Transcript: 27th Ordinary Council Meeting

Opening, notice of meeting and late start

00:01:46Councillors, can you please settle down?

00:01:57Councillor Schay. Councillor Nkonyeni.

00:02:03SetswanaCouncillor Pitso, re dula fatshe ka nako e.

00:02:15Good morning, councillors. It is hereby notified that the 27th Ordinary Council Meeting of the City of Johannesburg Municipality will be held on Thursday, the 30th January 2025, at 11:30 at the Constance, Connie Bapela Council Chamber in Braamfontein. Also noting that the scheduled meeting, as per notice, was issued for 10:30; however, we were delayed, and we apologize, due to the Special Council Meeting.

00:02:47Thank you, Secretary of Council. To the Acting Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor

00:02:56Sorry, I didn't see you there, Councillor Christians.

00:03:04Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, before you begin, based on the notice, I think it's appropriate that Council condones the late start. Because it can't be just a noting in terms of the reading out of the notice. Thank you.

00:03:54They've noted it, Councillor Christians.

00:04:04Councillors, we are in session. Please take your seat.

00:04:10Sinenhlanhla from protocol, please don't disturb our Council sitting.

00:04:23Please. To the Acting Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso in his absentia. Whip of Council, Councillor Nkosiphayo Zungu in his absentia. Chair of Chairs, Councillor Vunani Marema. All political party leaders and whips. Members of the Mayoral Committee. Chairperson of the Section 79 Committees. Fellow councillors. Acting City Manager, Mr. Tshepo Makola.

00:04:56Secretary to Council, Mr. Andile Gobinca. We are also blessed with the presence of officials from the Office of the Auditor-General of South Africa: Mr. Tlamelo Ramatsi, the head of portfolio, and Mr. Dumisani Cebekhulu, the business unit leader for Gauteng. We also have Mr. Monde Qongo and Nicola Dickton from their office. A very special welcome also to the provincial chairperson of ActionSA,

00:05:30Mr. Funzi Ngobeni.

00:05:39Officials of the City of Johannesburg. Residents of the City of Johannesburg. Members of the media. Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you all to the 27th Ordinary Council Meeting of the City of Johannesburg Municipality. Councillors, please note that the Whip of Council have requested that Item 16 be elevated and be considered after the tabling of the responses to questions. And I have acceded to that request.

Quorum check

00:06:10At this point, I will allow 10 minutes for Legal to verify the number of councillors we have present so as to confirm quorum. When I look at my time, it's 11:30. We'll resume at 11:40.

00:06:34Councillors, Legal will be checking the register and also doing a headcount, so please remain in your seat.

00:18:34Councillors, please note that there are 202 councillors present; as a result, there is quorum, and the meeting will continue. If you have not signed the register outside, please go sign.

Applications for leave of absence

00:18:50Councillors, we proceed with Application for Leave of Absence.

00:18:58We have received an apology from Councillor M. Mokwena from the APC. Are there any further apologies? I'll start with Councillor Avant-Smith.

00:19:13Thank you, Speaker. We have Councillor Fourie-Shawe, who's still on maternity leave. We have Councillor Dewes and Councillor Kreusch on private business, as are Councillor Raphadu and Chabalala. And then we have Councillor Ncube, who unfortunately was in a very bad accident yesterday, where somebody jumped a traffic light that wasn't working. So, we wish him well. And we have Councillor Da Rocha will arrive late; we're not sure when, he's got a crime initiative in his ward.claim

00:19:50And Councillor Truluck will leave at a quarter past or half past three, and Councillor Bittkau by 5 p.m. Thank you.claim

00:19:58Thank you, Councillor Avant-Smith. We wish that councillor a speedy recovery.

00:20:03Sorry, and Councillor Echeozonjoku at 4:30, please, sorry, if we're not finished.

00:20:11I see I'm not the only one struggling with a pronunciation.

00:20:15I have to think beforehand.

00:20:17Thank you, Councillor Avant-Smith. Councillor Durand.

00:20:28Councillor Avant-Smith, your mic, please.

00:20:34Thank you, Speaker. Please note apologies for Councillor Zaheer Jainoodeen, ill health, and Councillor Ayanda Mchunu, maternity leave.

00:20:46Thank you, Councillor Durand. Councillor Harris.

00:20:51Thank you, Madam Speaker. Please excuse Councillor Mkhonza at 4 o'clock this afternoon. Thank you.

00:21:02Noted, Councillor Harris. I'll start on my right with Councillor Dammie.

00:21:12Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, the following apologies from our caucus: Councillor Nguse, private matters; Councillor B. Dlamini, personal matter; Councillor Mnyameni, emergency in the ward; Councillor Mabuke and Councillor Maake, if we are not done by four, they need to be excused; Councillor Mofokeng, urgent matter. Thank you, Speaker.

00:21:42Thank you, Councillor Dammie. Councillor Mhlongo.

00:21:47Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Please note the apology from MMC Arnolds, if we are not done by 3 o'clock. She is asking to be released due to ill health. Thank you so much.claim

00:22:02Noted, Councillor Mhlongo. Councillor Simonse.

00:22:06Good morning, Madam Speaker. Early departures today would be Councillor Du Plessis and Councillor Dellwaria due to council business, and then MMC Kunene by 1 o'clock.claim

00:22:25Noted, Councillor. Councillor Makhuba.

00:22:32Thank you, Speaker. From the IFP, it's Councillor Khanyile, private business. Thank you.

00:22:38Noted, Councillor. Councillor Mogapi.

00:22:43Greetings, Speaker. As the EFF, we forwarded our apologies. Can you please check with the Secretary of Council? Thank you.

00:22:49Noted, Councillor. Let me see if there's a hand I missed.

00:23:01Councillor Dammie, do you want to come in for round two?

00:23:06Sorry, Speaker. Councillor Nkomo, ill health. Councillor Mathe is running late. Thank you, Speaker. I think I'm done.

00:23:20Noted, Councillor. Can we approve the apologies as submitted? Thank you, councillors.

Official notices and Acting Executive Mayor's statement

00:23:30We proceed now with Official Notices.

00:23:36Please join me in wishing well all the councillors who celebrated their birthdays and grew a year older during the months of December and January. We wish you everything of the best. Furthermore, please join me in welcoming the following councillors in the City of Johannesburg Council: Councillor Kabelo Pitso from PA, replacing former Councillor Melissa Davids from the PA; Councillor Julia Sondag from ActionSA, replacing former Councillor Lara-Ann Davids-Green from ActionSA. You are welcome, councillors.

00:24:17We move to the Statement by the Acting Executive Mayor.

00:24:23Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Mabaso.

00:24:26Thank you very much, Speaker and colleagues. There's no official statement. Speaker, you can proceed.

00:24:42Councillor Christians.

00:24:47Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, just in terms of protocol, I'm just wondering why is the Acting Mayor sitting there on the second bench. He should be in the first row. Can we please follow protocol, please? Thank you.

00:25:10He's acting, Councillor Christians. If he wants to stay there, he can stay there. If he wants to move to the acting seat, he can move to the acting seat.

Confirmation of minutes

00:25:24Councillors, we proceed with Confirmation of Minutes, which is Item 4, and the minutes which we're confirming are minutes of the 33rd Extraordinary Meeting, held on the 20th of November 2024, read together also with minutes of the 26th of Ordinary Meeting, held on the 27th and 28th of November 2024, and lastly, minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting, held on the 15th of January 2025.

00:25:53Councillor Harris.

00:25:56Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, there's a group of activists outside who had requested a audience with the Acting Mayor, and they'd wanted to hand over a memorandum. Can you please indicate at what stage are we going to meet with them as a common courtesy? Thank you.

00:26:16Thank you, Councillor Harris. I'm sure the Acting Mayor has heard your remarks. We'll proceed with business of the day. I'll start with the first speaker from Freedom Front. I see your name is here, Councillor Smit.

00:26:34Speaker, I withdraw from the item. I have no corrections at this point.

00:26:41Noted, Councillor. ACDP, Councillor Mkhonza.

00:26:52Shalom, shalom, Speaker. Greetings to the Acting Mayor, Councillor Mabaso, the entire executive, Chief Whip of Council, our guests, and all the councillors. I greet you all in the wonderful name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen. Hallelujah. So, Madam Speaker, the minutes for the 20th of November are all in order, and the proposed amendments are on the

00:27:29minutes of the 27th to the 28th, which I will forward. Page 30, paragraph two, just to change, it's a minor cosmetic issue, change U20 to G20. And also on the same paragraph, we may want to reconsider the sentence which reads as follows: "alongside G20, which will also be hosted." So that sentence may be reconsidered. And then page 37,claim

00:28:01just to change "Cricket Wanderer" to "Wanderers Cricket Stadium." And that's it. And then on the 17th of January, these are minor cosmetic issues I'll forward to the team. Thank you very much.

00:28:35Thank you, Councillor Mkhonza. I don't see any other hands.

00:28:53Councillor, I can't see your name from here, but you can speak.

00:29:01Morning, Speaker. Morning, fellow councillors. It's Councillor Mazibuko. On behalf of the African National Congress, there are no amendments. Thank you, Speaker.

00:29:12Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Koekemoer.

00:29:16Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. Just two small adjustments from my side. On the 20th of November, Councillor David Foley was present, and then on the 15th of January, Councillor Buyi Mnisi was present. Thank you, Speaker.claim

00:29:35Noted, Councillor. I don't see any other hand.

00:29:43Are the minutes confirmed as amended? Councillors, are the minutes confirmed as amended? Thank you.

Questions for oral and written reply

00:29:57We proceed with Item 5, and that's a question.

00:30:00for oral reply of which notice has been given in terms of rule 105 subsection 1 of the standing rules and orders of council, also read together with 5A and those are questions for written reply of which notice has been given in terms of rule 105 subsection 2 of the standing rules and orders of council.

00:30:22Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Mabaso.

00:30:27Thank you very much Speaker and all the colleagues. Madam Speaker and councillors, the responses to the questions have been loaded on our link.

00:30:44Thank you, Executive Mayor, Acting Executive Mayor.

Item 16 (Section 79 committee membership changes) and elevation of HR items

00:30:59Councillors, we now look at the recommendations to council on the elevated item, item 16.

00:31:15Item 16, and these are changes in membership of various section 79 committees.

00:31:30I've been advised that the Acting Executive Mayor must table first, and the Chair of Chairs. In that order, please.

00:31:46Thank you very much Speaker. I rise to table the items of the executive in the meeting for consideration. Thank you.

00:31:58Noted, Acting Executive Mayor. Chair of Chair, Councillor Marema.

00:32:04Thank you very much Speaker. I rise to table legislature reports. Thank you.

00:32:13Thank you, Chair of Chair. MMC Masuku.

00:32:20Thank you, Madam Speaker, and a good morning to your good self and fellow councillors. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the executive, we'd like to request elevation for the HR item, the recruitment for the Chief of Police, which is item 17, as well as the commencement of recruitment for the City Manager. So, the two HR items, 17 and 18. Thank you, through you, Madam Speaker.

00:32:53Okay, MMC Masuku. I'll accede to that request. We'll elevate them as soon as we're done with the nomination for the Public Safety Chairperson. Councillors, the recommendation is on page 6.2. Is the item agreed to?

00:33:18Madam Speaker?

00:33:21Councillor Rahn.

00:33:22Sorry, I tried to get your attention. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Please could we have a 10-minute caucus break for the DA caucus?

00:33:2810 minutes.

00:33:30Okay, no problem. It's midday now, we'll come back at 12:10.

00:48:04Councillor Sifumba, but where is Councillor Rahn? Back on time.

00:48:14Councillor Rahn is the one who asked for a caucus break. Who's going to give us feedback from the DA caucus? Oh, there she is.

00:48:29Apologies, Madam Speaker. Thank you for the indulgence of our caucus break. We have settled our matter and we can proceed with the item. Thank you.

Election of Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee

00:48:40Noted, Councillor Rahn.

00:48:48Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Item six, the election of the Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee in terms of rule 24 of the standing rules and orders of council.

00:49:05Councillors, please note that the election of the Chairperson of Section 79 Public Safety Committee will be done in accordance with rule 24 of the standing rules and orders of council. In this instance, voting shall be by show of hands on the basis that the aforesaid position is not part of schedule 3 to the Municipal Structures Act of 1998. The procedure set out in the schedule applies whenever a municipal council wants to elect a Speaker, an Executive Mayor, a Deputy Executive Mayor, or the Whip of Council.

00:49:42I have issued the nomination forms to all political party whips for political parties to submit nominations for the aforesaid position. I have received two nominations for the position of the Chairperson of Section 79 Public Safety Committee, and such is from Councillor M. Coutriers, seconded by Councillor G. Durand, nominating Councillor S. Wissler.

00:50:14The second nomination is proposed by Councillor Rahn, seconded by Councillor Echeozonjoku, nominating Councillor Maila. The forms have been correctly filled and accordingly signed by the proposers, seconders, and nominees. I will now allow the proposers, the seconders, and nominees to read out the nomination and acceptance respectively for record purposes.

00:50:43We will start with Councillor Coutriers, followed by Councillor Durand, then Councillor Wissler. Thereafter, Councillor Rahn, followed by Councillor Echeozonjoku, then Councillor Maila. In that order, please.

00:51:06I'm getting better. I'm getting the hang of it.

00:51:27Councillor Coutriers.

00:51:46ActionSA Chief Whip, please look for Councillor Coutriers. We'll start with DA. Councillor Rahn.

00:51:57Thank you, Madam Speaker. Nomination for the position of Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee, I, Councillor Nicolene Jacqueline Rahn, hereby nominate Councillor Solomon Masehlele Maila for the position of Chairperson for the Section 79 Public Safety Committee.

00:52:19That was the proposer. Now I'd like to call the seconder, Councillor Echeozonjoku.

00:52:27I, Councillor Belinda Cynthia Kayser-Echeozonjoku, seconds the nomination for Councillor for the position of a Chairperson of Public Safety for Councillor Solomon Masehlele Maila.

00:52:47Councillor Maila.

00:52:59Thank you very much Madam Speaker. I, Councillor Solomon Masehlele Maila, accept the nomination for the position of Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee. I thank you.

00:53:20Thank you, Councillor. We'll go to the second nomination for the position of Chairperson. Councillor Coutriers, the proposer.

00:53:32Thank you, Madam Speaker. I, Councillor Marcel Coutriers from ActionSA, hereby nominate Councillor Sarah Wissler for the position of Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety position. I thank you.

00:53:49Thank you, Councillor Coutriers. Seconded by Councillor Durand.

00:53:55Thank you, Speaker. I, Councillor Genevieve Durand, seconds the nomination for Councillor Sarah Wissler as Chairperson of Public Safety.

00:54:06Thank you, Councillor Durand. Councillor Wissler.

00:54:11Thank you, Speaker. I, Councillor Sarah Theresa June Wissler, do hereby accept the nomination for the Section 79 Chairperson position. Thank you.

