um all the speakers have um appreciated the work eh MMC Makhafola in Social Development has done eh in reviewing this policy. And I think it was imperative for us to align eh the policy um with the"},{"start":31065,"end":31086,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"current circumstances and dynamics that our people continues to face eh during the difficult times. Um we really request that all caucuses support eh this eh eh policy eh for for effective implementation eh by Social Development. Thank you very much."},{"start":31086,"end":31097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, um MMC Mabaso. The recommendations are on 25.4. ACDP?"},{"start":31097,"end":31100,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, a big yes ma'am Madam Speaker."},{"start":31100,"end":31103,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And you are three, neh?"},{"start":31103,"end":31106,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still three, yes."},{"start":31106,"end":31108,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus?"},{"start":31108,"end":31112,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still four. Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31112,"end":31114,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD?"},{"start":31114,"end":31116,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31116,"end":31126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM? UIM?"},{"start":31126,"end":31128,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31128,"end":31132,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM?"},{"start":31132,"end":31134,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31134,"end":31139,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah?"},{"start":31139,"end":31141,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31141,"end":31143,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":31143,"end":31146,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31146,"end":31150,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":31150,"end":31152,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31152,"end":31155,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":31155,"end":31159,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still 100%, and we say yes to the item, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31159,"end":31162,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":31162,"end":31167,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh we say yes to the item, and we are still six."},{"start":31167,"end":31170,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":31170,"end":31174,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still 10, and we say yes to the item."},{"start":31174,"end":31178,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh EFF? Are you 16 now, EFF?"},{"start":31178,"end":31184,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We Uh what? We're 17, Ma'am Speaker, and then we see we are saying yes to the item."},{"start":31184,"end":31186,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And how many are you?"},{"start":31186,"end":31188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"17."},{"start":31188,"end":31191,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ActionSA?"},{"start":31191,"end":31197,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now 20, Speaker, and we're saying yes to the item. Thank you."},{"start":31197,"end":31199,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":31199,"end":31204,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh still the same number, and we say yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":31204,"end":31207,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC?"},{"start":31207,"end":31210,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31210,"end":31218,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. So, we have This one is through, neh? Thank you so much. Next item, STC."},{"start":31218,"end":31229,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We proceed with item 25, and that is a request for approval of the reviewed Non-governmental Organization Empowerment Policy for the Department of Social Development."},{"start":31229,"end":31236,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Y. Zigebe?"},{"start":31236,"end":31258,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Has the UDM left? One, two, three, four. Councillor B. Jacobs? One, two,"},{"start":31258,"end":31292,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank Thank you, Speaker. I rise I virtually rise to speak on item 25. Madam Speaker, I'd just like to say that this issue is not about whether NGOs have a role to play in supporting vulnerable residents because they absolutely do. Many organizations provide services that are essential to communities, particularly where government uh is failing residents or assistance are non-existent. But because we are dealing with vulnerable residents and public money, we have to get the policy right."},{"start":31292,"end":31320,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The city's own financial report, item 18, which was just discussed, gives us an important context. Social Development recorded capital expenditure of approximately 24 million against a 42 million budget, that's about 57%. Madam Speaker, I'm not saying that this means Social Development failed to spend the budget, but it's because the city has financial cash flow issues."},{"start":31320,"end":31349,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The broader financial position of the city tells us that the cash flow constraints are a significant factor. This is therefore not something simply a department spending problem, it's a city-wide financial management issue, and that makes the proposed NGO policy even more important. If we're going to establish a framework through which city may support NGOs, we need to know that the framework is financially sustainable,"},{"start":31349,"end":31382,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"properly governed, and capable of demonstrating exactly where the money is going and the outcomes it's purchasing. Also, Madam Speaker, due process really, really matters. This policy has not received the level of scrutiny that a policy of this nature requires. A policy affecting social development, vulnerable communities, and the allocation of public resources should not just simply quickly move through the system without proper consideration, you know, by the relevant oversight structures."},{"start":31382,"end":31410,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, referral for proper scrutiny on this is not opposition to the NGOs. It is actually about protecting the integrity of the NGO sector and protecting vulnerable residents from a system that has not been sufficiently scrutinized. It is also protecting the city from entering into financial commitments without first properly establishing the governance"},{"start":31410,"end":31441,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and affordability framework around those commitments. The appropriate course is for this policy to go through the proper legislative processes, for the outstanding issues to be addressed, and for the matter to be returned properly interrogated with accountable framework. Madam Speaker, Councillor Ricky Nair, an ANC councillor, hit the nail on the head. Policies are being approved with no financial backing or implementation plans."},{"start":31441,"end":31470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Unquote. Yet, the ANC, EFF, and PA are steamrolling and agreeing to policies left, right, and center, like a bull in a china shop, disregarding the residents, disregarding the city finances, and just going completely rogue. You know, we owe vulnerable residents better than a policy that is rushed through without sufficient scrutiny, and we owe"},{"start":31470,"end":31501,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"taxpayers a system a system where every rand allocated to an NGO can be accounted for. This policy needs to go to the Section 79 Committee for proper scrutiny and to also follow due process. Madam Speaker, when one of the ANC's own speak against their policies, this is saying something. And if the information and the financial background doesn't give the EFF, PA, and ANC"},{"start":31501,"end":31530,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"enough information, at least listen to one of your own. You know? At the end of the day, we are causing more harm, the EFF, ANC, and PA, by sticking together like glue just so that you can bulldoze your way through things, and the residents suffer at the end of the day. To the residents, there is an alternative, and that is Helen Zille and the DA blue machine."},{"start":31530,"end":31544,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Make your mark so that you have accountable governance uh and not just a talk shop. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31544,"end":31563,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Ntoele is not here. Councillor Makaula is not here. Can we go straight to the MMC Mabaso?"},{"start":31563,"end":31593,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Eh, thank you very much, eh Speaker. Um I think, Speaker, it's important to note that eh this is a review um of a policy that was approved um in 20 in 2010. It's not a new policy, eh Speaker. But secondly, I think, Speaker, it's also important eh that, you know, when we read reports, um we must not read them in isolation eh to"},{"start":31593,"end":31622,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the recommendations and the financial implications, and also communications and policy implications because it gets to give eh, you know, an appreciation um on on how the policy will guide the implementation the implementation process of it. Because, Speaker, if you look at the financial implications in the policy, you know, it does outline"},{"start":31622,"end":31652,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that the implementation will be in line with what is prescribed um in the MFMA. So, meaning that there will not be any deviation eh, you know, from the financial from the Municipal Financial Management Act. Eh so, I think it's important that we we we take that into cognizance, eh Speaker. But, eh secondly, Speaker, it's also important, and I appreciate that when the councillor made um"},{"start":31652,"end":31682,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the presentation, he he he made an emphasis on the important of on the importance of supporting the NGOs because they are able to perform certain functions in assisting government in responding to some of the challenges that our residents are facing. And I think that's the spirit, Speaker, eh that we need to accept this policy with because for us to support"},{"start":31682,"end":31712,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the NGOs as the City of Johannesburg, it does assist us um, you know, in the instances where we are unable to provide certain services to our residents, and you get to have NGOs eh coming in eh, you know, to provide those particular assistance to our residents. But also, Speaker, the implementation of the policies in the City of Johannesburg, you know, the the process is is guided. It's legislated. The financial implications,"},{"start":31712,"end":31741,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the expenditure, and the funding that is appropriated to policy implementations as well, it's also guided, Speaker, eh through the MFMA. So, there is nothing that is done outside the processes and the legislations as prescribed in all the legislations that governs um the local sphere eh of government. So, I will request that Speaker that we approve this report, eh Speaker, because it it it it assists"},{"start":31741,"end":31771,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"us to address some of the gaps that we had identified in the policy because the policy that we've been working on in the city was outdated, and it was unable to respond and address some of the current circumstances that we are facing, especially in working with NGOs and also in providing support in the NGOs. So, I will request that this council be this council approve this policy, eh Speaker, so that Social Development can continue, you know,"},{"start":31771,"end":31780,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"working with the NGOs, but also providing the necessary support to all the NGOs that we've been working with in the City of Johannesburg."},{"start":31780,"end":31854,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, uh MMC Mabaso. Uh colleagues, recommendations on page 25.4. Can we hear how we agree? ACDP"},{"start":31854,"end":31856,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":31856,"end":31860,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah? COPE?"