00:54:25Noted, Councillor. At this point, we're going to start voting by show of hands. EFF, your councillors are outside. Caucus leaders, ba tlele, we're going to start voting. We are going to start voting for the name of Councillor Maila. All those in favour for Councillor Maila, please raise your hands.

00:56:19Councillors, you can lower your hands.

00:56:34Those in support of the nomination for Councillor Wissler, please raise your hands.

00:59:51Councillors, you can lower your hands.

00:59:59All those that

01:00:00councillors that are abstaining.

01:00:04I see that hand at the back.

01:00:08Two from

01:00:10hayi bo ANC

01:00:17No one is abstaining at this moment.

01:00:24ACDP.

01:00:26Three hands okay.

01:01:10Councillors, in terms of the votes, Councillor Maila received 67 votes. Councillor Wissler received 169 votes. Therefore, Councillor Wissler is duly elected as the Chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee. Congratulations, Councillor Wissler.

Item 17: Recruitment and appointment of the Chief of Police (JMPD) - party debate

01:01:51Uh councillors, we are resuming with recommendations to council and looking at the elevated items, item 17 and item 18. Firstly, with item 17.

01:02:12Item 17 is recruitment and appointment process of the Chief of Police uh for JMPD, which is Johannesburg Metro Police Department position in the Public Safety Department.

01:02:30Thank you, Secretary to Council. We'll start with ACDP, Councillor Rohlssen.

01:02:36Thank you, Madam Speaker. I greet you all in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ, amen. Greetings, Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor, Acting Executive Mayor, councillors, MMCs, distinguished guests, and residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I rise on item 17, the recruitment and appointment

01:03:06of the Chief of Police of the Metropolitan Metro Police, JMPD, the position of public safety. Madam Speaker, the ACDP is encouraged that after five long years without a permanent Chief of Police in our city, following the resignation of Mr. David Tembe in April of uh 2020,claim

01:03:34a candidate has finally been put forward for the position. The role of Chief of Police is vital to the safety and security of our communities. A strong, effective leader at the helm of the Metro Police is essential for tackling crime, maintaining public order, and ensuring that law and order, and enforcement

01:04:04operates with integrity and efficiency. Without a permanent chief, our city has faced significant challenges in managing these critical responsibilities, and it is time to restore leadership for this important role. Mr. Jaca's qualifications and his 10 years of lawclaim

01:04:31experience are impressive, and we believe that he is well equipped to lead our Metro Police effectively. Upon his appointment, we urge him to prioritize the reinstatement of municipal courts and to take action to recover a significant amount owed to the city from outstanding fines.

01:05:00This will not only help strengthen the financial position of the city, but also improve the overall functionality of our enforcement system, our law enforcement system. Should Mr. Jaca excuse me, not take the uh office, the ACDP will not support the second uh runner-up,

01:05:30Mr. Tebeng Tefu, as we believe a more robust approach is needed to address the pressing security challenges of our city. The ACDP supports this item. God bless South Africa. God bless the sovereign state of Israel. I thank you.

01:05:56Thank you, Councillor Rohlssen. AIC, Councillor Mhlongo.

01:06:04Uh thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Good afternoon to you, good afternoon to the Acting Executive uh Mayor, and all councillors uh in the house. The African Independent Congress uh together with the Minority Governing Parties are happy to see this process that has been started, and we have read through the the CV of the candidate, and we are happy that Mr. Jaca is the most suitable and most qualified

01:06:34person that this position actually needed. We would like to see the functions of JMPD changing in terms of fighting the crime in the City of Johannesburg. Therefore, all these parties agree on the recommendations and we support the report. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

01:06:55Thank you, Councillor Mhlongo. GOOD, Councillor Cook.

01:07:01Honourable Speaker, members of council, and fellow colleagues. I rise in support of item 17, which seeks to finalize the recruitment and appointment process of the Chief of Police for the Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. This is a long overdue step that our city desperately needs, and today we must ensure that we restore leadership where it has been absent for too long. For the past five years, the City of Johannesburg has been without a permanent Chief of Police.claim

01:07:31This void has weakened our law enforcement structures, reduced accountability, and hampered the city's ability to effectively combat crime and lawlessness. In a city facing significant safety challenges, it is unacceptable to continue operating without strong, decisive leadership in law enforcement. Honourable Speaker, we support the appointment of Mr. Patrick Jaca to this crucial position. He brings with him a decade of experience in law enforcement, with five years in senior management.claim

01:08:00This wealth of expertise positions him well to take charge of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and drive much-needed uh reform and strategic direction. However, Honourable Speaker, while we support Mr. Jaca's appointment, we must caution against any political influence or bias in his leadership. The Chief of Police must serve the people of Johannesburg with independence, integrity, and professionalism. Law enforcement must not be used as a tool

01:08:30for political agendas. Instead, we need a leader who will prioritize the safety and security of all our residents, uphold the rule of law, and restore confidence in our law enforcement institutions. Honourable Speaker, Johannesburg cannot afford another day without strong leadership in public safety. It is time to act, and we believe this appointment is a step in the right direction. Let us support this decision and work together to build a safer, more secure Johannesburg for all residents. I thank you.

01:09:04Thank you, Councillor Cook. IFP, Councillor Manganyi.

01:09:10Thank you, Speaker. Honourable Speaker, Acting Mayor Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso, members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors, distinguished guests, and residents of the City of Johannesburg. It is with great appreciation and a sense of relief that the IFP caucus in Johannesburg acknowledges the finalization of recruitment process for the Chief of Police. This process has indeed been a long and a thorough one. And today we celebrate the fact that the City of Johannesburg now has a duly appointed

01:09:42Chief of Police. The appointment of Chief of Police is not merely an administrative necessity. It is a fundamental pillar in ensuring the safety and security of our residents. A city as vast and dynamic as Johannesburg requires a strong, decisive, and an impartial leadership within the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department. The presence of a capable and effective Chief of Police guarantees not only enforcement of by-laws, crime prevention, and measures, but also

01:10:12fosters a secure environment where businesses can thrive, communities can live in peace. And the IFP caucus strongly believes that the public safety is a non-negotiable priority. The residents of Johannesburg deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets, and within their neighborhoods. The appointment of a Chief of Police provides stability and a direction to law enforcement in the city, ensuring that the crime-fighting strategies are effectively implemented

01:10:42and that justice is served without fear or favor. We particularly commend the city for appointing a highly qualified candidate who brings experience, expertise, and integrity to this crucial position. It is indeed encouraging that the selected individual is not politically affiliated with any political party within the City of Johannesburg. This is a statement to the commitment of professionalism and prioritizing of the safety and the well-being

01:11:12of our residents over political interest. We trust that his leadership will be guided solely by the principles of justice, accountability, and service to the people. As the IFP caucus, Speaker, we stand in full support of efforts that enhance law enforcement capabilities and strengthen the security of our communities. We call upon all stakeholders, including residents of Johannesburg, businesses, and civil society to work collaboratively with the Chief of Police

01:11:42and his department to build a safer Johannesburg. Speaker, let us move forward with a shared vision of secure and prosperous city where law and order prevail, and where every citizen can enjoy their rights and freedom without fear.

01:11:57TshivendaNdo livhuwa Speaker. Ah.

01:12:04Thank you, Councillor Manganyi. ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

01:12:10Speaker, the African Transformation Movement supports the appointment of Chief of Police, Mr. Patrick Jaca. He is armed with requisite skills, expertise, and experience to fight lawlessness. The appointment of the Chief of Police demonstrates that the Government of Local Unity is serious about safety and stability. This appointment will restore order, looking to restoring peace, cohesion in the City of Johannesburg. Crime fighting is key in the City of Johannesburg.

01:12:40The hindrance to service delivery by some criminal activities will now come to an end. JMPD will now be able to devise concrete and long-term crime-fighting and law enforcement strategies. Safety and security requires long-term and carefully planned strategies, something which cannot be achieved by persons on an acting capacity. The ATM believes that the incoming Chief of Police will hit the ground running to rapidly restore order and safety in Johannesburg.

01:13:11It is very difficult and almost impossible to deliver services while lawlessness is as rampant as it is now. The ATM further calls for a no-nonsense approach to law enforcement in the City of Johannesburg. I challenge any councillor here today to walk alone in Johannesburg. In actual fact, the Mayoral Committee members need to get a feel of how communities are from a safety and security point of view.

01:13:43As the ATM, we hope this Chief of Police will not disappoint. Let there be peace in Johannesburg. I thank you.

01:13:53Thank you, Councillor Magwentshu. UDM, Councillor Zigebe.

01:14:03Honourable Speaker, Councillor Mthembu, the Honourable Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Mabaso,

01:14:09isiXhosamanditsho iNqanawa neentsiba zayo.

01:14:12Today marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance safety and security in our beloved City of Johannesburg. It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of responsibility that we welcome the appointment of Mr. Patrick Jaca as the new Chief of Police of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department. This appointment is not just a fulfillment of an administrative process, but a critical step towards strengthening law enforcement and ensuring that Johannesburg remains a safe and prosperous city for all its residents.

01:14:43The recruitment and appointment process was guided by the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and meritocracy. We commend the work of the selection panel, which comprised experts and leaders from various spheres, for executing this process with integrity and diligence. The overwhelming response to the call for applications, with 74 candidates vying for this esteemed position, is a testament to the attractiveness and importance of this role. After a rigorous selection process, Mr. Jaca

01:15:14emerged as the most suitable candidate, demonstrating competence, experience, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. Mr. Jaca brings with him a wealth of experience, having served for over a decade in the policing sector, with more than five years in senior management. His leadership within the JMPD as a Deputy Director has already showcased his ability to navigate complex safety challenges, work collaboratively with various stakeholders, and implement strategic interventions aimed at crime prevention

01:15:44and law enforcement efficiency. His qualifications, including a Bachelor of Policing Practice, reinforce his deep understanding of the policing landscape and the expectations that come with this vital role. Honourable Speaker, the Government of Local Unity has committed itself to the principles of good governance and service delivery as enshrined in our strategic priorities. The appointment of a Chief of Police is a pivotal decision in fulfilling our mandate to build a safer city. Our residents deserve a police

01:16:15department that is well-led, responsive, accountable, and committed to the values of professionalism and integrity. Mr. Jaca, we have full confidence that under his stewardship, the JMPD will uphold these principles and work tirelessly to address crime, enforce by-laws, and enhance public safety. We also take this moment to extend our appreciation to all the candidates who put themselves forward for this position. Their willingness to serve demonstrates the depth of talent and commitment within our policing ranks.

01:16:46Furthermore, we recognize and thank the outgoing leadership for their contributions and dedication to the safety of our city. To Mr. Jaca, through you, Speaker, the task ahead is both challenging and rewarding. Johannesburg faces unique policing challenges, from traffic enforcement and by-law compliance to combating serious crimes that threaten the well-being of our people. Your leadership will be crucial in ensuring that the JMPD remains a trusted and effective force that works hand in hand with communities

01:17:16to build a safer Johannesburg. As the UDM and MGP, we pledge our full support in ensuring that the Public Safety Department is adequately resourced and that our law enforcement personnel are empowered to perform their duties effectively. We urge all stakeholders, including civil society and law-abiding citizens,

01:17:33Please wrap up, councillor.

01:17:34to work collaboratively with JMPD in achieving our common goal of a secure city. In conclusion, Speaker, we welcome the Chief of Police, Patrick Jaca, to this esteemed position. May your tenure be marked by integrity, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to safety of the City of Johannesburg.

01:17:50isiXhosaCamagu.

01:17:54Thank you, Councillor. DA, Councillor Maila.

01:18:18Madam Speaker,

01:18:24Madam Speaker, honourable members of council, the people of Johannesburg, greetings and salutations. The process that led to this proposed appointment of the Chief of Police for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Service is problematic on multiple fronts. We all know that the city obtained a legal opinion in November/December 2024claim

01:18:59which advised that a new selection and interview panel should be constituted. This was after the inclusion of Mr. David Tembe on the initial panel was found uh to have been inappropriate, as he couldn't be regarded as an expert considering the circumstances under which he resigned his position as Chief of Police in March of 2020. Apart from theclaim

01:19:30replacement of Mr. Tembe with Mr. Khulam Msimang, the selection panel that has made this recommendation has remained largely the same. A strict reading of Section 64 of the SAPS Amendment Act 83 of 1998 indicates that there are persons on the shortlist who should not have been shortlisted in the first place. Labour union SAMWU filed an objectionclaim

01:20:00to this appointment on Monday, January 27, 2025. I'm reliably informed, Madam Speaker, that Directors Sipho Dlepu and Ntsiki Mukasi have also filed their separate objections to this appointment, citing a multiplicity of procedural discrepancies. The submission tells us absolutely nothing about these objections,claim

01:20:31which could have been dealt with before coming to council. Madam Speaker, as I conclude, I must state that I am particularly concerned that Mr. Patrick Jaca will be turning 62 years um of age on November 19 this year. The mandatory retirement age in the city is 63. This means that we will be backclaim

01:21:01to square one in August/September next year, looking for another Chief of Police as Mr. Jaca will be retiring. Instead of appointing someone younger to help us stabilize and professionalize the JMPD that has had no full-time Chief of Police for almost five years now, council is requested to appoint a Chief of Police who is already preparing for his retirement. That said,

01:21:34however, the Democratic Alliance supports the appointment of Mr. Patrick Jaca as the next Chief of Police uh for the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department with the reservations expressed. I thank you.

01:21:54Thank you, Councillor. ActionSA, Councillor Chuma.

01:22:06Um uh greetings, Speaker.

01:22:09SepediA re šogetšana ba terekelo

01:22:11to the councillors in the chamber, the executive, members of the public in the gallery, our Provincial Chairperson Funzi Ngobeni, and of course, the most dedicated fabulous 44 councillors of ActionSA under the stewardship of our Caucus Leader and Chief Whip. How could I forget the residents of the City of Johannesburg? We all serve at their pleasure with passion and highest level of determination. As ActionSA, the party rooted in a rule of law, we note the report's

01:22:40content and approve the appointment of the first candidate, Mr. Patrick Jaca. With this appointment, we want to see our inner city reclaimed with stringent implementations of our by-laws and visible policing in our township. We want to see raids and law enforcement being conducted regularly to ensure the residents of City of Johannesburg always feel safe, including notorious places like Hillbrow and many other areas

01:23:10known for harboring criminals. One advice we wish to give the incoming Chief of Police straight from ActionSA policy is that the community-orientated policing that fosters trust, cooperation, collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities they serve is necessary to create a safe City of Johannesburg and by extension, South Africa. If you don't know how to implement this,

01:23:41the best mayor in the country right now, Dr. Nasiphi Moya, can offer some advice. Don't hesitate to reach out.

01:23:47SepediKgomo.

01:23:55Thank you, Councillor Chuma. DA, Councillor Foley.

01:24:04Madam Speaker, members of council of Joburg, the residents of Joburg, all protocol observed, good afternoon all. I, Councillor David Foley, rise on item 17, the recruitment and appointment process of the Chief of Police, JMPD position in Public Safety Department. The JMPD Chief of Police is a critical position in the City of Joburg, and the appointee should be a model citizen where all officers draw

01:27:30accountable as well as openness is what we see in our everyday's life through you, MMC Dr. Tshwaku. For a long, City of Joburg was in Hollywood with acting in key positions, including in Public Safety, and your presence here, Dr. Mgcini, has paved the way.