},{"start":31860,"end":31863,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":31863,"end":31867,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":31867,"end":31869,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31869,"end":31872,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":31872,"end":31875,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":31875,"end":31877,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":31877,"end":31880,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker, and we are still six."},{"start":31880,"end":31884,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":31884,"end":31890,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, MMC Kunene just joined again, so we are 11, and yes."},{"start":31890,"end":31893,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. EFF?"},{"start":31893,"end":31895,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31895,"end":31899,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you still 17?"},{"start":31899,"end":31901,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we still are 17."},{"start":31901,"end":31902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Action ActionSA?"},{"start":31902,"end":31905,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":31905,"end":31908,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA?"},{"start":31908,"end":31912,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um it's no from us, uh Madam Speaker, thank you."},{"start":31912,"end":31915,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ANC?"},{"start":31915,"end":31919,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":31919,"end":31926,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, it's only the DA that says no. Item carried. Let's go to the next item."},{"start":31926,"end":31939,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on item 28, and that is a report on public consultation for proposed renamings to honor Don Mattera and local icons."},{"start":31939,"end":31999,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Councillor B. Nkwanyana Nkwanyana from the DA. One, two, three, four, gone. EFF, Raholane, Councillor W. Raholane. One, two, three, four, gone. ANC, Councillor S. Mashinini. One, two, three, I am audible. Three, four,"},{"start":31999,"end":32001,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker!"},{"start":32001,"end":32004,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes? Who is that?"},{"start":32004,"end":32011,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"William Raholane, I've got a problem with a It's William Raholane, Speaker."},{"start":32011,"end":32014,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Raholane, can you come on and speak? Can you speak?"},{"start":32014,"end":32043,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Thank you. Thank you, Speaker. Greetings, Speaker, EFF Caucus Leader, Chief Whip, and EFF Councillors. I rise on item number 28, Report on Public Consultation for Proposed Renaming to Honor Don Mattera and Local Icons. Speaker, the EFF approaches this report from a clear principle."},{"start":32043,"end":32073,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Transforming Johannesburg must include transforming the public memory and identity of our city. Our streets and public facilities must recognize the people whose struggles, sacrifices, and contribution shaped our communities. The report proposes the report proposes honoring Don Mattera through Main Street in Eldorado Park and the Westbury Recreation Center,"},{"start":32073,"end":32105,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Donny Philander through Marvalene Sports Ground, and Nathaniel Julies through the renaming of Nickel Crescent. These proposals are consistent with the EFF commitment to restoring African history, heritage, and identity in our community. Importantly, this was subjected to public participation. The city received 216 comments, and of the 125 submissions where a clear position was expressed,"},{"start":32105,"end":32133,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"85 supported the proposed renaming, while 40 objected. But Speaker, we must not ignore another message from residents. The report itself acknowledges that many social media comments raised concern about service delivery. The EFF rejects the false choice between dignity and service delivery. We can honor our heroes while fixing roads,"},{"start":32133,"end":32164,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"providing reliable water, collecting refuse, and maintaining community facilities. The EFF therefore supports the recommendations of this report, including the proposed renaming. However, we insist that symbolic transformation must go hand in hand with the material transformation promised in the EFF Local Government Manifesto. Our streets must tell our history, while our municipality delivers the future of our people deserve."},{"start":32164,"end":32166,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":32166,"end":32177,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Raholane. Councillor Mashinini, S, from the ANC."},{"start":32177,"end":32210,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh thank you, Speaker. Uh greetings to the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor, and all councillors. Um so please forgive me. Speaker, these reports speak to something deeper than the names of the roads, buildings, or signs. They speak to dignity, identity, and history, belonging, history and belonging. Firstly, we ask to approve the outcome of the public participation process and renaming of the public facility and the street in honor of Don Mattera."},{"start":32210,"end":32242,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Let Let Let me start here. Don Mattera's life reminds us that transformation is possible. From a knife of a gangster to a pen of a poet, to a journalist, activist, his journey tells us that our past does not have to determine our future. That's why, you know, renaming after the facility after Don Mattera is not just merely uh putting a name on a sign. It tells a story of resilience, transformation, and sign. It speaks especially to young people, reminding them that they can transform their"},{"start":32242,"end":32269,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"circumstances and become a voice that shapes society. By supporting this item, we preserve local history, recognize the community heroes and heroines that the future generation know the names and stories of those who contributed to social and cultural and sports. Then we Then Speaker, the ANC says we note the report and we seek for approval."},{"start":32269,"end":32279,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Mashinini. MMC Amad."},{"start":32279,"end":32300,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Um I would like to pass my greetings to the Executive Mayor, the DEM, MMCs, uh and councillors. I would like council to approve this report, Speaker, and I would also like to wish them well for their endeavor into the elections. Thank you."},{"start":32300,"end":32326,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. That's item 28. Uh recommendations are on page 28.6. Can we hear? ANC, how do you vote? African National Congress. ACDP?"},{"start":32326,"end":32330,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're voting yes, Madam Speaker. Sorry."},{"start":32330,"end":32334,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, ANC says yes. DA?"},{"start":32334,"end":32337,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP says yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32337,"end":32340,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, but I'm going the other way. It's fine. DA?"},{"start":32340,"end":32342,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, sorry. All right."},{"start":32342,"end":32346,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA, we abstain on this one."},{"start":32346,"end":32350,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA?"},{"start":32350,"end":32352,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA votes yes, Speaker."},{"start":32352,"end":32355,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF?"},{"start":32355,"end":32358,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We vote yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32358,"end":32361,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA?"},{"start":32361,"end":32363,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32363,"end":32366,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP?"},{"start":32366,"end":32369,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32369,"end":32372,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC?"},{"start":32372,"end":32374,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32374,"end":32378,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC?"},{"start":32378,"end":32380,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32380,"end":32383,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE?"},{"start":32383,"end":32385,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32385,"end":32397,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah? ATM?"},{"start":32397,"end":32400,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh we vote in support."},{"start":32400,"end":32401,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":32401,"end":32403,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":32403,"end":32406,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32406,"end":32409,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":32409,"end":32411,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32411,"end":32414,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":32414,"end":32418,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32418,"end":32421,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":32421,"end":32424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker. No."},{"start":32424,"end":32427,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ACDP."},{"start":32427,"end":32430,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker. Yes."},{"start":32430,"end":32432,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes. Yes, ne?"},{"start":32432,"end":32437,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah, are you here? And how do you vote?"},{"start":32437,"end":32441,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32441,"end":32458,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Thank you, colleagues. I think it's carried because we only had DA and Freedom Front Plus. One abstained and one said no. Yeah. Okay. Next item."},{"start":32458,"end":32465,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item 29 is the naming of unnamed streets in Alexandra, Ward 75, in Region E."},{"start":32465,"end":32474,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um Councillor B. Nkwanyana is not here. Councillor Raholane."},{"start":32474,"end":32504,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. I rise on item 29, Naming of Unnamed Streets in Alexandra, Ward 75, Region E. Speaker, the EFF welcomes the intention behind this report because in Alexandra, an address is not a luxury. It is part of the basic infrastructure required for people to participate fully in the city."},{"start":32504,"end":32530,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report itself acknowledges that unnamed streets affect access to emergency services, policing, utilities, municipal billing, postal services, FICA and RICA processes, the valuation roll, or the valuation roll, and even the voters' roll. This is therefore not simply about putting names on the street"},{"start":32530,"end":32560,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"sign. It is about dignity, access to service, and properly integrating historically marginalised communities into the administration of Johannesburg. This speaks directly to the EFF's 2026 local government manifesto, which places dignity, reliable basic services, functioning municipal infrastructure, and responsive local government"},{"start":32560,"end":32590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"at the center of transforming our communities. Speaker, we also note that residents were consulted and expressed a preference for streets to recognize local heroes and heroines. The EFF supports communities having a meaningful voice in preserving their own history and identity. However, Speaker, the report also exposes the scale of challenge."},{"start":32590,"end":32620,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It estimates an enormous backlog of unnamed streets across Johannesburg, while this report deals with only 12 streets in Ward 75, with implementation costs estimated at 900,000. The EFF therefore supports the recommendations to approve the naming process and the public consultation undertaken in Ward 75,"},{"start":32620,"end":32650,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"but we insist that this must not remain an isolated intervention. The city must develop a systematic program to eliminate the backlog of unnamed streets, particularly in townships and historically neglected communities. Speaker, Alexandra residents deserve more than recognition on a map. They deserve a city that recognizes their dignity through reliable services"},{"start":32650,"end":32656,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and functioning infrastructure. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":32656,"end":32665,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Mashinini from the ANC."},{"start":32665,"end":32672,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. The ANC seeks for approval for these names. We agree with them. Thanks, Speaker."},{"start":32672,"end":32676,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. MMC Amad."},{"start":32676,"end":32683,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker, once more. Um we request council to approve. Thank you."},{"start":32683,"end":32695,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. The recommendations are on page 29.4. Let's hear how we vote. ACDP."},{"start":32695,"end":32699,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh yes, we vote. We agree with it. Thank you."},{"start":32699,"end":32705,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":32705,"end":32713,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hallelujah, new streets, new names. Yes, Madam Speaker, yes."},{"start":32713,"end":32715,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":32715,"end":32717,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32717,"end":32720,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":32720,"end":32722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32722,"end":32724,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":32724,"end":32725,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32725,"end":32731,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":32731,"end":32732,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":32732,"end":32733,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"[inaudible] Speaker."},{"start":32733,"end":32736,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah."},{"start":32736,"end":32738,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32738,"end":32740,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":32740,"end":32742,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32742,"end":32746,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":32746,"end":32748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32748,"end":32750,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":32750,"end":32753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Yebo, Somlomo."},{"start":32753,"end":32756,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":32756,"end":32758,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32758,"end":32761,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":32761,"end":32763,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32763,"end":32766,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":32766,"end":32768,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32768,"end":32771,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":32771,"end":32773,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32773,"end":32776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":32776,"end":32777,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32777,"end":32778,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":32778,"end":32781,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Raholane."},{"start":32781,"end":32782,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":32782,"end":32784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Moses."},{"start":32784,"end":32791,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Item is carried. Who's that? Right. Next item."},{"start":32791,"end":32795,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Joshua."},{"start":32795,"end":32811,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We now proceed with item 30, and that is Institutional Arrangements for the Effective Implementation of the DDM in the City as per the District Development Model Circular Number 2 of 2026."},{"start":32811,"end":32816,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Wax."},{"start":32816,"end":32848,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I speak to item 30, which deals with the institutional arrangements for the effective implementation of the DDM model in the city as per the District Development Model Circular Number 2 of 2026. Madam Speaker, colleagues, and residents, all protocol observed. Madam Speaker, we reject the whole"},{"start":32848,"end":32877,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"path that this model is taking us on, and where it's taking us. And so we reject the entire idea of this of this paper that's, or this report that's before us. But let me tell you why. Today we are asked to note item 30. It is a document that on the surface speaks the language of coordination, cooperation, and alignment. But beneath that language lies a deeper concern:"},{"start":32877,"end":32907,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the steady centralization of municipal authority under the District Development Model, and the quiet erosion of Johannesburg's constitutional autonomy as a sphere of government. The report before us, Madam Speaker, outlines a dense, multi-layered governance architecture: extended PCCs, extended Premier forums, extended metro IGR forums, clusters, work streams, and cross-cutting"},{"start":32907,"end":32937,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"structures at national, provincial, and metro level. Speaker, this is not coordination. This is bureaucracy. And Johannesburg cannot afford more bureaucracy when our residents cannot rely on water, electricity, or safe infrastructure. The circular requires our Executive Mayor to report biannually to the Premier on the state of this institutionalization. It requires our City Manager to align the city's IDP and budget"},{"start":32937,"end":32967,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"with a national One Plan. Let us be clear. The IDP is a municipal instrument adopted by this council, rooted in the needs of our residents, not a national planning template. Speaker, this council is being asked to accept a model that shifts accountability upwards, away from residents and towards provincial and national forums. When the Executive Mayor must report to the Premier, and national and provincial"},{"start":32967,"end":32997,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"departments are expected to align their plans to the city's One Plan, the lines of accountability become blurred. And when accountability is blurred, service delivery suffers. The report claims, Madam Speaker, that Johannesburg is at the forefront of institutionalization of DDM, and it is recognized as, and I quote, \"a leading practice\" by national and provincial spheres."},{"start":32997,"end":33027,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But Speaker, if Johannesburg is the model, then the model is failing. Our residents are living through daily outages, collapsing infrastructure, unsafe roads, and service delivery breakdowns. They do not experience this leading practice. They experience a crisis. The city's administrative capacity is already stretched, yet this report expects senior officials to participate in multiple IGR structures, clusters, work streams,"},{"start":33027,"end":33057,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"while the secretariat must prepare agendas, minutes, calendars, reports, and track resolutions across all these bodies. This is an unfunded mandate. It diverts scarce capacity away from fixing substations, repairing water infrastructure, stabilizing finances, and restoring basic services. Speaker, cooperative governance is a constitutional principle, but it is not a license for centralization. It is not a license to create parallel"},{"start":33057,"end":33087,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"governance structures that overshadow elected councils, and it is not a license to dilute accountability for service delivery failures. Johannesburg needs empowered local leadership, clear lines of responsibility, and a governance model that strengthens, not weakens, municipal authority. We need a model that delivers water, electricity, safety, and dignity to every community, not one that adds more committees, more reporting lines, and more"},{"start":33087,"end":33115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"administrative burden. Speaker, we cannot simply note a report that entrenches a governance system misaligned with the constitutional status of municipalities, misaligned with the urgent needs of our residents, and misaligned with the principles of accountable, transparent, and effective local government. We therefore reject this report. We reject the creeping centralization it represents, and we stand firmly for a Johannesburg where accountability is local, service"},{"start":33115,"end":33139,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"delivery is prioritized, and the constitutional autonomy of this council is respected. We cannot wait for the 1st of November to arrive when the results are declared and we take charge of things and sort everything out. Madam Speaker, we note this report with grave, grave, grave concern. I thank you."},{"start":33139,"end":33142,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Wax. Um"},{"start":33142,"end":33144,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Amen."},{"start":33144,"end":33153,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Zitha is not here. Um Councillor M. Mokoena from the ANC."},{"start":33153,"end":33182,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Greetings to you, Speaker. Uh greetings to EM, DEM, members of Mayoral Committee, Chair of Chairs, Chief Whip of Council, and fellow councillors, most importantly, residents of City of Joburg. Speaker, I rise to speak on item number 30, which looks at the institutional arrangement for effective implementation of the DDM"},{"start":33182,"end":33213,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"in the city as per District Development Model Circular Number 2 of 2026. While the report is for noting, I feel the importance of mentioning that the DDM is not a new layer of government. Rather, it is a framework that brings all spheres of government together to plan, budget, implement development in"},{"start":33213,"end":33244,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"a coordinated manner. The significance of this report is that it clarifies who is responsible for driving cooperation between national, provincial, and local government, and how accountability will be exercised. Importantly, the report highlights one of the major challenges facing the DDM nationally: the limited participation of national and provincial sector departments, which weakens alignment"},{"start":33244,"end":33273,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and implementation. Speaker, the report also confirms that Johannesburg is already well advanced in institutionalizing the DDM under the leadership of African National Congress. The city has embedded DDM principles into the intergovernmental relations strategy, planning framework, and governance arrangements, and this approach"},{"start":33273,"end":33300,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"has been recognized as a leading practice by provincial and national. Furthermore, the report also shows us that the amendments of the DDM regulations are currently under consideration. While the city will need to monitor these changes, they do not alter the immediate need to strengthen cooperation,"},{"start":33300,"end":33329,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"coordination, catalytic projects, and improve service delivery outcomes. Speaker, ultimately, this item is about ensuring that government works as one, and it seeks to eliminate silo planning, improve accountability, align resources, accelerate service for our residents. To give fewer examples, Speaker:"},{"start":33329,"end":33359,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"if this DDM model could have been implemented, let us talk in terms of the water license. I think Councillor Nefdt alluded to something that if it were to rain today, uh most of the wards in the City of Joburg will be flooded. And whenever, if you look at JRA, when it's supposed to work on the streams, we are normally getting information to say they cannot enter the streams up until"},{"start":33359,"end":33390,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"national and provincial government are involved. And at that time, our people are getting uh our people at some stage they might die. So this DDM model will assist us. Like another example, Speaker, is when the previous years, when they built the RDP without the tar roads and without the proper planning, uh it tells us one thing, that we also needed the DDM so that all the departments,"},{"start":33390,"end":33412,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"province could not build those RDPs uh in silos without excluding the municipality, and at a later stage, the municipality has to come in and begin to resurface or redevelop all the streets in those RDPs. So based on that, Speaker, we are noting the report. Thanks."