01:28:00We expect that candidate rated number one to show excellency, as you have actually paved a way on the ground. The expectation is that there has to be a restoration on key items like by-laws, the much-cried safety of City of Johannesburg, and all other responsibilities within

01:28:31uh JMPD that need to be executed.

01:28:35isiZuluSomlomo ngicela ukubingelela kunina nonke ngezihlalo zenu, bese ngibingelela umphakathi okule ndlu yedolobha laseGoli.

01:28:49It's not us as councillors of City of Johannesburg, but you residents of City of Johannesburg who had indicated out there that the most performing MMC for City of Johannesburg in 2024 is none other than MMC Councillor Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku of Public Safety.

01:29:19It is of these standards set by yourself, Dr. Mgcini, that needs to be maintained at all costs. Thus, the appreciation that through the approved or given approved panel we trust, and we know that the candidate number one is definitely the candidate that as EFF we say

01:29:50isiZulusiyabonga.

01:29:51Thank you. And we expect that, oh we also accept that the five

01:30:00recommendations given to the council, given to this council. Um, are adhered to and such it is simply because of EFF cardinal pillar number seven which is followed or also giving a sign of commitment that you are showing to us. MMC Dr. Tshwaku,

01:30:28isiZulunathi singamakhansela ala kuCity of Johannesburg siyabonga, sithi izandla zidlula ikhanda.

01:30:38As EFF though, we must stipulate that it wouldn't be just accurate that we don't mention to you, like we always ask Councillor, MMC Councillor Masuku to always consider fresh minds in positions like this when giving an opportunity on panel.

01:31:02So that also these candidates that are not within the system would be able to be given an opportunity and us we've always been indicating that we want to assist in the unemployment out there. Dr. Mgcina, through the panel

01:31:21isiZulusiyabonga

01:31:22as EFF and we appreciate. Thank you so much.

01:31:31isiZuluSiyabonga Khansela Ngwenya. ANC Khansela Francisco.

01:31:41Yeah. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Let me take this opportunity to greet our Mayor Dada Morero on his absentia. Also greet the Acting Mayor, um,

01:32:01isiZuluuBaba uMabaso.

01:32:03Greet all the MMCs, councillors, residents of the City of Johannesburg, also the City Manager. I'm happy to stand up and see all the councillors speak in one voice, uh,

01:32:27isiZulungoPatrick Jaca. UBaba uJaca

01:32:31it's a one of our own in Alexandra with a long, uh, nice record in, in the JMPD policing. Uh, I'm happy to also as the African National Congress to endorse, uh, Patrick Jaca. With the scores that he has,

01:32:5891% I'm saying to Jaca,

01:33:03isiZuluthatha lomshini wakho awunabungozi, ngiyabonga.

Item 17: MMC Masuku's response and approval

01:33:11isiZuluSiyabonga Khansela Francisco. MMC Masuku.

01:33:23Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, um, and once again a good afternoon. Madam Speaker, indeed councillors are correct that the role of the Chief of Police is critical and we do need an effective and a strong leader, um, who possesses the qualities that all the councillors have spoken about without repeating them. In line with our priorities as the government of local unity, we did say that safer city is very critical and also stabilizing the leadership in the city

01:33:54was one of the commitments we made when we came in. And Councillor Ngwenya, you are correct. We have done exactly that. And I think, um, stabilizing the senior leadership in the city, we've been consistent about it as the Group Corporate and Shared Services, particularly in our Section 79 when councillors would say that senior leadership is very important to provide direction. These acting arrangements don't give, uh, high morale to the, um, directors and, and, uh, deputy directors.claim

01:34:27Thank you so much also to you Councillor Mhlongo and Councillor Manganyi for your input in terms of law and order. And of course, independence and soberness is critical so that everyone who, um, is led by the Chief of Police follows in his footsteps of, um, making sure we uphold the rule of law. Um, thank you so much, Councillor Magwentshu. Couldn't agree with you more, as well as, um,claim

01:34:56Councillor, um, from, um, the UDM in terms of, um, the promise that we made. You've just committed, uh, to support this appointment. Thank you for that. I just do want to just make one correction, and thank you as well Councillor Maila for the support. Just one correction on the issue of, uh, the 63 years of retirement age. There is no compulsory retirement age in the City of Johannesburg. The retirement ages differ depending on the pension fund that the employee is part of. For an example,claim

01:35:29um, if you are part of the Municipal Employees Pension Fund, your retirement age is 65. That's the normal retirement age approved. And if you are in the Municipal Employees Gratuity Fund, it's 65 with an ability to increase to late retirement of 68. It is permissible. eJoburg is between 55 and 70 years. eJoburg retirement age is in that format. Just giving a free lesson, Madam Speaker, so that we're all on the same page as colleagues.claim

01:36:01Um, the NBC fund is 65. That's the normal retirement age with no retirement of late retirement. So, there's no option on the NBC to retire late. And the SA Local Authorities Pension Fund, the normal retirement age is 65, and there is no option for late retirement. So, in essence, it's between 55 up until 70. But what already, because we are proactive as the government of local unity,claim

01:36:30we've seen certain discrepancies and policy breaches in other pension funds. We've already started through mandating Local Labour Forum to work on a streamlined retirement process so that in 2026 when the new government comes in, regardless of whether it's GLU or multi-party, the City of Joburg has got a standardized legal retirement age so that no employee feels others are favored over others. So, we're working on that so that

01:37:00at least, at the very least, there's uniformity in our institution. And of course, it will have to go through the proper governance processes of the City of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, thank you as well to Councillor, um, Foley for your inputs. They are well noted, as well as Councillor Ngwenya and Councillor Chuma, as well as Councillor Zigebe from the UDM. In essence, this appointment is supported by all councillors, and I think it sends the right signal

01:37:30to our communities that all of us take, um, the issue of, um, safer city as a priority, and we're committed as a council to make sure we give, um, Mr. Jaca, who is indeed a suitable candidate, the support he deserves. Thank you very much to all caucuses in the city. Thank you, Madam Speaker. We ask council to approve the report.

01:37:56Thank you, MMC Masuku. Councillors, the recommendations are on pages 17.5 to 17.6. Is the item agreed to? Yes. The house has made its decision.

Item 18: City Manager recruitment and adjournment for caucus and lunch

01:38:17Thank you, Madam. Uh, we proceed, councillors, with, uh, another last elevated items, elevated item, that's item 18, which is the commencement of a recruitment process for the position of the City Manager for the City of Johannesburg, uh, Metropolitan Municipality.

01:38:34Thanks, Secretary to Council. MMC Kunene.

01:38:40Uh, afternoon, Madam Speaker, all protocol observed. Madam Speaker, we asking for 45 minutes caucus.

01:38:53Okay, no problem, MMC Kunene. I think lunch is also ready. It's 13:06 on my phone. Let's all be back here at, is it 2:00 or 2:30? At 2:30.

Item 9: Report noted (transcript begins mid-item)

02:00:00that has to be addressed. So the issues like budget constraints as in some areas, issues like, you know, resources, in particular, that is the issues that they have raised around JRA, around issues of yellow fleet or yellow equipment that we don't have, in-sourcing of capabilities, that they were raised and addressed within that context that they are being attended to.

02:00:26And the question really, or rather our commitment, is the fact that we will now ensure that we move with speed, ensure that our departments are well-equipped and capacitated to respond to the issues on the ground. So the report only seeks council to note a report, and as part of noting the report that council must continuously hold executive accountable on the commitments that it has made, because a commitment to communities is recorded.

02:00:54Thank you, Chair.

02:00:55Thank you so much, Executive Mayor. Councillors, it is Item 9 on page 109 of the agenda. The recommendations are on page 118. I put the recommendations before Council. Are there any objections? Okay, the recommendations are approved and the report noted. We move to Item 10.

Item 10: Adjustment of powers and functions of the Executive Mayor

02:01:25That is report on adjustment of powers and functions for MMC, the Executive Mayor to table the item.

02:01:32Thank you, Madam Speaker. Just a point of correction. The item is the report on adjustment of powers and function for the Executive Mayor, not the MMCs.

02:01:41Oh, apologies. Thank you. Yes, you may continue, Executive Mayor.

02:01:48Thank you, Chair. Effectively, the item seeks to adjust the powers that were given to the Executive Mayor, particularly the powers that relates to the appointment of Boards and CEOs across the entities in the city. So we are then requesting council to note and approve the recommendations which are on page 122 of our document,claim

02:02:17which will read carefully through all the powers and functions, including the new additions which were made in the last council meeting, around the delegations to deal with the debt write-off of 3 million and above, which is now delegated to the Executive Mayor. Thank you, Chair.claim

02:02:39Thank you so much, Executive Mayor. We are going to open up the item for comments or inputs. We have Councillor Miranda. That's the only hand I see. Councillor Miranda.

02:03:00Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. As the Democratic Alliance, this report has been served in front of us many a times where these powers and delegation is adjusted and amended without consultation or without being served at a section 79 committee and bypassing those committees. We as the Democratic Alliance will not be supporting it because the delegation framework is not reviewed in its entirety, and it is also bypassing section 79 committees. I thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:03:27Thank you, Councillor Miranda. Next is Councillor Zitha.

02:03:35Thanks, Madam Speaker. The EFF rejects this report. Thank you.

02:03:42Thank you, Councillor Zitha. Next is Councillor Mbundu.

02:03:49Thank you, Speaker. ActionSA rejects the report as well. Thank you.

02:03:54Thank you, Councillor Mbundu. Those were the only hands. Does the Executive Mayor wish to respond?

02:04:01Madam Speaker, really there's nothing to respond except the fact that the powers and functions in terms of the Municipal Systems Act are original powers of the Executive Mayor and can only be delegated by Council. Thank you.

02:04:19Thank you, Executive Mayor. We will now put the item to the vote because there's been objections. It's Item 10 on page 120. The recommendations are on page 122. All in favor of the report, please raise your hand.

02:04:41This is all in favor of Item 10. Can I have counts? Please keep your hands up, Councillors. Keep your hands up while the counting is happening.

02:05:49Can I get the counts? All right, we'll start with this table. 48. 28. Thank you. 42. Thank you. Next is those who are against the report. Please raise your hands.

02:06:19Against. Please keep your hands up. Against. Keep your hands up, Councillors.

02:06:51Counts. Nothing here? Zero. 18. 59. Thank you. Those who abstain, please raise your hands. Abstain. Thank you, Councillors. You may lower your hands.

02:07:23Zero, three, zero. Virtual. Let's go to virtual. Those who are in favor of Item 10, please raise your virtual hands. Keep your hands up, Councillors on virtual.

02:09:11Please lower your hands on virtual. Those who are against Item 10 on virtual, please raise your hands. This is against on virtual. Against Item 10.

02:10:03Please lower your hands on virtual. Those who are abstaining from voting on virtual, please raise your virtual hands. This is abstaining. Abstentions on virtual. Councillor... Who's that? They've lowered their hand. Okay. Only one hand. Councillor, what's the name?

02:10:36Councillor Brand. Thank you. May I get the tally?

02:11:27Votes in favor in the chamber is 118, virtual is 17, total is 135. Those against is 77 in the chamber, 20 on virtual, total is 97. Abstentions is three in the chamber, one on virtual, total is four. Total votes is 236 and the item is carried. Thank you, Councillors.

Items 11 to 13: Group risk, audit and performance audit committee annual reports

02:11:57We move to Item 11. That is the Group Risk Governance and Compliance Committee Annual Report for 2023-24 Financial Year. Could I call upon the MMC for Finance to table the item.

02:12:25Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. The report is tabled for noting to council in terms of the risk governance compliance for the year 2023-2024 in terms of the work that they've done that supports both the work of MPAC, oversights, and the Section 79. And I think the reports are comprehensively attached in our pack for councillors to note it. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:12:55Thank you, MMC. Are there any inputs or comments on the item? None. I see none. We'll go to the recommendations on page 177. Are there any objections to the recommendations? It's for noting. Recommendations are approved and the report noted. We move to Item 12.

02:13:21Group Audit Committee Annual Report for the 2023-24 Financial Year. Again, I call upon the MMC for Finance to table the item.

02:13:33Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Just like the previous report on risk governance compliance, the Group Audit Performance Committee is also tabling its report for 2023-2024 in terms of the work that it would have done in the previous financial year, and it equally supports the work of MPAC, Section 79, and the Executive. We table it for noting. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:14:00Thank you, MMC. Are there any comments, inputs on the report? I see none. The recommendations are on page 211 for noting. The recommendations are approved and the report noted. We move to Item 13. That is the Group Performance Audit Committee Annual Report for the 2023-24 Financial Year.

02:14:29MMC Finance to table the report.

02:14:33Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Group Performance Audit Committee, equally with the two previous committees, are tabling their report for 2023-2024 financial year for council to note the work that they've done in support of council. So we table it for noting. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:14:54Thank you, MMC. Any inputs, comments on the report? I see none. The recommendations are on page 255 for noting. Are there any objections? Okay, the recommendations are approved and the report noted. That brings us to the end of the reports from the Executive Mayor. We will now move to reports from portfolio committees and other committees of council.

Item 14: Naming of public open space after Classic Football Club

02:15:24That will be Item 14, which is a report from Section 79 Governance Committee, the naming of the public open space on Erf 1762, Mayfair, corner of Tenth Avenue and Albertina Sisulu Road in Ward 58, Region F, to classic...

02:15:47...after classical, classic football club. Okay, so it's to Classic Football Club. Right, it's on page 256, Councillors. Can I call upon the MMC for Community Development to table the item?

02:16:08Thank you, Madam Speaker. Good morning, Councillors. I hereby present the report on naming of the public open space on Erf 1762, Mayfair, corner of Tenth Avenue and Albertina Sisulu Road in Ward 58, Region F, after Classic Football Club.

02:16:33According to the policy on naming of streets and other public places, biological names should be used sparingly and preference shall be given to non-biological names with a positive developmental message. Only in exceptional circumstances should naming after living persons be considered, taking into consideration the contribution made directly to society and communities.

02:16:59The City of Johannesburg Naming Policy makes a provision for any person, community organization, or structure to submit an application to name or rename a feature in the city. The applicant must provide reasons in writing in support of the proposal and include evidence of wide community consultation. An application to name the public space on Erf 1762, Mayfair, corner of Tenth Avenue and Albertina Sisulu Road in Ward 58, Region F,

02:17:29was received by the Directorate on the 22nd of February 2022 from the Ward Councillor, Councillor Rickesh Desai, on behalf of the community of Mayfair, Homestead Park, and Amalgam. The motivation behind the proposal is as follows: The Classic Football Club was founded in 1960 in Pageview, Fietas, by a group of young boys who had a passion for soccer. In line with the Naming Policy, the public participation process was conducted for a period of 29 days from the 12th of September to the 10th of October 2023.