},{"start":33412,"end":33424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, um Councillor Mokoena. MMC Masuku, Deputy Executive Mayor."},{"start":33424,"end":33455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Councillor Mokoena, thanks. You couldn't have put it better because, Speaker, the District Development Model is actually um an intergovernmental relations um framework which seeks to um actually align, and this circular was issued by national government, uh Cooperative Governance, for all spheres"},{"start":33455,"end":33486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and functionaries. And these institutional arrangements are actually for effective implementation, Speaker. And it actually clarifies roles and responsibilities and accountability. And you know, if we want the City of Joburg to really align, and I think the example given by um the councillor, it's telling because it's about planning together. It's about um ensuring that"},{"start":33486,"end":33516,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"intergovernmental relations is actually set out and it's clear even how the um coordinating forums, the extended coordinating forums, how they function. And our IGR unit, Speaker, already has started this work. And I think we must remind councillors that there is an Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act of 2005,"},{"start":33516,"end":33546,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and this IGR, IGFRA, is actually some work that went into it. And that work, it's about um coordination, continued participation. There's nobody who's taking anybody's powers, Speaker. There's nobody who's usurping anyone's powers. This is about making sure we plan together. This is about making sure that we are coordinated. And earlier in March as well,"},{"start":33546,"end":33576,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the Minister of Cooperative Governance published the notice and it was gazetted. And this has got nothing to do with which party is in power. By the way, Speaker, uh the Democratic Alliance that is um questioning and uh against this, they are part of the cabinet that approved this very same District Development circular that has been issued by the Minister of Cooperative"},{"start":33576,"end":33607,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Governance. So it's clear that the center is not holding in the Democratic Alliance. Others say this, others say that, whereas they are part of the Government of National Unity, which actually approved that. And Speaker, there's no money. This report doesn't talk about any money. There's no money that's going, budgets that are going to be taken. It's about just planning and coordination and utilizing the spirit of the Constitution of the Republic, as well as making sure that our IGR framework is all together."},{"start":33607,"end":33637,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And all departments that are relevant were actually consulted. And Speaker, we ask council to approve this report because it's actually just a circular that is going to assist us to ensure that we have um coordination, we plan together, the institutions are aligned, all spheres of government, being local, provincial, and national department, so that we move collectively in planning for the good of the people of our municipality."},{"start":33637,"end":33641,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. We ask council to note. Thank you."},{"start":33641,"end":33662,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, um MMC, Deputy Executive Mayor. The recommendations are on page 30.9. Can we hear how we are um agreeing to this item? ACDP."},{"start":33662,"end":33666,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still three, Madam Speaker, and we agree."},{"start":33666,"end":33669,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":33669,"end":33671,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain, Madam Speaker. Abstain."},{"start":33671,"end":33686,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD. GOOD. GOOD, are you still around? Okay. UDM."},{"start":33686,"end":33688,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":33688,"end":33691,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UIM."},{"start":33691,"end":33694,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":33694,"end":33701,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":33701,"end":33703,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"In agreement, Speaker."},{"start":33703,"end":33707,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. Al Jama-ah."},{"start":33707,"end":33710,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Agree, Speaker."},{"start":33710,"end":33712,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":33712,"end":33714,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":33714,"end":33718,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC."},{"start":33718,"end":33721,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":33721,"end":33724,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC."},{"start":33724,"end":33727,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh noted, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":33727,"end":33729,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":33729,"end":33731,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":33731,"end":33735,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":33735,"end":33737,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":33737,"end":33739,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":33739,"end":33742,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":33742,"end":33745,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":33745,"end":33748,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA abstains, Madam Speaker."},{"start":33748,"end":33751,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":33751,"end":33755,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted with huge reservations. Excuse me, Speaker."},{"start":33755,"end":33757,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":33757,"end":33760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":33760,"end":33786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, it's only two that abstained: Freedom Front Plus and ActionSA. Carried. Okay, we're on to our last item, and then we have the two um motions. So item number... Okay. Sorry, sorry, SD."},{"start":33786,"end":33796,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Next one, Chair. Um we are now on item 31, which is City of Johannesburg Draft Inner City Street and Informal Trading Plan."},{"start":33796,"end":33800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor B. Nkomo, are you still here?"},{"start":33800,"end":33802,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Present, uh Madam Speaker. May I proceed?"},{"start":33802,"end":33806,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right, let's shoot. Let's shoot."},{"start":33806,"end":33838,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, uh Madam Speaker. I stand to speak on item 31, which is the Inner City Street and Informal Trading Plan. Speaker, before I move forward, um I want to make it clear that nobody disputes that Johannesburg needs order in the inner city. But before council is told that adopting another plan will create law and order, we need to ask a simple question: Why is there disorder in the first place? Is it because Johannesburg does not have rules? The answer to that question is no."},{"start":33838,"end":33868,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"In fact, the city already has an informal trading policy. We already have rules dealing with designated trading areas, prohibited areas, the allocation of stands, environmental health and safety, removal and impoundment, offenses and penalties. The existing framework already provides for council to designate trading areas, restrict or prohibit trading in particular places, prevent trading that obstructs traffic, entrances, and fire hydrants, and take enforcement action"},{"start":33868,"end":33898,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"against unlawful trading. So our problem is not simply the absence of another plan. Our problem is implementation. In fact, this report admits that. It describes informal trading in the inner city as uncontrolled, organic, and unmanaged. It tells us that traders are operating at intersections, on roads, and even in traffic. It tells us litter is blocking stormwater infrastructure. It tells us fire hydrants and water infrastructure are being vandalized"},{"start":33898,"end":33928,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to access water, and that informal trading in its current state conflicts with city regulations. Those are enforcement failures, and yet the answer presented to council is another plan. Speaker, as usual, I'm expecting my colleagues from the ANC to disagree with me. I expect them to say, \"Exactly, that is why we need this plan. It will finally bring law and order.\" But Speaker, a plan does not enforce a bylaw. A map does not issue a fine. A colored line on a map does not remove"},{"start":33928,"end":33958,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"an illegal obstruction. A new trading bay does not stop somebody from setting up next to it illegally. And a council resolution in this case does not magically give JMPD the sustained personnel, resources, and operational capacity required to enforce bylaws. There's also the question of Lilian Ngoyi Street. The recommendation is that Lilian Ngoyi be declared a non-trading area. But where exactly are those traders going?"},{"start":33958,"end":33989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The report before council does not give us that answer. These traders did not randomly choose Lilian Ngoyi Street. Their location reflects where customers and pedestrian traffic are concentrated. Ironically, the report itself recognizes precisely this economic logic. It says informal trading follows pedestrian movement because traders need access to customers, and that transport corridors attract intense trading because of exposure to customers. So if you remove a trader from a commercially viable location,"},{"start":33989,"end":34020,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"where is the alternative site? How much foot traffic does it have? And what evidence shows that the trader can still earn a living there? This is not a minor detail. That is somebody's livelihood. But wait, Speaker, there's more. There's even a bigger contradiction. This plan proposes increasing designated trading space from 14,353 square meters to 21,446 square meters, aproximadamente 5,231 trading spaces."},{"start":34020,"end":34050,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yet the same document admits that there are resource, mandate, and budget limitations restricting intervention. So colleagues, the question we should ask ourselves is as follows: if we cannot adequately regulate the trading environment we have today, what gives us confidence that we can regulate an even larger one tomorrow? Speaker, Johannesburg has already demonstrated that concentrated enforcement can change conditions temporarily."},{"start":34050,"end":34080,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We saw miracles and extraordinary mobilization in preparation for the G20 summit. But the important question was never whether Johannesburg could clean up and enforce its rules when international leaders were watching. The question was whether we could sustain it after they have left. That experience should caution council against confusing a temporary enforcement drive or a newly adopted document with sustainable urban management. Cape Town's framework illustrates this distinction. Yes, I said it, Cape Town."},{"start":34080,"end":34111,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Because Speaker, how do we improve if we are benchmarking against ourselves? Speaker, if we are going to reclaim Joburg, we will need a framework that demarcates where trading is permitted and prohibited, and a framework that connects plans to permits, management responsibilities to enforcement requirements. Speaker, Johannesburg already possesses many of the basic legal powers it needs. What is missing is not another promise of order. What must be demonstrated is the capacity to deliver consistently."},{"start":34111,"end":34143,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Before dramatically expanding trading spaces or removing traders from economically viable locations, council should have clear answers: Where will displaced traders go? Who will enforce the demarcated areas? What additional JMPD capacity has been allocated? What infrastructure will be provided? What is funded? And what is materially different from what Johannesburg already has? Because without credible answers to those questions, changing the map risks changing where the problem occurs"},{"start":34143,"end":34148,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"rather than solving the problem itself. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":34148,"end":34181,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Nkomo. Um Councillor D. Dladla, are you here? One, two, three, four, gone. Councillor T. Raphadu, ANC. One, two..."},{"start":34181,"end":34183,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker."},{"start":34183,"end":34185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah."},{"start":34185,"end":34192,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor Tefu. I'm the one who's going to speak on this item on behalf of the ANC."},{"start":34192,"end":34195,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, let's go."},{"start":34195,"end":34200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, uh good evening to you, uh Madam Speaker, as well as to our..."},{"start":34200,"end":34230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"fellow councillors, and protocol observed. I rise on item 31, Speaker, City of Johannesburg draft inner city street and informal trading plan. Speaker, as as the committee, we remain committed in our obligation to oversee the work of the executive, which includes the management of informal trading and the development of a policy framework"},{"start":34230,"end":34259,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"for law enforcement regarding informal trade as well as traders. We therefore are pleased to welcome a clear and unambiguous shared inter-departmental commitment between the Department of Development Planning as well as the Department of Economic Development. We do so while taking into cognisance"},{"start":34259,"end":34280,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of a very high unemployment rate in our city, which makes informal trading an economic sanctuary at the disposal of those in need. For the longest of times, there has been an element of a catch-22 situation"},{"start":34280,"end":34311,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that has created a conundrum as most efforts of the city to strike a balance between creating economic opportunities while ensuring that by-laws are enforced has in some ways hit a doldrum. We take note of what the inner city street and informal trading plan aims to achieve, which is the following: to enhance and improve the quality of streets or street trading environment,"},{"start":34311,"end":34341,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"legalize and regulate street trading framework, improve safety of street traders and users, improve accessibility, enhance the quality of business and furniture for traders, creating a functional space for the users within that environment. We acknowledge the research that was conducted as indicated in 4.1, 4.2,"},{"start":34341,"end":34375,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"4.2.1, and 4.2.2 of this report. And Speaker, we do believe, it is our very firm belief that the city, as it evolves, it needs to adapt to the growing reality of population, the density of its population, as it is growing on a daily basis, and it becomes the responsibility of government to adapt to such and devise new ways"},{"start":34375,"end":34405,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and innovation through which it responds to that, and it is precisely for that particular reason that then this draft was developed, and we do believe that then it is our responsibility to ensure that we incubate it by putting scrutiny on it, monitoring it, more especially as it will be the first of its kind, where it shall be treated as a pilot project, and its success"},{"start":34405,"end":34434,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"will mean exactly that it will then be expanded into the peripheral areas of our city, such as township CBDs and stuff, and it shall respond to joblessness, it shall respond to job opportunities, because the city does not have a capacity to give employment to every citizen. We need to ensure that we use innovative ways in which we respond to the need as they arise and adapt"},{"start":34434,"end":34448,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"to the daily reality as they are experienced by our people. Therefore, as the African National Congress, we support and we believe that this draft should be approved. I thank you, Speaker."},{"start":34448,"end":34457,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor. MMC Mgcina."},{"start":34457,"end":34486,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to yourself, the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Mayor, MMCs, Chief Whip, Councillors, officials here led by the City Manager, and most importantly, the residents who have also joined us this evening. I think there is a reason why we are reviewing the plan that Councillor Nkomo was referring to, and"},{"start":34486,"end":34517,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the intention of the reviewal is obviously to make sure that we close on elements where we could not or where we found challenges, and we are in a mission to actually improve in whatever that we have identified as we were doing this reviewal. So, the informal trading remains an important source of livelihood of many residents in our city,"},{"start":34517,"end":34549,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and contributes significantly to the city's economy. However, Madam Speaker, unmanaged trading can place pressure on public infrastructure and pedestrian movement, safety, as well as the urban environment. So, the purpose of this plan, Madam Speaker, is to strike a balance between economic opportunity, public safety, and orderly urban management in our city. The plan identifies suitable trading areas."},{"start":34549,"end":34580,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That's where the traders that you are referring to, Councillor Nkomo, will be assigned to. Trading areas, it also establish capacity requirements and proposes measures to improve traders' support, compliance, and waste management, as well as storage facilities and overall trading conditions. It also outlines the implementation framework to guide the city's future actions,"},{"start":34580,"end":34611,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and regarding the Lilian Ngoyi Street, while it was initially identified as a trading street, the city has resolved to place the designation on hold pending further stakeholder engagements, as per the recommendation as reflected in the report. So, this approach seeks to also protect the significant public investment already made in the regeneration"},{"start":34611,"end":34640,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of the street. Speaker, this plan provides the city with a single coherent mechanism for managing informal trading in the inner city. It also supports economic inclusion while promoting safety, as indicated, safety, accessibility, and well-managed public environment. I therefore request that council do approve and adopt this draft inner city street and informal trade plan"},{"start":34640,"end":34671,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and the recommendations as presented in the report, and really appreciate the inputs from both councillors. They are noted. I just have to reject the one that Councillor Nkomo was referring to, having to go to another city to go and benchmark. I don't think that will be necessary. We have capacity within the city, and hence we are here to seek an approval for this improved plan that will address"},{"start":34671,"end":34678,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the needs of our residents, and most importantly, the street traders in our city. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":34678,"end":34692,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, MMC. The recommendations are on page 31.13. Let's see how we agree or disagree. ACDP."},{"start":34692,"end":34695,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we agree. Thank you."},{"start":34695,"end":34699,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Freedom Front Plus."},{"start":34699,"end":34702,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, Madam Speaker. No."},{"start":34702,"end":34704,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"GOOD."},{"start":34709,"end":34724,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I can't hear you. GOOD, I can't hear you. Okay, let's go past. UDM."},{"start":34724,"end":34727,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34727,"end":34730,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon? Noted. UIM."},{"start":34730,"end":34734,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34734,"end":34744,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM. Al Jama-ah."},{"start":34744,"end":34750,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker, Speaker. Yes, Speaker, ATM, yes."},{"start":34750,"end":34754,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah."},{"start":34754,"end":34757,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":34757,"end":34760,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":34760,"end":34764,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":34764,"end":34775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AHC. AIC."},{"start":34775,"end":34779,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"AIC agree to the item, Madam Speaker. Thank you."},{"start":34779,"end":34781,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"IFP."},{"start":34781,"end":34784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34784,"end":34786,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"PA."},{"start":34786,"end":34788,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34788,"end":34790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"EFF."},{"start":34790,"end":34793,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34793,"end":34794,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ActionSA."},{"start":34794,"end":34799,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Speaker."},{"start":34799,"end":34800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"DA."},{"start":34800,"end":34803,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a no, Speaker."},{"start":34803,"end":34805,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ANC."},{"start":34805,"end":34808,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Speaker."},{"start":34808,"end":34835,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So it's no DA, ActionSA no, Freedom Front Plus no. GOOD, I still don't know what you said. Okay, GOOD is silent. And AHC, no, AHC said yes."},{"start":34835,"end":34862,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. So it's one, two, three. I'm not sure what GOOD is saying. So there's three that said no: Action, DA, and Freedom Front Plus. It's carried. Right, let's get into the next item. We're doing very well."},{"start":34862,"end":34875,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Now we proceed with motions, starting off with the first motion, which is the motion for renaming Wolmarans Street to Dr. uZwi-Lezwe Radebe."},{"start":34875,"end":34884,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can we have the proposer, Councillor Y. Zigebe?"},{"start":34884,"end":34887,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I audible, Speaker?"},{"start":34887,"end":34893,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Very."},{"start":34893,"end":34896,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I audible, Speaker?"},{"start":34896,"end":34902,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are audible, Councillor Zigebe."},{"start":34902,"end":34932,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, the names we give our streets are more than signboards. They tell the story of who we are, what we value, and whose contribution we choose to remember. Today I table a proposal to rename Wolmarans Street to Dr. uZwi-Lezwe Radebe Street. Dr. uZwi-Lezwe Radebe's contribution reaches beyond spiritual leadership. His work has advanced education, youth development, employment opportunities, health and wellness, poverty alleviation,"},{"start":34932,"end":34962,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and the preservation of African indigenous knowledge and identity. But Speaker, this council should not decide this question for the people. We must open the process to the people. This motion specifically requires the proposed renaming to follow the city's policy, including public participation and all applicable legislation. Let the communities of Johannesburg engage, let them debate it, let them decide what their streets and landmarks should represent. Renaming is not simply about changing a sign."