02:17:58A public notice was placed at local municipal facilities, libraries, and recreation centers, inviting comments on the proposal. During this period, the Directorate received more than 200 emails in support of the proposal, along with two objections. These were responded to as follows: The first objection stated that the proposal does not reflect the diversity of the area because it is associated with a particular racial group.

02:18:28In response, the Directorate indicated that the Classic Football Club is open to everyone in the community, regardless of race, gender, or creed. The club was formed during the apartheid era when different races were not allowed to mix or play together. However, since the dawn of democracy, everyone is welcome to join. The second objection raised concerns about the maintenance and upkeep of the facility. The Directorate clarified that the naming of the public open space is separate from the maintenance, which is the responsibility of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo.

02:18:57The recommendations are as follows: One, that the naming of the public open space on Erf 1762, Mayfair, corner of Tenth Avenue and Albertina Sisulu Road in Ward 58, Region F, as Classic Football Club Ground be approved. Two, that the Group Executive Director, Community Development, in collaboration with the Managing Director of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, be authorized to do all things necessary to give effect to the resolution.

02:19:25Three, that a plaque be installed at the facility detailing the history of the Classic Football Club. I thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:19:33Thank you, MMC. Could I call upon the Chairperson of the Section 79 Committee on Community Development, Councillor... It's Governance? Why is it Governance if it's tabled by ComDev?

02:19:53Okay, alright, can I get the Chairperson of Governance? Yes, Councillor习... Where is he? Oh, over there. Councillor Maxim. You are recognized, Councillor Maxim.

02:20:09Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. Madam Speaker, I can confirm that this item served before the Governance Committee, and we considered all the compliance processes that were followed, including the public participation process. The committee was satisfied that the naming policy was adhered to, and we therefore recommend that Council approve the naming of the public open space as Classic Football Club Ground. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:20:39Thank you, Chair. Are there any comments or inputs on the item? None. I see none. We'll go to the recommendations on page 259. Are there any objections to the recommendations? Okay, the recommendations are approved. We move to Item 15, which is a report from Section 79 Community Development Committee,

Item 15: Long-term lease to Bezuidenhout Valley Bowling Club

02:21:08the proposed alienation of Portion 1 of Erf 104, Bezuidenhout Valley, by means of a long-term lease to Bezuidenhout Valley Bowling Club. Can I call upon the MMC for Community Development to table the item? Or is it Development Planning? Let me check. Who's tabling Item 15?

02:21:41MMC Development Planning, Councillor... Okay, MMC Eunice Mgcina, please table the item.

02:21:51Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, and good morning to all the councillors. Madam Speaker, I rise to table Item 15, which is the proposed alienation of Portion 1 of Erf 104, Bezuidenhout Valley, by means of a long-term lease to the Bezuidenhout Valley Bowling Club. The subject property is zoned "Public Open Space" and measures approximately 1.2 hectares in extent.claim

02:22:20The Bezuidenhout Valley Bowling Club has been occupying and utilizing the property for bowling purposes for many years. They have applied to the City of Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) for a renewal of their long-term lease for a period of nine years and 11 months. The property is not required for the provision of minimum level of basic municipal services.claim

02:22:47The proposed lease will ensure that the facility continues to be maintained by the club at no cost to the City, while providing recreational opportunities to the local community. All relevant departments and entities were consulted and no objections were received. I therefore submit the report for approval by Council as recommended on page 264. Thank you, Madam Speaker.claim

02:23:15Thank you, MMC. Could I call upon the Chairperson of the Section 79 Committee... which committee did this serve at? Economic Development? Okay, Chairperson of Economic Development, Councillor... Is he in the house or virtual? Let's check virtual.

02:23:49Okay, we don't have the Chair, so we'll open up the item for comments or inputs from councillors. Are there any comments or inputs on Item 15? I see Councillor Hoén. You are recognized, Councillor.

02:24:09Thank you, Madam Speaker. The Democratic Alliance supports this item. Sports clubs like the Bezuidenhout Valley Bowling Club play a vital role in keeping our communities active and maintaining public infrastructure when the City fails to do so. However, we must note our concern regarding the delays in processing these leases at JPC, which often leaves clubs in limbo and unable to secure sponsorships or invest in upgrades.

02:24:38We urge the executive to streamline the lease renewal process for all sporting and community organizations across the city. Thank you.

02:24:48Thank you, Councillor Hoén. Are there any other comments? None. Does the MMC wish to respond?

02:24:57No, Madam Speaker, we welcome the support and we note the comments regarding the turnaround times at JPC, which we are currently addressing. Thank you.

02:25:08Thank you, MMC. The recommendations are on page 264. Are there any objections to the recommendations? None. The recommendations are approved. We move to Item 16. That is the report on the... Let me just get to the page.

Item 16 (agenda): Write-off of irrecoverable property rates and service charge debts

02:25:42Item 16 is on page 270. It is the report on the write-off of irrecoverable debts in respect of the property rates and service charges for the 2023-24 financial year. Can I call upon the MMC for Finance to table the item?

02:26:07Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. We table Item 16, which is a report from the Finance Portfolio Committee dealing with the write-off of irrecoverable debt in respect of property rates and service charges. As council would know, in terms of our credit control and debt collection policy, as well as the MFMA, we are required to periodically review our debtors book and where debt is deemed irrecoverable after all avenues of collection have been exhausted,

02:26:37we bring those to council for write-off so that we can reflect a true and fair view of our receivables in the financial statements. The details of the accounts and the categories are outlined in the report, and we table it for council's approval. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:26:56Thank you, MMC. Could I call upon the Chairperson of the Finance Section 79 Committee, Councillor... Who is the Chair of Finance? Councillor... Okay, you are recognized, Chair.

02:27:19Thank you, Madam Speaker. Good morning, Council. The Finance Committee considered this report and noted the rigorous processes undertaken by the Revenue Department to try and recover these debts before recommending them for write-off. We emphasized the need for the City to improve its billing accuracy and early collection mechanisms so that debts do not accumulate to the point where they become prescribed or irrecoverable.

02:27:48Having satisfied ourselves that due process was followed in accordance with the policy, the committee recommends the report for approval by Council. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:28:00Thank you, Chairperson. I now open the floor for comments or inputs from councillors on Item 16. I see Councillor... Let me get the names. Councillor Sun, followed by Councillor Zitha, followed by Councillor Mbundu. Councillor Sun, you may proceed.

02:28:27Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. While we understand the accounting necessity of writing off irrecoverable debt, the Democratic Alliance cannot support a blanket write-off of this magnitude without a clear consequence management report on how these debts were allowed to prescribe in the first place. Billions of rands are lost because the Revenue Department fails to hand over accounts on time, fails to disconnect illegal connections, and fails to resolve billing disputes timeously.

02:28:56Law-abiding residents who pay their bills every month are being punished with above-inflation tariff hikes to subsidize the City's incompetence in debt collection. Until we see a turnaround strategy in Revenue and accountability for officials who let debt prescribe, the DA will vote against this item. Thank you.

02:29:17Thank you, Councillor Sun. Next is Councillor Zitha.

02:29:23Thank you, Madam Speaker. As the EFF, we actually support the write-off of debt, especially where it affects the poor and indigent households in our townships who cannot afford the exorbitant tariffs of the City of Johannesburg. However, our concern is when business debts and government department debts are slipped into these write-offs without proper scrutiny. We want to ensure that the indigent register is properly updated so that our grandmothers in Soweto, Alexandra, and Orange Farm

02:29:52have their historical debts written off completely, rather than being harassed by debt collectors. On the basis that this reliefs the burden on poor residents, we support the write-off, but demand stricter collection from big businesses. Thank you.

Motions: dispute over withdrawn secondment and rule 67

02:30:00that has been received on line today the two motions have been tabled, they will be voted on and the Council will move on. We can't do any other thing else than to vote on the two motions because we can't be dealing with an administrative matter of a letter that has been sent on line that has not been processed by the administration for its validity. We have processed the validity of the motion of Councillor Mgcina and that is why we will vote on that particular motion. Thank you very much.

02:30:36Thank you, Councillor Morero. Can we call upon the IEC to come forward? Point of order. Point of order, Speaker. What's the point of order, Councillor Kunene? Speaker, rule 67 is clear about the motion which can be withdrawn. The seconder has withdrawn this motion.

02:31:02What are you going to do? You can't vote on a motion that has been withdrawn. A seconder has withdrawn this motion. Which rule are you rising on? Yes, Councillor Kunene, you have spoken. I'm rising on rule 67. 67, can you read it, Councillor Kunene? It says withdrawal or amendment of motion. Wait, read it. With the leave of the Council, the mover of a motion may withdraw it at any time prior to the motion being put to the vote by the Speaker, provided there's no dissenting voice.

02:31:31No, no, wait, finish. Point two. A motion which has been withdrawn may not be moved again during the meeting at which it has been withdrawn. Thank you, Chair. Thank you, Councillor Kunene. Who was the mover of the motion? It was Councillor Mgcina. Has Councillor Mgcina withdrawn the motion? No, Chair. The seconder. Why are we entertaining this? I mean, you just read the rule. You can't have a motion without a seconder, Speaker. Thank you, Councillor Kunene. Look at me, look at me in the eye. Look at me in the eye.

02:32:02Look at me in the eye. Councillor Kunene, you had your time. Thank you. You can't have a motion without a seconder. May I call upon the IEC? Point of order, Madam Speaker. Point of order. Point of order, Madam Speaker. What's your point of order, Councillor? [inaudible] Yes. What's your point of order? Madam Speaker, on a point of order, rule 74 (1) says, when an urgent matter arises which requires the immediate attention of the Council, the Speaker may, at his absolute discretion, allow a councillor to table a motion... Wait, Councillor. Look at me. Look at me.

02:32:32Which rule are you reading? Look at me. Look at me. We have passed that. No, Speaker. We have passed that rule 74. We have dealt with that. Next. Another point of order. Take your seat, Councillor. Another point of order. Speaker, on a point of order. Point of order, Speaker. Wait, wait. Can I recognise people? Point of order, Speaker. Can I recognise you before you speak? Yes, Councillor. Point of order, Speaker.

02:33:02Yes, Councillor. Thank you very much, Speaker. I'm rising on rule 63, subsection 2 and rule 58, subsection 1 and rule 67. Can you read it? Yes, Speaker. Let's start with rule 58 (1), which says, a notice of motion must be signed by the mover and the seconder and must be delivered to the Secretary at least fifteen working days before the meeting of the Council where it is to be considered.

02:33:29Notice of motion must be signed by a mover and a seconder. Rule 63, subsection 2 says, the Speaker must read out the number of every motion and the name of the mover and the seconder. After the Speaker has read the number and the name of the mover and the seconder, he must ascertain which motions are unopposed and these must be passed without debate and thereafter, the Speaker must call the mover of the opposed motions in the order they appear on the agenda.

02:33:58Then rule 67 says, the withdrawal or amendment of a motion, with the leave of Council, the mover of a motion may withdraw it at any time prior to the motion being put to the vote by the Speaker, provided that there is no dissenting voice. Number 2, a motion which has been withdrawn may not be moved again during the meeting at which it has been withdrawn. Now Speaker, for a motion to be compliant, these three rules must be read together and for a motion to be compliant, it must have both a mover and a seconder.

02:34:27Once the seconder has withdrawn their secondment, it means the motion is no longer compliant and it ceases to be a motion that can serve before Council. Which rule says that? That is the point I'm making, Speaker. So, it's your own discretion, it's your own thinking? Because it's not written there. Councillor, thank you. Thank you for reading the rules for us. We have understood what the rules say. Nowhere there does it say what you have just added at the end. Thank you, Councillor.

Motions: calls for a ruling, rule 120 and the right to debate

02:34:56Point of order, Madam Speaker. Point of order. Point of order, Madam Speaker. Yes, Councillor Mabaso. Thank you so much, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I will request that you rule on this matter because the rules have been ventilated by different political parties in the House and your ruling is final. We also believe that at the time when the motion was submitted, it was compliant and the Programming Committee sat and accepted the motion and it was placed on the order paper of the Council.

02:35:26So the motion is proper, it belongs to the Council now. It has been tabled, it has been seconded in the House when it was tabled here today. So, we request that we proceed with the voting process. Thank you so much. Point of order, Speaker. Thank you. Point of order, Speaker. Point of order, Speaker. Wait, wait, wait. Councillor Mazibuko, before you come in, I've noted two hands, it's you and the Councillor at the back. Wait. We need to agree...

02:35:57Hey! Order, order, Councillors! Order, Councillors! Councillor Mazibuko, you will speak, I've noted you and the Councillor at the back. Then I'm making a ruling on this matter so that we proceed. Over to you, Councillor Mazibuko. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Before you make a ruling, I want to read rule 63 and rule 120, which speaks about the motion. Because the motion has already been put to the House by yourself... Wait, Councillor Mazibuko, we have just read rule 63.

02:36:30Yes, Speaker, I'm linking it with rule 120. Read rule 120. Rule 63 (2) says... Wait, wait, read 120, we have just listened to rule 63. Go to rule 120. After the Speaker has read the number and the name of the mover and the seconder, he or she must ascertain which motions are unopposed and these must be passed without debate and thereafter, the Speaker must call the movers of the opposed motions in the order they appear on the agenda. Rule 120, which speaks to... Let me just quickly open it.

02:37:03It says, a councillor may not address the Council for more than ten minutes on a motion or for more than five minutes on an amendment. The mover of the original motion may, however, speak for five minutes in reply, provided he or she strictly confines himself or herself to answering previous speakers and does not introduce any new matter into the debate.

02:37:29No other councillor may speak more than once on any motion except in committee, provided that a councillor who has spoken on the original motion may speak again after an amendment has been moved and seconded, but only to the amendment. The right of reply shall not extend to the mover of an amendment which, having been carried, has become the substantive motion. After the reply, the Speaker shall put the motion to the vote without further debate.

02:37:57And what we are left with right now, Madam Speaker, is for the debate to happen on the motion that was tabled and seconded by Councillor Mgcina and Councillor [inaudible]. Point of order, Speaker. Thank you, Councillor Mazibuko. I had recognised a hand at the back. Okay, it's Councillor Santana. Go ahead, Councillor Santana, then I'll make a ruling. Thank you very much, Speaker. Look, I'm not going to quote any rules, because I think the rules have been exhausted.

Speaker's ruling that the two motions proceed to a vote

02:38:26Now, my point here, Speaker, is let us test the validity of this motion. We are going to vote now. If you don't agree with the motion, vote against it. Then we move forward. Thank you very much, Speaker. Point of order, Speaker. Point of order, Speaker. Point of order, Speaker. No, wait, Councillor Ashley, you can't be points of ordering the whole day. We are clear. Now I'm making a ruling on this matter. Wait, you are not even recognised. Please switch off your mic. Switch off your mic, Councillor Sauls.