},{"start":34962,"end":34984,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It is about memory, identity, and ensuring that Johannesburg's public spaces recognize those who have contributed to building and uplifting its people. Let us therefore take this proposal to the people and let the people have their say. I so move. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":34984,"end":34991,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much, Councillor Zigebe. I now put it to the house. Do we agree?"},{"start":34991,"end":34992,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No!"},{"start":34992,"end":34993,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I go? Can I go?"},{"start":34993,"end":35000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No! No! No, no, no, no, no. No! No! No! No! We don't agree."},{"start":35000,"end":35006,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, okay, okay. I heard, I heard you. Can we now"},{"start":35006,"end":35010,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No!"},{"start":35010,"end":35013,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ayi, Councillors, please. We are on the"},{"start":35013,"end":35014,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes!"},{"start":35014,"end":35021,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are on the end of this thing. Can I get the seconder?"},{"start":35021,"end":35025,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We don't agree, Speaker. No need for a seconder. We don't agree."},{"start":35025,"end":35026,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, proceed."},{"start":35026,"end":35031,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Speaker, I rise to second"},{"start":35031,"end":35033,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's not your house."},{"start":35033,"end":35051,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, Councillor, Councillor, Councillor Magwentshu, just hold on. Councillors, can we allow the councillor, according to how we deal with motions? Councillor Magwentshu, you are the seconder?"},{"start":35051,"end":35054,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No need, Speaker. It's not supported."},{"start":35054,"end":35065,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Ayi man, who's that? Councillor Mzolo, please. Councillor Magwentshu, can you go?"},{"start":35065,"end":35071,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are wasting our time, man. We want to sleep. You are wasting our time, we want to sleep."},{"start":35071,"end":35080,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, Councillors. We have reached here so nicely. Councillor Magwentshu, can you go?"},{"start":35080,"end":35094,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, I rise in support of the motion to rename Wolmarans Street to be Dr. uZwi-Lezwe Radebe Street. Thank you."},{"start":35094,"end":35101,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Freedom Front Plus, Councillor Boer."},{"start":35101,"end":35108,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Goeienaand, Mevrou die Speaker. Dis die heel waarskynlik my laaste toespraak vir die jaar en vir die termyn."},{"start":35108,"end":35132,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm rising on Motion 1. The Freedom Front will never support a motion of changing an existing name into a new name. We just had Item 29 where it says in the body of the item there's 850,000 unnamed streets, but I think it must be 850. So,"},{"start":35132,"end":35160,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"there are 850 streets that needs to be renamed. So, pick one of those streets and rename it to Dr. uZwi Radebe Street. Madam Speaker, I'm not going to repeat the history of Jacobus Wolmarans. This street was named after him in 1912. We just had Heritage Day last week where we celebrated our heritage, and this is typical of the"},{"start":35160,"end":35188,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"of the ANC government. We have a day for youth, and we don't look after the youth. We got a Women's Day, and we don't look after our gender-based community. We got a Heritage Day for one day a year, and for the rest of the year we are busy destroying our heritage. The Freedom Front will not support this item. There are many streets that needs names, and if you want to build a community center"},{"start":35188,"end":35208,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and we want to name it after Dr. uZwi Radebe, by all means, but don't destroy our heritage by destroying our cultural names that got nothing to do with apartheid, it's got nothing to do with racism, that is part of our history. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":35208,"end":35218,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Boer. DA, Councillor H. Bodenstein."},{"start":35218,"end":35245,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Councillor Zigebe of the UDM proposes that we rename Wolmarans Street after his spiritual leader. Perhaps this is the UDM's new approach to service delivery. Its leader, General Bantu Holomisa, famously tried to explain it on live television: \"You give a poor man a fish and you feed him for a day. You teach him to fish, you give him, you give him, no, no, no, no, no.\""},{"start":35245,"end":35276,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Zigebe has now completed the proverb: \"You give a councillor a pastor, and he gives the pastor a street.\" A councillor is entitled to honor his spiritual leader. He may name his house, his firstborn, or even his Wi-Fi after him, but a public street belongs to the whole city. Once council starts renaming streets after people politicians worship, where does it end? Some ANC members behave as though they worship the godfather Paul Mashatile from his very big church in Alexandra."},{"start":35276,"end":35305,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Must we prepare Mashatile Avenue? The PA worships the ground walked upon by Gayton McKenzie, a convicted former bank robber. Must we have McKenzie Main Road, Patriotic Alliance Plaza, perhaps Prison to Parliament Promenade? Will every political messiah receive a boulevard, every prophet a promenade, every party leader a traffic circle? Speaker, we cannot afford to fill Johannesburg's potholes, never mind rename streets around"},{"start":35305,"end":35311,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Do you want us to name streets after Helen Zille, who allegedly sold out Steve Biko to be arrested?"},{"start":35311,"end":35313,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, am I protected?"},{"start":35313,"end":35316,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That's what you want to do."},{"start":35316,"end":35343,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"If Helen Zille and the Blue Brigade had not drawn attention to them, one wonders whether a single pothole would have been filled in Johannesburg this past year. Ms. Zille had to put on a wetsuit and snorkel in one before the city discovered asphalt. If the Blue Brigade didn't start filling potholes themselves, would any ever be done during this maladministration? The ANC cannot find enough money to fix the roads,"},{"start":35343,"end":35349,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"She must be arrested, that one! She must be arrested!"},{"start":35349,"end":35355,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The ANC cannot find enough money to fix the roads, but it has found enough political ambition to field not one,"},{"start":35355,"end":35383,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Order, order, Madam Speaker, order. Order, Madam Speaker. Can I raise order? It's Councillor Modupi. Are you giving me platform, Madam Speaker?"},{"start":35383,"end":35395,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I was struggling with the mics. If you could see on the screen, I was struggling with the mics. Who's asking for a platform?"},{"start":35395,"end":35401,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor Modupi."},{"start":35401,"end":35408,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor Modupi, what's the point of order? And on what point of order are you standing?"},{"start":35408,"end":35424,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm rising on Rule number 72, and the point of order that I'm raising here is that the motion that is in front of us is not raised by the African National Congress, and the speaker on the platform keeps on mentioning the name of the African National Congress."},{"start":35424,"end":35437,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor. Thank you. And Councillor Bodenstein, the councillor is correct. It was not raised by the ANC."},{"start":35437,"end":35439,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Right."},{"start":35439,"end":35446,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, desist from saying it's an ANC motion."},{"start":35446,"end":35447,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"That's fine. Thank you, Madam Speaker."},{"start":35447,"end":35455,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"He's sleeping on duty. He's sleeping on duty."},{"start":35455,"end":35467,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right. So, I have news for everybody who supports this motion. Helen is slowly but surely fixing every pothole in Joburg, and the road to her office in the Metro Centre is getting smoother every single day."},{"start":35467,"end":35470,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, Speaker."},{"start":35470,"end":35474,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you hold on? Someone can't raise his hand. Councillor"},{"start":35474,"end":35476,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are out of order, wena."},{"start":35476,"end":35479,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who are you, Councillor?"},{"start":35479,"end":35480,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's Councillor Mzolo, Speaker."},{"start":35480,"end":35488,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"There was a point of order now, so you can't raise another point of order."},{"start":35488,"end":35498,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, I'm not raising a point of order, but the councillor on the podium, no, but the councillor on the podium did not withdraw the remarks that this is an ANC motion, so he should withdraw."},{"start":35498,"end":35508,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, I'm going to tell him now. Councillor Bodenstein, can you withdraw that it is an ANC motion? Because your time is running."},{"start":35508,"end":35514,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I never said it was, but I'll withdraw if that is what they interpreted it as."},{"start":35514,"end":35527,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, Councillor. No, you don't do that. Withdraw what you said that it's an ANC motion, because it's not an ANC motion."},{"start":35527,"end":35531,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's not an ANC motion."},{"start":35531,"end":35536,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's just a motion. So can you withdraw that?"},{"start":35536,"end":35539,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I never said that it was an ANC motion, Madam Speaker."},{"start":35539,"end":35541,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You did! We all heard it."},{"start":35541,"end":35542,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I did not."},{"start":35542,"end":35544,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Now sit down, man. Sit down, you're a lost person."},{"start":35544,"end":35553,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, you're saying we are all deaf? Otherwise I'm going to cut your time, and I'll take you off."},{"start":35553,"end":35556,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"He's probably drinking brandy. He's probably drinking brandy, this one."},{"start":35556,"end":35568,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hey, hey, Councillors! I'm not asking you, I'm dealing with a councillor. Councillor Bodenstein, can you withdraw what you said? You kept on saying the ANC,"},{"start":35568,"end":35571,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Why are you emotional when they speak about the ANC?"},{"start":35571,"end":35586,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You kept on saying the ANC and Mashatile, you kept on saying the ANC, and I'm not defending anybody, but I'm saying what all of us at this table heard."},{"start":35586,"end":35590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I withdraw that it's an ANC motion."},{"start":35590,"end":35592,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, you must go and sleep."