02:38:57I have not recognised you. And I did indicate that I'm taking two hands, then I'm going to make a ruling on this matter. Wait, I've not recognised you, Councillor. No, Speaker, we have a right... You see now, you are out of order. You are out of order, Councillor Sauls, because I've not recognised you. Wait. You see what you are doing? Can you switch off your mic? Councillors, order! Can I make a ruling? Look at me in the eye. Look at me in the eye, Speaker!

02:39:26No, Councillor Kunene, you are becoming something else in this Council. I just don't know what to call you. Look at me in the eye. Because you are out of order. Look at me in the eye! You are out of order! Look at me in the eye, Speaker! Councillors, we are proceeding. I've called upon the IEC to come forward. We have two motions that have been tabled, moved and seconded. And the first motion was moved by Councillor Mgcina, seconded by Councillor Nonkumbi.

02:39:56And the second motion was moved by Councillor Da Rocha and seconded by CouncillorLeitch. Those are the two motions that we are going to be voting on. Now, the ruling that I'm making on this matter that we have been debating the whole morning... Wait, Councillor Kunene, allow me to speak. Allow me to speak. The ruling is, this motion was... When we sat in the Programming Committee... Wait, wait, wait! You see now, you are drowning me, Councillor Sauls.

02:40:26When we sat in the Programming Committee, the motion was compliant, it was accepted. Today in the morning, wait, it was moved and seconded. So, we are proceeding with the two motions to vote. May I call upon the IEC to come forward and take us through the process? Wait, Councillor Sauls, I've made a ruling on this matter. No, it's a different matter, Madam Speaker. What is the matter? Let me hear you, then it's the last time I'm going to allow you to speak. Go ahead. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

02:40:56It is a point of clarity and a point of privilege, because our name is being used... Which rule is that, of clarity? You are asking me what is my point, so I'm explaining it to you. Which rule is that? No, you didn't ask me which rule. You asked me what's my point, because I said it's a different matter. Now I'm answering you. Can I answer you? Go ahead, Councillor. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Our name as the PA has been mentioned in this Council as having seconded a motion to remove you. We need to put it on record, we have withdrawn our secondment.

02:41:25Therefore, it cannot be... Wait, wait! Councillor Sauls, we have passed that. And I've made a ruling on it. No, you didn't rule on the withdrawal. I've made a ruling on it, Councillor Sauls. We are not going to entertain that matter again. IEC, over to you. Wait, we are now in the voting process. Can we allow the IEC to take us through the process? Over to you, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker, and good afternoon, Councillors.

02:41:55Wait, we are in the voting process, Councillor. What point of order are you raising? Speaker, I'm raising a point of order in terms of rule 120, which was read by Councillor Mazibuko, which is that we have a right to debate the motion before it is put to the vote. Wait, wait! Why are we going straight to the vote when we haven't had the opportunity to debate the motion? Look at me in the eye, Speaker! Look at me in the eye! Councillor, wait. Look at me in the eye! Wait, Councillor. You know, Councillor Kunene, if you continue doing what you are doing, I'm going to chuck you out of this House.

02:42:25Because I've been tolerant with you since morning. You are continuously disrupting this Council. And you know Rule 72 gives me powers to chuck you out if you are continuously disrupting this Council. I am not going to warn you again. It's the last time I'm warning you. Thank you. Look at me in the eye! Councillor, can we go back to the motion? Let's go to the motion.

02:42:52The motion of Councillor Mgcina and the motion of Councillor Da Rocha does not have debates. That's how they were submitted in the Programming Committee. It's item 3 and item 4 on the agenda. If you look at them, there is no debate allocated to them because the movers of the motions did not request any debate on these motions. Wait, Councillor! That is why we are going straight to voting, because there were no debates allocated as per the request of the movers.

Voting process disrupted and meeting adjourned

02:43:24When you submit a motion, you request a debate in the Programming Committee. None of the two movers requested debates. Thank you. IEC, can you take us through the process? No, Speaker, point of order! Wait, we are in the voting process now. There is no point of order that I'm going to allow. Over to you, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Just to take the House through the process that we are going to follow... Point of order, Speaker!

02:43:52Wait, I've ruled that we are in the voting process. I am not taking any hands now. Thank you. Can you respect the IEC? Over to you, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Just to take the House through the process that we are going to follow... Point of order, Speaker! We have prepared ballot papers... Wait, IEC, can you hold on? Yes, Councillor, what's your point of order? Thank you very much, Speaker. Look, earlier you allowed Councillor Mazibuko to read rule 120.

02:44:24And rule 120 is very clear that before a motion is put to the vote, Councillors must be given an opportunity to debate the motion. Now, Speaker, we cannotcherry-pick the rules as and when they suit us. Rule 120 was read by Councillor Mazibuko and you allowed her to read it, and you agreed with her. Now we want to debate the motion before we vote on it, Speaker. We have a right as Councillors in this House to debate this motion before we vote on it. You cannot stifle debates in this House, Speaker!

02:44:53Can I respond to you, Councillor? In the Programming Committee, when motions are submitted, the movers of the motions request debates. And the Programming Committee allocates times for debates. None of the two motions... the movers did not request any debates. That is why there are no debates allocated on the order paper. And we adopted the agenda as it is.

02:45:21None of you raised that when we were adopting the agenda. So we are proceeding with the voting process. Over to you, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker. We have prepared ballot papers for the two motions... Point of order, Speaker! Wait, I'm not taking any points of order. We are in the voting process. Over to you, IEC. No, Speaker! Wait, Councillor! You can't be disrupting the voting process. We are in the voting process now.

02:45:52IEC, please proceed. Thank you, Madam Speaker. As I was saying, we have prepared ballot papers...Wait, wait, IEC. Hold on. Councillors, can we behave? Hon. Councillors, can we behave? We are in the voting process now. Can we allow the IEC to conduct the voting process?

02:46:20Proceed, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Wait, Councillor! Switch off your mic. Switch off your mic, Councillor. I have not recognised you. And I've indicated that we are in the voting process. No points of order will be allowed during the voting process. Proceed, IEC. Wait, wait, IEC. Hold on.

02:46:50Can the tech team mute all the mics and only allow the IEC mic to work? Because clearly Councillors want to disrupt the voting process. Proceed, IEC. Thank you, Madam Speaker. As I was explaining, we are going to use the roll call list...

02:47:25Wait, IEC. Hold on. Councillors, what is the problem? Why are you standing? Why are you coming to the podium? Can you go back to your seats so that we proceed with the voting process?

02:47:58Councillors, I've ruled that we are in the voting process. Why are you disrupting the IEC? Why are you disrupting the IEC, Councillors? Can you go back to your seats?

02:49:00Councillors, can you please take your seats? Can you please take your seats, Councillors? You are disrupting the Council meeting. And you know that in terms of the rules, you are not supposed to be doing what you are doing right now. Can you go back to your seats so that we can proceed with the business of the day?

02:50:40Councillors, I'm asking you for the last time to go back to your seats so that the Council can proceed with the business of the day.

02:53:10Councillors, because of the disruption that is happening right now in Council, I'm going to adjourn the meeting for 15 minutes to allow the Whips of the different political parties to meet with me so that we can resolve this impasse. The meeting is adjourned for 15 minutes. Thank you.

Resumption and withdrawal of Items 4 and 18

03:04:11Councillors let's settle down. Councillor Lwanda Bini at the back I'll start calling you guys, you colleagues by name. MMC MMC Kunene you asked for a caucus break.

03:04:39Eh, thank you very much Madam Speaker eh we are done and eh thank you very much. We're aligned.

03:04:53Thank you MMC Kunene.

03:04:58Eh, Councillors we are resuming on item.

03:05:02MMC Masuku.

03:05:07Thank you very much Madam Speaker. Must do this in honor of Councillor Nonkumbi. Thank you Madam Speaker um Madam Speaker on behalf of the executive we would like to withdraw item four which is the status report on the MSCOA compliance in the City of Johannesburg item four. Would also like to withdraw item 18 which is the recruitment process on the City Manager, thank you.

03:05:50Noted MMC item four and item 18 is withdrawn.

Items 1 to 3: 2023/24 annual report and related reports

03:06:04Eh Councillors we're still on recommendations to council we are back on item one which is the tabling of the 2023/24 City of Johannesburg group annual report for the year ended 30th June 2024 read together with item two which is corrective action taken or to be taken on Auditor General's findings on 2023/24 integrated annual report of the city and lastly read it with item three which is the group governance preliminary assessment evaluation and rating of 2023/24 integrated annual report of MEs against the international integrated reporting framework Municipal Finance Management Act circular 63, Municipal Systems Act and King IV code of corporate governance.

03:06:59Councillors item number one is for noting, is the report noted? Thank you.

Items 5 and 6: MFMA in-year financial reports for August and September 2024

03:07:13We proceed with item five which is City of Johannesburg MFMA in-year financial report.

03:07:48MMC.

03:07:54Speaker through you we would like to request uh that we do item five and six together. So if the Secretary could please uh read them together through the records, thank you.

03:08:06Concurrently, no problem.

03:08:40Item five Councillors is uh City of Johannesburg MFMA in-year financial report uh for the period ended 31st August 2024 read together with item six which is the City of Johannesburg MFMA uh in-year financial report for the period ended 30th September 2024.

03:09:02Thank you Secretary to council. We'll start with Freedom Front, Councillor Boer.

03:09:11Good afternoon Madam Speaker um fellow Councillors, Acting Mayor. I rise on item five and item number six um and I first want to point out that those Section 71 reports have not served on the Section 79 finance committee for oversight um so we were not able to do oversight on these reports which is really concerning.claim

03:09:36Uh furthermore concerning is that we're giving the reports for August and September last year. We're sitting at the end of January 2025. National Treasury gets these reports 10 days after the end of the month, so the question is where are the reports for October, November, December? We've got no idea how the city's finances are looking at the moment except for a little bit information that is uh given for the period up until the end of September.claim

03:10:07What is however very concerning that our debtors, people owing the city money has gone up to 60 billion rand. That is unpaid money due to the city. Um another even more concerning point is that our creditors those are the people that we buy services from.claim

03:10:30And our KPI is that those uh amounts have to be paid within 30 days. Our creditors are up from 2 billion rand in 2023 September to 8.3 billion in September 2024. We owe 8.3 billion rand to suppliers. Um 1.1 billion of those are over 150 days our KPI says we have to pay them within 30 days.claim

03:11:001.1 billion is over five months. We are on a very concerning path Madam Speaker on our city's finances um a another very concerning factor is that City Power is losing 1.6 billion rand per month for the last three months that is July, August, September. So in those three months alone City Power lost 4.8 billion. Madam Speaker this is a very concerning picture that comes out of our reports and I don't know how October, November and December are looking like.claim

03:11:35Um even more concerning in the report for September it says the collection rate for rates was 63%. Our normal collection rate for rates is about 95 98%. The report says all deviations of more than 5% are uh explained in the report, there's no explanation why the collection rate on rates drop from 98% to 63%. Madam Speaker that is a massive drop and I won't use the Afrikaans word for that, that it is a massive drop from 98 to 63%, why?claim

03:12:09Why is the council not given information on on the affairs of the of the city's finances? Just now on one of the other items you come to us to ask for a loan. We cannot judge if we can afford a loan yes or no based on this type of information and we really urge executive business to supply us or firstly the Section 79 committee and secondly the council with up-to-date reliable reports, thank you very much.claim

03:12:36Thank you Councillor Boer. ACDP, Councillor Mkhonza.

03:12:43Yes um shalom shalom Madam Speaker. Um allow me to first acknowledge our almighty God, eternally existent in three persons, God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. I greet you all in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ, amen. Amen. Before I start my speech eh Madam Speaker allow me to quote from my guiding manual, the holy Bible in Proverbs 22 verse three it reads as follows, a prudent person with insight foresees danger coming and prepares himself for it.

03:13:17But the senseless rush blindly forward and suffer the consequences. These reports eh Madam Speaker, we've got them very late, four months later. The ACDP caucus notes the in-year report ending 31st August and the other one 30th September. While we acknowledge the submission of this report, we wish to highlight a key concern, the significant delay in receiving the Section 71 reports. As the ACDP we believe that these reports when submitted within the 10-day period to the finance committee provide critical insight into the financial health of the municipality.claim

03:13:53However, when these reports are delayed by more than four months their value for effective oversight is greatly diminished. Timeliness is essential for ensuring that council can fulfill its responsibility of holding the executive accountable and making informed decisions in the best interest of the residents of Johannesburg. Receiving these reports on time will enable us to one, monitor the municipality's budget allowing for a clear comparison between actual revenue and budgeted figures to date.

03:14:21Two, it would allow us also to timeously assess actual expenditure per vote, review capital expenditure per vote and understand any material variances from the approved budget. Lastly this timely information allows council to make real-time adjustment and take corrective actions where necessary to ensure the municipality remains on track with its financial commitments and obligations. Most importantly, it provides the necessary tools to implement effective controls and measures to protect public funds and resources.

03:14:55Therefore we make a humble plea to the Executive Mayor and his team. We urge that these Section 71 reports be forwarded to the finance committee immediately upon receipt from the accounting officer. Timely submission will empower council to carry out its oversight duties more effectively and ensure that the budget is managed responsibly for the benefit of all the residents of Johannesburg.

03:15:21As the ACDP we continue to pray and work for an improved quality of life of our residents, crime-free, well-maintained and clean City of Johannesburg. God bless Africa, South Africa especially our soldiers in the eastern DRC, their families who lost their loved ones. The people of North Sudan where literally there is no country. We also pray for the peace of the Middle East, the Palestinians and the existence and the protection of the only Jewish state in the world, Israel, her people and the unconditional release of all the remaining hostages. God bless you. Amen.

03:16:00Thank you Councillor Mkhonza. DA, Councillor Santana.