},{"start":35592,"end":35600,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillors! Can you please carry on because you only have three minutes now."},{"start":35600,"end":35601,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right."},{"start":35601,"end":35614,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Kunene, I can't have another point of order, MMC. MMC Kunene, and there's another one, Councillor, Councillor who? Councillor Wax."},{"start":35614,"end":35619,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's a point of order. It's a point of order, Madam Speaker."},{"start":35619,"end":35621,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But I've had a point of order now."},{"start":35621,"end":35624,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"nso","text":"Mara ke le bone gore"},{"start":35624,"end":35627,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that's why nawe u so."},{"start":35627,"end":35638,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, Councillor Wax, Councillor Wax, remove your hand. We've been cruising so nice."},{"start":35638,"end":35643,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, may I continue?"},{"start":35643,"end":35644,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Now sit down, Boer. Sit down. You are wasting our time, Boer."},{"start":35644,"end":35648,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You only have three minutes left. Can you carry on?"},{"start":35648,"end":35649,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right."},{"start":35649,"end":35651,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Potholes, she does not fix potholes!"},{"start":35651,"end":35657,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I've ruled, I'm not taking any hands. Councillor Bodenstein, get done."},{"start":35657,"end":35665,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"But you're not in control, Madam Speaker. Your people are shouting there, and they keep defying you. So please control them."},{"start":35665,"end":35668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Absolutely, Speaker, this is getting ridiculous."},{"start":35668,"end":35676,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, I know that. There's a racist statement that has been made against the speaker on the podium, and he must withdraw!"},{"start":35676,"end":35685,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you mute everybody except Councillor Bodenstein? Councillor Bodenstein, your three minutes."},{"start":35685,"end":35719,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, thank you, Madam Speaker. Before spending public money on new signs and a dedication ceremony, repair the street, clean the street, light the street, make it safe to walk down, because naming a pothole after somebody does not fix it. So let's adapt General Holomisa's wisdom to this new age: give Johannesburg a new street sign, and it looks impressive for a day; fix the street, and residents can use it for years. We oppose this motion yet again."},{"start":35719,"end":35728,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Next councillor, Councillor Modupi."},{"start":35728,"end":35733,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, my hand is up here."},{"start":35733,"end":35741,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The councillor has sat down, and I ruled that I'm not taking any hands. Councillor Modupi."},{"start":35741,"end":35768,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, thank you. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I want to put in front of this council that the African National Congress was founded inside of the church. There were the religious leaders, there were traditional leaders, and the African National Congress continues to respecting their role."},{"start":35768,"end":35775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councillor, can you move around because you're breaking?"},{"start":35775,"end":35778,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I audible now?"},{"start":35778,"end":35781,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, now you're audible."},{"start":35781,"end":35813,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, it's all right. I'm saying, also when African National Congress was formed, there were chiefs, traditional leaders. We also value the indigenous knowledge, and we also value the contribution of Mr. Radebe that he's playing in the communities, but as African National Congress also, we are guided by the rules, we are guided by the values of the rules and the guidelines of the City of Johannesburg."},{"start":35813,"end":35834,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, we must remember that our own City of Johannesburg policy on the naming and renaming of streets and public spaces, first approved in 2001 and reinforced through its revisions,"},{"start":35834,"end":35839,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Please move."},{"start":35839,"end":35841,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Am I still inaudible?"},{"start":35841,"end":35845,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah, now you became audible again."},{"start":35845,"end":35880,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, right. I was stating that the city's policy on the naming and renaming of the streets and public places, first approved in 2001 and reinforced through its revisions, explicitly states under section 7.1 that naming after living people should be avoided and only be done in exceptional cases. Now, Madam Speaker, bypassing this established guidelines without an extraordinary"},{"start":35880,"end":35916,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"city-wide justification undermines the very framework this council voted to uphold. While still respecting and recognizing the role played by many religious leaders and those preserving the indigenous knowledge, we want to request Mr. Radebe to engage further with ourselves as the African National Congress, as we love him, so that we can check other streets, as Councillor Boer has said, that we've got about 850"},{"start":35916,"end":35938,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"streets which remain unnamed, so that we don't find ourselves having to disagree in this platform and thereby looking as if we are opposing our lovely Mr. Radebe. As the ANC, I request that we do not accept the motion based on the reasons I have established. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":35938,"end":35950,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councillor Modupi. Councillor or MMC Amad."},{"start":35950,"end":35979,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Madam Speaker. As you would hear, the proposer had requested that we put the motion into the table so that council either vote otherwise and let the community decide whether or not through the public participation. So I'm noting and requesting that we put it to vote. Thank you."},{"start":35979,"end":35989,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you so much. Can the proposer close?"},{"start":35989,"end":36000,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker, thank you very much, and thank you for the inputs that have been done by political parties. Others, they think that they are in a TV show called \"So You Think You Can Dance\" or \"Idols.\" We are not in a comedy show here. We are talking about serious issues that affect the people of Johannesburg. And I think it is very important that when we come here, we don't come here and grandstand and make jokes about serious issues. We are talking about a person who has contributed immensely to the development of our communities, and all we are saying is let the people of Johannesburg decide through a public participation process. It is not for us here to sit and make mockery of our own people and our own leaders. Let the process unfold, let the people speak, and then council will make a final determination based on the views of the residents of the City of Johannesburg. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":36000,"end":36034,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"you are funny. Um but others are trying, shame, by all means necessary. Like yeah, we thank you very much and I don't know what is hard in taking uh this particular matter to public participation so that we allow our people to make the decision themselves. You can go and lobby them to reject it, but at the end of the day, as a UDM, we're a people-centered uh party and we believe that public participation is a cornerstone of our democracy should be allowed by this house, and not gag people based on our own feelings,"},{"start":36034,"end":36052,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"and so on. However, whatever outcomes that are going to come out of here, we're going to accept it, like the ones that we've had. This particular motion has been here in circulation for 2 years, and we've been at it. And just so you know, this is not the end. Thank you very much, Speaker."},{"start":36052,"end":36059,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councilor Zigebe. Right, um shoh, let me get my"},{"start":36059,"end":36062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":36062,"end":36062,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Who's, who's that?"},{"start":36062,"end":36065,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":36065,"end":36070,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Madam Speaker, it's Councilor Rohlssen. May I speak?"},{"start":36070,"end":36074,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I've closed the item. I've closed, it's closed. The proposer has closed the debate."},{"start":36074,"end":36076,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay."},{"start":36076,"end":36078,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You can't debate now."},{"start":36078,"end":36084,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, Madam Speaker, cuz I had put my name forward for the discussion, and that"},{"start":36084,"end":36093,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"the my I had put my name forward, Madam Speaker, but uh if if it is at all possible for me to bring a contribution, I'd much appreciate it."},{"start":36093,"end":36096,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Your name is not on the list."},{"start":36096,"end":36097,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, I I accept."},{"start":36097,"end":36099,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So I can't do that. I'll be setting up"},{"start":36099,"end":36100,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I accept, ma'am. I accept."},{"start":36100,"end":36102,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'll be setting up a precedent. Okay."},{"start":36102,"end":36106,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I accept, Madam Speaker, thank you very much."},{"start":36106,"end":36110,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you."},{"start":36110,"end":36115,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, colleagues, now let's go and vote."},{"start":36115,"end":36126,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And I I need the numbers as well, right? ACDP, how many are you?"},{"start":36126,"end":36129,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are three, Madam Speaker, and we vote no."},{"start":36129,"end":36135,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Say no. Freedom Front Plus, how many are you?"},{"start":36135,"end":36140,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are four, Madam Speaker, and we vote no."},{"start":36140,"end":36147,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good."},{"start":36150,"end":36157,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Oh, sh- Good says her mic is not working and she says no. UDM."},{"start":36162,"end":36166,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"UDM."},{"start":36166,"end":36170,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is a yes, Speaker. Can you hear me?"},{"start":36170,"end":36172,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Are you saying yes?"},{"start":36172,"end":36174,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":36174,"end":36176,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. UIM."},{"start":36176,"end":36182,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh that's a no, Madam Speaker. N-O, no."},{"start":36182,"end":36185,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"ATM."},{"start":36185,"end":36189,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":36189,"end":36193,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Al Jama-ah, are you still three?"},{"start":36197,"end":36200,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Amad, Gwamanda, Karolia."},{"start":36200,"end":36205,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Amad, Gwamanda, Karolia."