03:16:07Thank you Speaker I rise to speak on item five and six the in-year MFMA reports for August and September. Madam Speaker I've been largely covered by my two colleagues from the ACDP and the Freedom Front. Um, but just to add insult to injury we have yet to even have the first quarter reports serving in this council and then you give us August and September in-year reporting. The last year report which was in July was in October for the MFMA Section 71 reports. So when I look at what's transpiring in our councilclaim

03:16:40and just to bring it back and I keep on raising this issue, the Mayor is in contravention of the Section 52 of the MFMA point four. The Mayor must within 30 days after the quarter bring to council the relevant quarterly reports specifically on the finance items. Now 120 days gone past we still don't have them. So I don't think our Executive Mayor actually takes us serious enough in council. We get reports that we can't even uh give feedback on, we can't even do oversight on.claim

03:17:15We're gonna get the supply chain management reports that the Leader of Executive Business keeps on throwing at us saying council is the highest decision, that we can't do oversight. So the executive continuously stifles our oversight as council and it's your department as the legislature in holding that legislative um arm, it's you Speaker. So we requesting from you please that you start instructing the executive to fulfill its obligations to ensure we get our reports timeously.claim

03:17:45I'm asking you, I'll send it to you formally as well. But be that as it may what's stifling our cash flow position because this is where we find ourselves hemorrhaging in the City of Johannesburg is the continuously losses of collecting revenue. The entities continuously pursuing unabated spending money which they don't technically have. So if we look at City Power its overdraft facility now sits at 16.25 billion, JDA 1.2 billion,claim

03:18:18JOSHCO at 1.6, Metrobus at 600 million, MTC at 908 million, MTC at 980 million, the Propco portfolio at 118 million and roads at 170 million rand. We've asked for turnaround strategies, we still don't get them. City Power strategy was put came in council um towards the end of last year, it was passed by council and yet we get no tracking in the council on how we actually measuring up against what they've said to us their turnaround strategy is.claim

03:18:49But you're going to ask me in the next item to approve a 2.8 billion rand loan. Would you stifle information to council? What are we holding back? Why are we not sharing information so as council we can collectively do what's right in the best interest of the City of Johannesburg and its residents? If it means we have to do drastic measures so be it, well let's us make those decisions collectively ensure that we're on the right track. Madam Speaker if we look at the collection rate,claim

03:19:21at the current collection rate I don't even think we have ability to take on any further loans to be honest until we actually fix the core issues. I've raised here, I've stood here many a time asking where are we in terms of our uh restructuring plan for the City of Johannesburg? Where's our institutional review? Still nothing comes to council, still nothing happens. In fact we keep on being an employment agency we keep on employing people instead of restructuring the city to make it cost effective even for our residents.claim

03:19:52So until such time unfortunately Madam Speaker I don't know what to say. But our debtors book is growing at an alarming rate. Currently sitting at the end of September at 60 billion. Who knows what it's like at the end of December? I'm sure we're probably going to be sitting at 63 billion if my estimates work out at 63 billion rand outstanding in our debtors book. Of course the majority of that being households, the other lot being commercial and then the remainder being uh organs of state. So I do feel that we need to put politics aside.

03:20:24I do feel we have to have honest and open conversations with each other to try and make a trajectory for the City of Johannesburg which will pull us out of the issues that we find ourselves in collectively and I'm asking that to you through you Speaker. I thank you.claim

03:20:43Thank you Councillor Santana. Action SA, Councillor Nkonyeni.

03:20:52Thank you Madam Speaker. Eh greetings to everybody in the gallery, left. Unlike Councillor Santana I actually do know what to say eh Madam Speaker. Action SA would like to express its dissatisfaction with receiving such old reports as colleagues have previously alluded. These reports are quarter one reports Madam Speaker and we are in quarter three of the financial year. All we're asking for is more recent reports not older than 60 days so that we can robustly interrogate them.

Section 71 reports (items 5 and 6): ActionSA, EFF and ANC comments

03:21:28We are not eh going to interrogate old, inaccurate information and I say inaccurate because there may have been many changes over the last few months or even a month ago. Therefore we plead with Maycom to bring more recent reports to this council. I think we cannot stress this enough eh even the colleagues have stressed it Madam Speaker. Our main concern is that City Power, JDA, JOSHCO, Metrobus, the Propcom portfolio and MTC remain overdrawn. This means that their accounts are in the minus so we really need to start applying business rescue practices and implementing a turnaround strategy for these dismally performing entities.

03:22:10Action SA is willing to assist with turning things around.

03:22:14isiZuluIngakho sithi, sivumeleni sinincede ayinabungozi lento, kodwa bukhona ubungozi uma sihluleka ukufinyelela kwi-collection target ka-88.4%.

03:22:25For the benefit of others, especially those who are in, who are constantly blue and moody. Action SA is concerned that in this report and the September report, our revenue collection was 85.5% and 84.3% respectively. This is below our collection target of 88.4%. Another area of concern is the fact that the public transport network grant that the city receives from National Treasury was awarded partially because of non-compliance in supply chain tender processes and the poor uptake of passenger numbers as well as the delayed roll out of the phase 1C Rea Vaya project.

03:23:08There seems to be a lot happening in the transport department and quite frankly it is embarrassing.

03:23:14AfrikaansNou by sy ons ver eers.

03:23:17Maybe we just need to stick to sports and soccer tickets. In closing Madam Speaker only Action SA can fix the city just like how Dr. Nasiphi Moya is fixing Tshwane.

03:23:29isiZuluNgibonge.

03:23:36Thank you Councillor Nkonyeni. EFF, Councillor Nethamba.

03:23:50Speaker greetings to the caucus leader of the EFF Sepetlele Raseruthe, Chief Whip of the EFF Charles Mogapi on the absentia. Greetings to the 29 battalion of the EFF not forget to MMC in their absentia. Greetings to all Councillors. I greet you all in the name of expropriation of land without compensation. Eh Speaker this report highlights the continuously decline on the city's collection rate.

03:24:23The year to date collection rate as at 31st August of 2024 was at 85.5% which is below the budgeted collection rate of 88.4%. It is clear that we all need to pull our socks or we will have absolute no funds to run the city. Although we agree that there should be intervention, those intervention must not put more burden to the citizen of Johannesburg.claim

03:24:55We need to be mindful of the fact that the increment in fees, the economy and the high unemployment rate have already put citizen under pressure financially and we cannot add more to their plate. Instead we need to find ways to meet each other halfway. As part of the intervention the report states that in August 2024 electricity disconnection identified were to the value of 1.7 billion.claim

03:25:27This is concerning and we need to really zoom into how we allow this debt to get to this point if the department are doing what they need to be doing. 2,237 account identified for disconnection. We all know that majority of these are in places where the city is still struggling with service delivery and we hope thatclaim

03:25:59City Power will deal with this on a case by case basis and that our indigent citizen will be will not fall into this and get cut off because they don't afford. At the bottom of all this we need a functional city for all, we need to stabilize the finance of the city. We need to collectively go to the ground and listen to our people, come up with strategies that will work for all who stays in the City of Joburg. As the EFF we note the report, thank you.

03:26:39Thank you Councillor. ANC, Councillor Sindani.

03:26:48Greetings Speaker. Greetings to the Executive Mayor in absentia. Greetings to the Acting Mayor Councillor Mabaso. Greetings to the caucus of the African National Congress. Speaker we do acknowledge the fact that these reports they arrive extremely late and we urge the executive to speak to the officials and make sure that we get these reports timeously so that we will be able to

03:27:22have a proper analysis and interrogate these reports because in the absence of the reports arriving on time it gives us a problem. Having said that we do also acknowledge MMC Sekwaila for the collection that we are currently doing and we are cognisant of the fact that the most people who are owing it is business more than the residents. So we will try by all means to make sure that the collection

03:27:53reaches the maximum, the target that it has been set. So we must reiterate that those who support and those who are on the side of the business they must talk to their friends and colleagues that they must pay the city so that we'll be able to run the city effectively. Thank you very much the ANC notes the report.

MMC Arnolds responds on the financial performance reports

03:28:17Thank you Councillor Sindani. MMC Arnolds.

03:28:24Thank you Madam Speaker. Apologies my voice might just decide to go. Um Madam Speaker let me begin by apologizing for the time lag.

03:28:54My time has been kept for this? It was not me it was the fan. Madam Speaker let me begin by apologizing for the time lag in getting these reports to council. They were affected this time by the scheduling of committee meetings as well as the end of year recess. And I don't think that is a an apology that we can always come here and give. We take note of the comments made by fellow Councillors on improvement required to improve the financial performance of the cityclaim

03:29:28which is a definite it should happen. In the month of August the actual year-to-date revenue variance is 14%. 1.8 billion over performance mainly as a result of the city receiving the first trenches of major grants such as USDG, informal settlement upgrades and equitable share. These grants are received in three trenches in line with the DORA grantclaim

03:30:00schedule, however, in the budget, the amounts are spread in equal portions across the 12 months. Collection rate: how can we improve on that? Councillor Boer,claim

03:30:17Afrikaansons kan baie goed doen as onsself wat as raadslede hier sit onse rekeninge betaal. Daar is vyf van ons wat hier sit wat nie onse rekeninge betaal nie, en dis geld wat na die stad toe moet kom. Nee, nie nou nie. Dis nog nie tyd daarvoor nie.claim

03:30:42We must also ask ourselves, what are we doing in ensuring that our residents also pay for their for their services? And I won't stand away from it and shy away from it that we are the people that assist them not to collect, and we are the people that says to them, "Don't pay for services." But number three, there was a councillor that said it only happens inclaim

03:31:13the non-affluent areas. Don't fool yourself, councillor. It happens all over. There are five Mercedes-Benz and a whatever car, and they still bridge electricity. So it doesn't only happen in the small four-rooms in Soweto or in Eldos or in Riverlea, it happens in the big places too. The actual operating expenditure is under budget by 3%,claim

03:31:44481 million. This will improve in the course of the year as procurement processes get concluded and spending is fast-tracked. The capital budget for the 2024 financial year amounts to 7.4 billion, and total actual expenditure, excluding commitments to date, amounts to 353 million, 5% of the medium-term budget. Many departmentsclaim

03:32:15are still to record expenditures as they are still in procurement stage of their projects. The total opening and closing investment balance, including cash for the month of August 2024, were 2.8 billion and 3 billion respectively. Cash outflows were less inflows, resulting in a positive movement on the overall cash balances.

03:32:47The actual year-to-date revenue variance is 9%, 1.7 billion above budget, again due to the grants received in the first quarter as indicated in the August report. In September, we began to see an uptick in expenditure results in a narrowing of the variance on it against

03:33:17budget to less than 1% this month. Of the council-approved capital budget of 7.4 billion, total actual expenditure, excluding commitments to date, amounts to 806 million, 11% of the medium-term budget. The total investment budget, including cash for the month of September 2024, decreased by 672 million

03:33:48during the month with a closing balance of 2.6 billion. From time to time, the city will experience cash flow mismatches due to the timing of some of the major budgeted inflows, such as grants and loans, that come at specific times during the year. I thank you, Madam Speaker, and I thank you everybody in council.

03:34:18Thank you, MMC Arnolds. Item 5 and item 6 are for information.

Item 7 (DBSA R2.8bn short-term loan): ACDP and GOOD oppose

03:34:41year from Development Bank of South Africa.

03:34:51Speaker on this item, Councillor Harris.

03:34:58Greetings once again, Madam Speaker, all protocols observed. The current executive and its supporters have very short memories. There was a time when former MMC Suddaby came to this council requesting approval for a similar loan. The clamour from the opposition ranged from polite refusal to downright rude. Now, when the shoe is on the other foot,

03:35:27we are asked to support this request to enter into a similar agreement. On the one hand, the money is required to bolster the medium-term budget to improve service delivery, considering this KPI came in at a disappointing and troubling 41% of target. On the other hand, we must consider the realities if we are to be responsible. The non-current liabilities, which is loans and borrowings, currently stands at 17.6claim

03:35:57billion rand. We are asked to increase this by another 2.8. The debtors' book, as has been said previously, stands at 60 billion rand. That means 60 billion rand of money is owed to the city, and we can't collect it. The city appears to be dragging its feet in the legal battle with Eskom to retrieve the over 3 billion rand for alleged wrongful charges. Fruitless and wasteful expenditure is consistently at consistently high levels withclaim

03:36:28nearly 755 million rand reported. In the AG report, it is defined as the expenditure that was made in vain and would have been avoided had reasonable care been exercised. When the ACDP supported the loan the last time, it was in the hope that a portion of these funds would go towards improving the council housing stock and the old-age homes, specifically in Ward 68claim

03:36:58and Ward 82. To date, we have seen absolutely nothing, and there is no commitment that these funds, or some of it, will be spent on the citizens of Johannesburg. There is thus no point in supporting this request when, in effect, the support is merely rubber-stamping the unequal disbursement of the budget. The ACDP does not approve of the short-term loan agreement between the City of Johannesburg and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. I thank you.claim

03:37:32Thank you, Councillor Harris. Good, Councillor Cook.

03:37:39Madam Speaker, the proposed short-term loan facility amounting to 2.8 billion from the Development Bank of Southern Africa raises significant concerns regarding the City of Joburg's financial sustainability and strategic priorities. While addressing short-term cash flow mismatches is very much a necessary consideration, reliance on such borrowing introduces risks that could have long-term negative implications for the city's fiscal health. As such,claim

03:38:09we strongly oppose the approval of this loan on the following grounds: escalating financial burden and debt-servicing costs. The loan will further increase the city's financial liabilities, contributing to an unsustainable debt burden. The floating interest rate structure of a three-month JIBAR plus 2.3% means that the debt-servicing costs could rise unpredictably, placing additional strain on the city's budget and limiting resources available for service deliveryclaim

03:38:40and development initiatives. Given the floating interest rate structure of the loan, the cost of borrowing is subject to fluctuations in the JIBAR rate. If market conditions lead to an increase in interest rates, the city could be forced to pay significantly more than initially projected. The requirement to repay the loan by the 30th of June 2025 also presents a substantial risk, particularly given that the city's ongoing financial challenges. If cash flow mismatches persist

03:39:11beyond the projected timeframe, the city could face difficulties in meeting its repayment obligations, potentially leading to financial penalties or the need to further borrow to settle the debt, creating a cycle of dependency on short-term loans. Committing to this short-term loan facility may divert financial resources away from essential long-term infrastructure investments and service delivery programs. Instead of allocating funds towards repaying debt, the city should be prioritizing economic

03:39:41development initiatives that generate sustainable revenue streams and improve the quality of life for all residents. The opportunity cost of this loan must be critically evaluated in relation to its actual benefits. In conclusion, given the outlined risks and concerns, it is imperative that the city explores alternative financial strategies that do not compromise its long-term financial stability. Strengthening revenue generation, improving budgetary controls,

03:40:11and implementing cost-saving measures should be prioritized over short-term borrowing. We urge council to reject the proposed loan agreement with the DBSA and instead focus sustainable fiscal management solutions that ensure the city's long-term economic viability.

Item 7: ATM and UDM support the loan

03:40:32Thank you, Councillor Cook. ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

03:40:49Speaker, ATM supports the sourcing of a loan to keep the city afloat financially. The city's primary objective is to deliver services to residents of Johannesburg. For these services to be sustainably delivered, the city requires money. When there's no sufficient revenue in the coffers of the city, borrowing is inevitable. Speaker, we should also note that this loan is part of the funding model that was approved by this council. This loan allows

03:41:20us to manage the cash flow mismatches that occur from time to time. Yes, Speaker, in the eyes of the public, a loan is a sign of desperation and definitely not a desired way of how the city should run its affairs. The city should at all times have sufficient funds in its purse all the time. Speaker, as we embark on the loan path, let us also set in motion a fact-finding mission regarding the dire state of affairs about

03:41:51the city's finances. Maybe we need to rethink our expenditure patterns, especially as it relates to capital expenditure. We cannot continue to live from hand to mouth. One key source of the city's revenue is through payment of municipal services. This is water, electricity, waste removal, sewage, and property rates. Each of us here as councillors, especially those who own properties, should

03:42:22introspect and inquire if we are not contributing to the city's financial challenges. How many councillors do not pay for their municipal services? Right here, right now, how many councillors are in arrears as we speak? The fact of the matter is that we need to demonstrate seriousness and commitment about revenue collection. Besides approving the much-needed loan as an immediate and necessary action, the city needs to embark on an aggressive

03:42:53credit control. Everyone who owes the city must be pursued and made to account. Speaker, civic education will also play an important role in this regard. Speaker, as the ATM, we support this much-needed loan. Peace in our land, peace in our lifetime. Thank you.