},{"start":36209,"end":36215,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":36215,"end":36219,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"COPE."},{"start":36219,"end":36226,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. AIC."},{"start":36226,"end":36230,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"People are silent."},{"start":36230,"end":36235,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh AIC, are you silent or are you voting?"},{"start":36235,"end":36239,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh we are abstaining as AIC. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker."},{"start":36239,"end":36243,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain. IFP."},{"start":36243,"end":36248,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are still six and we abstain."},{"start":36248,"end":36253,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain. Six. PA."},{"start":36253,"end":36257,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 11, Madam Speaker, and we are abstaining. Thank you."},{"start":36257,"end":36261,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain. EFF."},{"start":36261,"end":36264,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Noted, Madam Speaker."},{"start":36264,"end":36266,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Pardon?"},{"start":36266,"end":36271,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"My council, noted. We are 10 now, Madam Speaker."},{"start":36271,"end":36277,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are 10 and what are you doing? This is a motion. Are you saying yes, no, abstain?"},{"start":36277,"end":36280,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, we are in agreement."},{"start":36280,"end":36281,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You're saying yes."},{"start":36281,"end":36282,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is a yes. Yes."},{"start":36282,"end":36287,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. ActionSA."},{"start":36287,"end":36291,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 20, Speaker, and we saying no."},{"start":36291,"end":36295,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. DA."},{"start":36295,"end":36300,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 55 and we say no."},{"start":36300,"end":36302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"55."},{"start":36302,"end":36302,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Speaker."},{"start":36302,"end":36305,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"African National Congress."},{"start":36305,"end":36310,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We are 69 and we're abstaining, Madam Speaker."},{"start":36310,"end":36317,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Abstain. Okay. So, we have 1 2 3."},{"start":36321,"end":36349,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We have ActionSA, no, not Action, EFF, that said yes, and they are 10, and ATM 1, it's 11. UDM 1, it's 12. And, so there's 12 yeses, am I right? My counting right? And we have 3, 7, 8, 9,"},{"start":36349,"end":36363,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"9 + 55 it's 4, it's 64, and 20, it's 84 nos."},{"start":36363,"end":36393,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"And 6, 7, 8 + 11 is 19, + 69. 19 + 69, 88. Okay. It's 88 abstained, 84 nos, and 12 yeses. The item is not carried. Thank you. So we go to the next to the next one."},{"start":36393,"end":36395,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Hey, you people make me count, neh?"},{"start":36395,"end":36411,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We're now on uh on the second motion, and that is the motion uh recommending traffic calming measures and pedestrian safety improvements on Clarendon and Corondon Place adjacent to Williston Court in Hillbrow."},{"start":36411,"end":36420,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can I have the proposer, Councilor S. Nkonyeni?"},{"start":36420,"end":36444,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker, no, thank you very much. Uh thank you, Speaker, this is a um Sorry, greetings uh to yourself once again and fellow colleagues. This is a service delivery motion, uh Speaker. However, I do know that it will be um highly uh politicized. Um and yeah, as a result, I would like to withdraw the motion. Thank you, Speaker."},{"start":36444,"end":36445,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Councilor."},{"start":36445,"end":36447,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You better. You better."},{"start":36447,"end":36448,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh-uh, no, no, no."},{"start":36448,"end":36451,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hhayi thula."},{"start":36451,"end":36451,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ewu uhlakaniphile mfana wami, uhlakaniphile ukuthula."},{"start":36451,"end":36457,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Um I see Councilor's hands. Councilors, we are not done."},{"start":36457,"end":36458,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You better."},{"start":36458,"end":36460,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Thula."},{"start":36460,"end":36466,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"MMC Kunene, your hand is up."},{"start":36466,"end":36468,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, there the hand went down."},{"start":36468,"end":36469,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker."},{"start":36469,"end":36473,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, sir. Yes, Councilor."},{"start":36473,"end":36483,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I'm happy that a frivolous motion was withdrawn because it really wastes uh council time to bring motions here"},{"start":36483,"end":36484,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are wasting our time, MMC Kunene. You are wasting our time."},{"start":36484,"end":36491,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"that are supposed to follow a process, a process that residents follow, which is a process of petition."},{"start":36491,"end":36492,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"You are wasting our time, wena. You waste. What is this?"},{"start":36492,"end":36494,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"All right, Councilor Kunene."},{"start":36494,"end":36498,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"What is What is the MMC rising on, Speaker?"},{"start":36498,"end":36499,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Cou-"},{"start":36513,"end":36516,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"yourself, Madam Speaker. We can't hear you."},{"start":36526,"end":36529,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker, we cannot hear you."},{"start":36545,"end":36548,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I think it's something that's blocking them."},{"start":36551,"end":36554,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yoh."},{"start":36554,"end":36556,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Can you hear me now?"},{"start":36556,"end":36557,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, Madam Speaker."},{"start":36557,"end":36558,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay. First"},{"start":36558,"end":36560,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yes, we can. Thank you."},{"start":36560,"end":36590,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"The first announcement is that we need you all to go and declare from the 5th to the 10th of October. Those of you that want to walk in, you can walk into the Speaker's boardroom from 9:00 to to 4:00 in the afternoon, from the 5th to the 10th. And colleagues, we are also going to, I think the memo is out,"},{"start":36590,"end":36621,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"uh on the retrieving of your tools of trade. We need to start taking in your tools of trade. If you have not received the memo, you will be receiving the memo tomorrow, as per the date, so all laptops must be in. We don't want to hear anybody says, \"My laptop is lost,\" or, \"My laptop has been stolen.\" We need all laptops to come in. Um I think that's the announcements."},{"start":36621,"end":36630,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"We, hopefully, this was and is the last one. So, I want to say may it go well with all of you."},{"start":36630,"end":36632,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker."},{"start":36632,"end":36633,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Yeah?"},{"start":36633,"end":36636,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, um uh this is No, this is Councilor Raphadu."},{"start":36636,"end":36644,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Is it Nkonyeni? Yeah, Councilor Raphadu."},{"start":36644,"end":36650,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Councilor, uh Madam Speaker, please, with due respect, I think the term of office ends on the 3rd, so if you are taking our tools of trade when our term has not ended, what does that mean, Madam Speaker?"},{"start":36650,"end":36656,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No. No, no, no."},{"start":36656,"end":36657,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Please give us clarity because you always say we are getting paid until the 3rd."},{"start":36657,"end":36662,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Tools of Uh-uh. Uh-uh. Uh-uh. Uh-uh. Tools of trade is"},{"start":36662,"end":36668,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Mm. Mm. It's in violation of our our working conditions."},{"start":36668,"end":36693,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"No, no, no, Councilor. Councilor. Councilor, I'm not violating anything. I'm not violating anything. Tools of trade is being taken in because we need to record everything, and I said you will get the notice when we taking in your tools of trade."},{"start":36699,"end":36706,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"So, colleagues, drive safely. Oh, but you are all home. Sleep safely. Some of us must now drive safely."},{"start":36706,"end":36707,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Uh Speaker. Speaker."},{"start":36707,"end":36708,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you. Yes?"},{"start":36708,"end":36722,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Speaker. Speaker, apologies. Uh you Some of us, our network was not working proper while you announced the 15 and uh the 10th and the 15th. I'm not sure what you were saying. Please uh can you repeat, Speaker?"},{"start":36722,"end":36753,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"It's the 5th. It's the 5th to the 10th. You need to go and declare, and you know how you declare, any gifts and what you have, and business that you are doing with the city or with any government department. You need to declare that from the 5th to the 10th of October at the Speaker's office. The IC will be there from 9:00 until 4:00."},{"start":36753,"end":36755,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"I thank you. Those of you that are driving,"},{"start":36755,"end":36762,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Okay, Speaker. No, ActionSA must just declare that uh they got whiskey somewhere, then we can close the uh our tab. Thank you. Bye, Speaker."},{"start":36762,"end":36771,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Bye-bye. Bye-bye. Those of us that are here, drive safe. The rest of you, sleep safe. Bye-bye."},{"start":36771,"end":36774,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Good night."},{"start":36774,"end":36775,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Thank you, Speaker. Good night. Bye."},{"start":36775,"end":36776,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Bye."},{"start":36776,"end":36778,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Bye."},{"start":36778,"end":36778,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Good night, Speaker."},{"start":36778,"end":36781,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"Bye, Speaker. Bye."},{"start":36781,"end":36784,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"af","text":"Dankie."},{"start":36784,"end":36787,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Ungasho, hheyi le khansela elokhuza."},{"start":36787,"end":36788,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hhayi sizwile shame hhayi."},{"start":36788,"end":36790,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hhayi siyabonga, siyabonga, siyabonga we Nomalanga."},{"start":36790,"end":36792,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"en","text":"From 9 to"},{"start":36792,"end":36800,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Sharp. Yisho ngokwakho lokho ukuthi u-CW kumele asiphe i-lunch ngeke, si-complayile."},{"start":36800,"end":36802,"video":"n3BgTkIGjUk","lang":"zu","text":"Hawu bantu bathi"}]}