03:43:13Thank you, Councillor Magwentshu. UDM, Councillor Zigebe.

03:43:21Honourable Speaker, this is a critical decision that has the potential to stabilize the City of Johannesburg's cash flow and ensure the seamless continuation of municipal services. The proposed 2.8 billion short-term loan from the DBSA for the 2024/2025 financial year is not only a prudent financial move, but also an essential one for effective governance. The City of Johannesburg, like any other metropolitanclaim

03:43:51municipality, encounters periodic cash flow mismatches. These imbalances arise due to variations in revenue collection cycles, expenditure commitments, and external economic factors. By securing this loan, we ensure that essential services such as water, electricity, sanitation, and waste management continue uninterrupted. This is a responsible and proactive approach that prioritizes service delivery over financial constraints. The proposal aligns with Section 45 of

03:44:21the Municipal Finance Management Act, which permits short-term borrowing to bridge cash flow gaps, provided repayment is made within the financial year. Additionally, Section 110(2) of the MFMA supports the choice of DBSA as a funding source, ensuring full compliance with legal and constitutional requirements. The approval of this loan by the Executive Adjudication Committee further validates its necessity and adherence to

03:44:52governance protocols. The indicative pricing of the loan at a floating rate of three-month JIBAR plus a 2.30% margin represents a cost-effective financing solution. Compared to other commercial borrowing options, this arrangement offers competitive pricing, reducing the overall debt-servicing burden on the city's finances. Notably, the interest margin has decreased from 2.55% in the previous year to 2.30%,claim

03:45:23demonstrating an improvement in borrowing terms. The city's multi-year funding plan, as approved on 14 June 2023, underscores the importance of strategic financial planning. By integrating short-term and long-term borrowing strategies, the city ensures sustainable financial health while minimizing risk exposure. Beyond mere financial maneuvering, this loan serves a larger purpose. It safeguards service delivery. The City of Johannesburg must remain agile in responding toclaim

03:45:54community needs, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency situations. Delays in accessing funds can lead to disruptions affecting businesses, households, and overall economic activity of the city. Approving this loan is a step towards fortifying the city's liquidity position, preventing financial distress, and ensuring uninterrupted operations. The proposed debt management strategy includes a structured repayment plan within the financial year, avoiding long-term fiscal burden.

03:46:24By leveraging a trusted development finance institution like DBSA, we maintain financial discipline while addressing pressing needs. In conclusion, Speaker, we strongly advocate for the council's approval of the DBSA short-term loan agreement. It is a well-structured, cost-effective, and legally compliant financial solution that safeguards the interest of our city. This is not just a loan, it is a tool to enhance financial resilience, sustain service delivery, and uphold

03:46:54good governance. Thank you.

Item 7: Freedom Front Plus and DA oppose

03:46:58Thank you, Councillor Zigebe. Freedom Front Plus, Councillor Pool.

03:47:05Once again, good afternoon to you, Madam Speaker. This item number 7 puts us literally between the devil and the deep blue sea, and I will explain now why. On page 7.1, we must please just stop copying and pasting. It says on 7.1, "with the current extended contract expiring on 1 November 2023." We are already in 2025. This contract has expired

03:47:35in November 2023. It was extended about four or five times already, so please get the reports right. Why do I say between the devil and the deep blue sea? The city needs this bridging finance to get all the projects going, capital projects as well. So the city needs the cash, that we cannot afford the cash. Item 6.7, out of their mouth here, it says,

03:48:06"The current collection in the month of September, the city still faces a risk to the funding of the budget due to the cumulative underperformance of prior and current financial years." So we admit ourselves that we are not funded these loans. This loan need to be repaid at the end of June this year, in five months' time. We know that we do not have the funds to repay this loan. So what will happen?

03:48:36We will come to council to ask for another 2.5 or a 2.8 or a 3 billion long-term loan. Madam Speaker, through to you, MMC, we cannot afford this. Our financial results 2023/2024 closed off with a loss of 2.3 billion. Now, in any situation, if you make a loss, you don't have money available to even repay your debts. So we cannot incur debt because we are not able to repay.

03:49:07So on the one hand, we need to support this item, but then we run the danger of being placed under administration. Then we are even further away from home. So the Freedom Front does not support this loan. We have given solutions to go and collect money. Water owes to the city 32 billion. Go and collect 10% of that, 3.2 billion, and we don't need to apply for a 2.8 billion rand loan. Go and

03:49:39increase the deposits of our residents. There are many ways to collect money, but firstly, go out, communicate with our residents that we need to pay for our services in order to be able to render services. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

03:49:59Thank you, Councillor Pool. DA, Councillor Santana.

03:50:04Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, I rise to speak on item 7, the short-term loan 2024/2025 financial year from the DBSA. Madam Speaker, once again, we are asked to commit fraud in council for the lack of information provided to us. If the information is provided openly and honestly...

03:50:26Councillor Santana, please hold on. Councillors, can we please respect the councillor on the floor? Councillor Santana, you may continue.

03:50:34Thank you, Speaker. If information was freely and readily available, these issues of us standing here commenting on stuff that we don't have on the reports would not be an issue. But it's an issue every time we stand in council. I've stood here repeatedly asking for information timesly, continuously asking for our reports. The fact that we don't even have a repayment plan on the actual item itself, we don't even have what it's being used for, and yet you're asking us to approve a 2.8 billion rand loanclaim

03:51:05for the City of Johannesburg. In principle, I actually don't have an issue. The Democratic Alliance does not have an issue with it in principle on the basis it does form part of our funding mix, granted. But there are certain requirements that need to be met. One of them is to ensure that we collect our debtors' book and our collection rate is within the parameters, and that's not the case. But you're asking us to then approve a loan. So I share the same sentiments as Councillor Boer. We cannot implement loans if we're not collecting.

03:51:35Our debtors' book continues to grow. We are not dealing with the core problem of collection. If we had to collect the 16 billion, trust me, we wouldn't need any of these loans. You all know that. We'd actually have enough money to do infrastructure, capital infrastructure, with the money that is needed and to be collected by the city. But the attempts that we do... and unfortunately, it's a historic issue where it was politically motivated not to pay for services.

03:52:05So the question is, how do we change that aspect of our communities not wanting to pay? Not those who say they want to pay, I'm addressing those not wanting to pay because of previous political dispensation issues. We have to come past that. We need this money in order to ensure that the City of Johannesburg can provide services to everybody within the City of Johannesburg. We can protect the poor on the ESP programs. We can't do that in the current situation when so much money is owed

03:52:36that we're not collecting, and you're asking for loans. We've passed that point of actually getting loans. We need to do a complete restructure of the City of Johannesburg. Stop telling me you're employing people. If we are employing people, it's for the people to do work on the ground, not your top management. Stop telling me about you want to open up another entity. That's not where we should be going. We should be restructuring and resizing the City of Johannesburg to ensure that we get the outcome that is required. So like I said, in principle, we have no issue with the loan,

03:53:07but we have an issue with the lack of information there to make an informed decision as council. So therefore, unfortunately, the Democratic Alliance cannot support this loan. Thank you.

Item 7: ActionSA, EFF and ANC

03:53:21Thank you, Councillor. ActionSA, Councillor Nkonyeni.

03:53:34Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings once again, colleagues, all protocol observed. ActionSA has many a time made it clear in this council that the city should improve its revenue collection so that we do not have to rely on loans to fulfill our financial obligations. The city is just not collecting enough revenue. We are concerned that we actually need to fund long-standing Capex projects, such as the Rea Vaya Phase 1C,claim

03:54:05which has stalled for more than five years now. There are many other unfinished projects in our communities that are not complete and are at risk of vandalism. Some of these projects have become white elephants and will end up being written off and declared as wasteful expenditure. It is concerning that in one financial year, the city would have borrowed a total of 5.3 billion, while we have entities such as City Power, Johannesburg Development Agency, JOSHCO, Metrobus, the PropCom portfolio,claim

03:54:36and MTC that are always overdrawn. In simple terms, they are costing the city money. As a city, we should be able to generate enough revenue in order to sustain, maintain, and implement the city's budget. As ActionSA, we have posed questions to the executive and Group Finance highlighting the concerns relating to the repayment of this loan and the potential risks that are associated. We received the responses, and we came to the realization that the city intends to useclaim

03:55:06grant funding from National Treasury to repay the DBSA loan. The grants that the city receives from the National Treasury are meant to supplement the funding of programs and projects, as well as ease the financial burden on our residents, while assisting the city to fulfill its mandate of service delivery. We seem to have budgeted against revenue we do not have. As ActionSA, we realize that it is not financially sound for the city to rely on loans in order to complete projects.

03:55:36However, we support this item on the basis that we need to put residents first. As ActionSA, we will continue to monitor the city's finances, as well as the repayment of this loan. ActionSA supports this item.

03:55:50XitsongaMikhanseli ya ngopfu.

03:56:00Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Zitha, I can hear you all the way from the front. EFF, Councillor Nethamba.

03:56:12Thank you, Speaker. Greetings to the caucus leader of the EFF, Sepetlele Raseruthe, greetings to the 29 battalion of the EFF, greetings to all councillors. I greet you all in the name of expropriation of land without compensation. While left to approve this loan, we remain concerned that the report are not tabled in the Section 79 Oversight Committee to discuss or engage properly. We must scrutinize report for the meaningfulclaim

03:56:43contribution so we are able to make effective decision. Our concern that the debt has now increased to 8 billion. This is under the backdrop of a lower revenue collection. We go to media, promise Eskom that we will pay them. This does very little to bring confidence in the health of our finance because we have to apply for loan to pay our debt. Thank you.claim

03:57:16Thank you, Councillor. ANC, Councillor Radebe.

03:57:25Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings to you, the Executive Mayor in absentia, members of our Mayoral Committee, the Chief Whip, Chair of Chairs, fellow councillors, and the residents of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, I rise on item 7, which is a critical matter of the proposed 2.8 billion loan from the Development Bank of Southern Africa. After a careful analysis of the city'sclaim

03:57:57financial position and the implications of this loan, as the African National Congress and the Government of Local Unity, we firmly believe that supporting this proposal is in the best interest of Johannesburg and its residents, provided that we act with discipline and foresight. Supporting this loan is in line with the funding plan, which was approved by this very same council in June 2023. But, Madam Speaker, we believe that Johannesburg is at a pivotalclaim

03:58:28moment. Our city faces mounting infrastructure demands, service delivery backlog, and growing need to stimulate the economic activity. The 2.8 billion loan offers us an opportunity to do so. There are three particular ways that we can be able to achieve that. Number one, we'll be able to address the critical infrastructure need. This funding is essential for the completion of high-priority projects in water infrastructure, road networks, housing, and electricity. Without it,claim

03:58:58many of these projects may stall, worsening service delivery and eroding public trust. Number two, Madam Speaker, we need to ensure that we stimulate the economic growth. Investment in infrastructure has a multiplier effect. It creates jobs, enhances city's economic competitiveness, attracts private investment. The loan provides us with the resources that will enable us to achieve this. But also, Madam Speaker, we can be able to leverageclaim

03:59:28favorable terms from this particular loan. With the interest of three months JIBAR plus 2.30% and a grace period up until June, this loan is both affordable and strategically timed to allow us to stabilize our finances. But as our fellow councillors have alluded, Madam Speaker, we cannot just approve this loan without, you know, talking about the possible risks. While the benefits of the loan areclaim

04:00:00are clear, we must recognize the associated risks and challenges. Our revenue collection, our revenue collection is not good at all. With 60 billion in outstanding debtors and a collection rate below target, our revenue collection needs significant improvement. We also have serious cash flow constraints. Our cash flow have dwindled to,claim

04:00:20our cash reserves have dwindled to a 2.6 billion based on the last section 71 reports that we got. And we've been complaining that if we get a section 71 report timeously, we'll be able to zoom in to the actual problems in real time. But based on that particular report, that's where we are, while our liabilities stand at a staggering 62.1 billion. This underscores the importance of using this loan judiciously to ensure we do not exacerbate the financial strain in our fiscus.claim

04:00:52But also, Madam Speaker, up to date, still basing it on those legacy reports which we last saw, or the last one that we saw were in September. To date, only 11% of our capital budget has been spent. This indicates a systematic inefficiencies in project execution, and it must be addressed in order for us to be able to use the funds and also improve our financial systems.

04:01:22We also need to ensure, Madam Speaker, that for this loan to deliver the intended benefits without jeopardizing the city's financial health, we must adopt a disciplined approach. We must intensify the enforcement measures to recover outstanding debt and address inefficiencies in billing system. We need to ensure that the loan, the loan, we need to ensure that the loan funds allocated exclusively for high-priority infrastructure program with clear timeline and measurable outcomes.

04:01:51We also need to find a way, maybe I'm also addressing this to our committee in the Section 79, that we need to find a way to establish a dedicated task team to ensure that it monitors the utilization of this loan funds and ensure the compliance of the DBSA loan, because we have reached a point where we need to intensify our oversight into this particular loan.

04:02:14But further, Madam Speaker, we need to avoid additional debt up until revenue collection improves and cash flow stabilizes. Alternative funding mechanism such as public partnership should, public-private partnership, should be explored.

04:02:31As I conclude, Madam Speaker, this loan is not merely an expense. It's an investment into the future of Johannesburg. It is an investment for better roads, reliable water system, decent housing and electricity for our people. It is an investment in an economic growth, job creation and long-term prosperity of our city.

04:02:53However, to fully realize this, the potential of the city, we must act responsibly by addressing the challenges in our financial system. Ensuring strict oversight, we can use this loan to transform Johannesburg into a city of opportunity and progress. I urge all my fellow councilors to approve this particular loan, commit to financial discipline required for this to succeed. Together, Madam Speaker, we can lay a foundation for a brighter future

04:03:22in the City of Johannesburg. A few years ago, Madam Speaker, I had an opportunity to host a minister, a former Minister of Education from Zimbabwe. And in part of our deliberation, she was telling me about the reforms that they were enforcing in Zimbabwe in trying to rebuild their country.

04:03:38And she indicated that one of the things that they've been using, or one of the things that have been inspiring them, is a saying, an ancient saying from their Ndebele language, which says,

04:03:50ndilizwe lilungiswa ngabanini balo.

04:03:52Simply meaning, it is us, the residents of Johannesburg, it is this council, it is the people of Johannesburg working together who can turn around this particular city. And it is us,

04:04:02isiZuluabanini balelizwe,

04:04:03who'll ensure that we've got a better Johannesburg. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Item 7: MMC Arnolds replies

04:04:12Thank you, Councillor Radebe. MMC Arnolds.

04:04:22Thank you, Madam Speaker, and thank you, Councillor Radebe. I don't have to go much in and dwell into the aspect of it being an investment, and how we are able to pay it back and what we are going to use it for.

04:04:41In the previous financial year,

04:04:47Afrikaanshet ek iets verkeerd gesê, Belinda? O, jy luister aandagtig, OK.claim

04:04:53In the previous financial year, the city obtained a short-term loan from the DBSA of 2.4 billion. The 2.4 billion was successfully repaid in full, capital and interest on 25 June 2024.claim

04:05:18DBSA has offered the city with a short-term loan of 2.8 billion. The planned 2.8 billion short-term borrowing will be utilized to bridge capital grants and external borrowing which are in excess of 5 billion, whilst maintaining full compliance with section 45,

04:05:46we all understand the MFMA, and will assist with ensuring smooth service delivery to mitigate cash flow mismatches that arise as due to longer section 46 of the MFMA processes for raising budget external long-term borrowing for capital expenditure.

04:06:11It must be further noted that the planned short-term borrowing is cost-effective, as the pricing for the planned short-term borrowing is cheaper than the planned long-term borrowing, thus making it optimal to utilize short-term borrowing to manage the interest expense.claim

04:06:37The loan will be utilized in line with section 45, as I said before, which allows the municipality to incur short-term debt to bridge shortfalls within a financial year during which debt is incurred in expectation of a specific and realistic anticipated income to be received within the financial year.claim

04:07:04The interest rate of the 2.8 billion is a three-month JIBAR plus 2.30%. The cost of the current loan is lower than that from the previous financial year, which at the three-month JIBAR plus 2.55%. Due diligence processes were done by DBSA before the short-term funding was offered to the city.

04:07:37And we ask this house to please adopt. Thank you.

04:07:45Once.

Item 7: vote on the DBSA loan

04:07:49Thank you, MMC Arnolds. Councillors, the recommendations are on pages 7.3 to 7.4. Is the item agreed to?

04:08:03No!

04:08:12Councillors! Councillors! This item falls under section 160(2) of the Constitution, and therefore requires the support of 136 councillors in line with section 160(3)(b) of the Constitution. So we'll put it up for a vote. All the councillors that are in favor of this item,

04:08:40please raise your hands. Councillor Mosehla, you raised your hand before anyone else. Should I note your hand? Do you want to say something? Mosehla. Okay. Colleagues, please lower your hands so Councillor Mosehla can come to the floor before we start.

04:09:01Thanks, Speaker. I wanted to remind you that you need to ring the bell for some of us who are outside to relieve ourselves or so, to come back into council. Thanks.

04:09:16Okay, we can do that because we sent communication to Zungu so that all the whips of all the different caucuses can call all their councillors that belong in their caucuses in the chamber. But we can do that as well. Protocol?

04:09:36Chief Zungu.

04:09:38isiZuluEyi, nizaze ningibulale.

04:09:39Chief Zungu. Chief Whip of Council Zungu. [00:09:44] (no speech)

04:12:02Councillors, we hope all the councillors are inside the chamber

04:12:11and in their seats. If you are not in your seat, you'll not participate in the voting process. All the councillors that are for this item, please raise your hands. All the councillors that are supporting this item, please raise your hands. [00:12:32] (no speech)

04:14:17Okay, councillors! Councillors! Protocol!

04:14:24Remove her, Madam Speaker.

04:14:26isiZuluUphambene muntu lo. [00:14:28] (no speech)

04:14:58Okay, we

04:15:05Okay, we not supposed to take. [00:15:08] (no speech)

04:15:43isiZuluMina ngithule. [00:15:45] (no speech)

04:16:07Councillors, you can lower your hands. [00:16:12] (no speech)

04:16:25Protocol, Leonardo? Can you kindly ask the lady to leave the council chambers? She has broken protocol.

04:16:34She must delete those photos! Those pictures must be deleted! [00:16:39] (no speech)

04:17:27Councillors, all those who do not support this item, please raise your hands. [00:17:34] (no speech)

04:20:23Councillors, you can lower your hands. All those councillors who are abstaining from the voting process, please raise your hands. None. Let's give Legal some time to consolidate the results. [00:20:42] (no speech)

04:20:54Councillors, there's none for abstentions. Councillors who did not support is 62. Councillors who supported is 164. The item carries.

04:21:14Councillor Santana?

04:21:26Councillors, please switch off your mics. Councillor Santana, it's fine now.

04:21:29Thank you, Speaker. Kindly note the DA's dissent, and it's not one of principle, not that we wouldn't support otherwise, it's for the lack of information. Thank you.

04:21:37Your dissent is noted, Councillor Santana, from the DA. Councillor De Lange, from Freedom Front Plus.

04:21:48Very short, Madam Speaker. Please register our dissent for the record. Thank you.

04:21:53Your dissent is noted, Councillor De Lange, from Freedom Front Plus.

Item 8 (Southern Farms Mega Housing, s33 MFMA): small-party debate

04:22:00Councillors, we proceed with item eight, which is the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project. That's for compliance with Section 33 of the Municipal Finance Management Act.

04:22:13The first speaker on our agenda on this particular item is Councillor De Lange from Freedom Front Plus.

04:22:28Thank you, Madam Speaker, all protocol observed. When this process started in 2013, I was very excited. And I thought to myself, finally we are on par with Cape Town in developing these kind of cities. In 2015, a developer, Valumax and Safrich, was appointed to do an environmental impact study and to do the preliminary property plans. And I was very excited also to find out that this will be done at their own cost.claim

04:23:00Then JPC went into a 50-year lease, not sale agreement, with the developers at no cost again to the city for a three-year period. In this lease agreement, all the unused portions will revert back to the city after the 50-year lease has been done. Then unfortunately, Madam Speaker, in 2018, things went south.claim

04:23:24The cost of this project amounts to 27 billion, 60% or 16 billion that will be funded by the developer, and then the shock and the horror came: 40%, which is 11 billion, that will be funded even though through government grants. Now, Madam Speaker, the question arises. The city can throw 11 billion through grants from national and provincial towards a vanity project.claim

04:23:51But what about our own infrastructure and the backlog on maintenance? We all know the story: water, electricity, sewage, and roads. So that is very concerning. Then of course, the city will also be responsible for applying bulk services to this specific project. Madam Speaker, further to this, we've got serious concerns about the accuracy of the environmental impact study and the further impact on the environment and the Klip River basin and the estuaries around that specific area.claim

04:24:21In closing, in closing, Madam Speaker, something else I didn't pick up in the comments from Treasury, in the comments from Province, and even in the comments of our own legal department, and I quote the following emanating from legal papers: "Claim matter under paragraph 6, COJ conveniently excluded the judgment of Judge Bertelsmann, which stipulates the following: Properties sold and bought will be illegally executed because they will be in contravention of the Land Claim High Court judgment by Judge Bertelsmann,claim

04:24:58reportedly Case Number 59/2010, who issued a judgment that no sales can take place in the area under the land claim 40402 without the prior written consent of the Land Claims Commission. All sales after 2016 will thus be against the High Court judgment and of Judge Bertelsmann."claim

04:25:23Paragraph C creates the false impression, let me just go up here. Paragraph 6 creates the false impression that the COJ can purchase land whilst the land claim 40402 is still pending. According to the ruling by Judge Bertelsmann, COJ must first prove that they have written consent from the Land Claims Commissioner granting them permission to proceed with the mega city project. Failure to attach such written approval in the bundle is illegal, and the City of Johannesburg will be in contravention of the judgment. Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rest my case.claim

04:26:00Thank you, Councillor De Lange. ACDP, Councillor Harris.

04:26:08Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak to item eight, which addresses the Southern Farms. The report gives an informative background to the establishment of Southern Farms. And while the annexure is technically correct,claim

04:26:28it does not talk about the involvement and the input of surrounding communities that were protesting about housing. On the 19th of August in 2019, a group of people from Pimville, Diepkloof, Freedom Park, Eldorado Park, Meadowlands, Klipspruit, Ennerdale marched to the legislature and spoke at the time toclaim

04:26:59Premier David Makhura, who said that Gauteng would be a construction site. And he promised the communities that they would be part of that development, and he mentioned Southern Farms specifically. Some of the demands included decent housing closer to economic activity, transparency in the Rapid Land Release Program and mega housing development programs,

04:27:27an end to privatization of the housing projects, employment of community members in development projects, and transparency in the election of community liaison officers. Today, five and a half years after this march, the communities are still in the dark about Southern Farms development. Of particular concern is the matter of public participation. No civil society or housing activists responded to the adverts placed in the newspapers.

04:27:56They were not aware of the placements. If there was a functioning, effective stakeholder management system in place, the directly affected leaders would have been advised of the process. Community leaders are adamant that they have not been given a hearing or been consulted at all. In fact, the gathering outside today is a direct result of the inaccessibility of officials and the gatekeepers in the mayor's office who choose what the mayor must attend to and who he must listen to.

04:28:28The Khoisan community in Jackson's Drift, particularly, were not consulted in this development. Their heritage site, which is over 100 years old, is in danger of being displaced by this project. Whilst the work of the service providers is appreciated, their participation is a direct opposite

04:28:50Please wrap up, Councillor.

04:28:51of the promises made by former Premier David Makhura. The ACDP appeals to JPC to re-evaluate the public participation process surrounding this project and to embark on an inclusive, ongoing process of stakeholder management and engagement. Thank you.

04:29:13Thank you, Councillor Harris. AIC, Councillor Mhlongo.

04:29:24Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. All protocol observed. Madam Speaker, I rise on item eight, Southern Farms Mega Housing Project, compliance with section 33 of the Municipal Finance Management Act, that is MFMA. Madam Speaker, the African Independent Congress is so thrilled by the commencement of this project. And this project is highly welcomed if in the city we are serious about service delivery and making sure that the dream of having a smart city in

04:30:00in the City of Johannesburg does not remain a pipe dream, but it is a reality which will assist the communities of Freedom Park, Eldorado Park, Lehae, Lenasia, Ennerdale and surrounding areas in job creation. As the chairperson of the section 79 economic development in the city, I am so thrilled to see this project started during my lifetime.

04:30:25Madam Speaker, we further hope that when the city when the City of Johannesburg enters into the development sale and the lease agreement with the successful bidder, that process will be just and transparent to avoid legal challenges that can delay the completion of this project. The African Independent Congress approves this report with not only one thumbs up, with both thumbs up. Thank you so much.

04:30:52Thank you, Councillor. GOOD, Councillor Cook.

04:30:59Madam Speaker, GOOD rises on item 8, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project, and we rise in support of this item. Speaker, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project promises to assist in reducing the massive housing shortage which the City of Joburg is facing, with up to 45,000 families in line to benefit from housing.claim

04:31:26GOOD notes that the Section 33 process has been followed, public participation has been completed, and no objections were received in the process, paving the way for this council to approve the item. However, the funding for this project does make use of conditional grant funding, and therefore it should be specified in the documents which were submitted to council that subsidized housing would be included in the project.claim

04:31:55It is vitally important that when the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project commences, that sufficient subsidized housing is included in the project. GOOD will, however, closely monitor the progress of the Southern Housing Mega House, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project, and continue to put pressure on officials to ensure that the shortage, the housing shortage in Johannesburg is addressed. GOOD supports the item.

04:32:18Thank you, Councillor. ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

04:32:27Speaker, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project will revive hope for those in dire need of housing. The Southern Farms Development Housing Project is a step in the right direction towards restoring the dignity of many destitute residents of Johannesburg. This housing development project is earmarked to give much-needed relief to address ever-increasing housing needs of communities such as Soweto, who are in desperate need for housing.

04:32:56isiXhosaAbantu bayatsho, Speaker, bathi kudala beyilindile le development. Nanamhlanje bebelapha phandle besithi bafuna le Southern Farms. Okwethu ukuba siqinisekise

04:33:06that we do all what is necessary to ensure that this is realized. While the ATM supports the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project, more needs to be done towards restoring the dignity of those who still lack accommodation. The Land Expropriation Act comes at the right time to help fast-track land distribution. While the ATM is not in support of the current Land Expropriation Act, which has been recently signed into law by President Ramaphosa,

04:33:37in its entirety. We believe that it will be of great assistance in the meantime. Derelict and abandoned buildings, including those who have been hijacked, can be expropriated and be used to address the housing backlog, or even student accommodation. The ATM calls on all councillors to support the Southern Farms Housing Development by noting and approving this report. The lack of housing has led to increasing crime levels in the City of Johannesburg.

04:34:06Our duty is to work hard to prevent perpetual levels of crime as a result of homelessness. Let us rise up and be counted along those who played a meaningful role in giving people proper housings. Peace in our land, peace in our lifetime. I thank you.

04:34:26Thank you, Councillor. UDM, Councillor Zigebe, you have 3 minutes, Councillor.

04:34:36I've made peace with that. Thank you, Speaker. To the EFF, surprisingly, that the DA will have to implement expropriation of land without compensation. I never thought in my lifetime I would see that. Madam Speaker, today we stand at a pivotal moment in our city's history as we discuss the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project. This initiative is not merely a construction endeavor. It is a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing multiple facets of urban development

04:35:06and social upliftment. Firstly, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project is a direct response to the critical housing shortage in Johannesburg. The city's rapid population growth has outpaced

04:35:17Councillor Zigebe,

04:35:18Yes.

04:35:18please hold on. There's a background noise. Councillors, please let's respect our speakers on the floor. I know it's been a long day, but please let's show that respect, especially for the residents that are streaming online. Councillor Zigebe, you can continue.

04:35:34And me on the podium. Thank you. Firstly, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project is a direct response to the critical housing shortage in Johannesburg. The city's rapid population growth has outpaced the availability of affordable housing, leading to overcrowded informal settlements and inadequate living conditions for many residents. By providing a substantial number of new housing units, this project will significantly alleviate the housing crisis, offering

04:36:04dignified living spaces to thousands of families. Moreover, the project is designed with a holistic approach to community development. It includes essential amenities such as schools, clinics, libraries, and public open spaces. These facilities are crucial for fostering a sense of community and ensuring that residents have access to necessary services. The inclusion of these amenities demonstrates our commitment to creating not just housing, but vibrant, self-sustaining communities.

04:36:32From an economic perspective, the Southern Farms Mega Housing Project is a catalyst for job creation and economic growth. The construction phase alone will generate numerous employment opportunities, providing much-needed jobs to local residents. Additionally, the long-term operation and maintenance of the development will continue to support local employment and stimulate economic activity in the area. The environmental aspect of the project is also noteworthy.

04:37:01By integrating environmentally sensitive areas with sustainable human settlements, we are setting a new standard for eco-friendly urban development. This approach ensures that we are not only addressing the immediate housing needs, but also preserving our natural environment for future generations. The project's design incorporates green spaces and sustainable building practices, which will contribute to the overall health and well-being of our communities.

04:37:28Financially, the project represents a significant investment in our city's future. The joint venture's commitment to funding 60% of the project, combined with government grants and subsidies covering the remaining 40%, exemplifies a successful public-private partnership. This model not only reduces the financial burden on the city, but also ensures a steady revenue stream through rentals, rates, and taxes over a 50-year lease period.

04:37:53Please wrap up, Councillor.

04:37:54The financial The financial structure is a testament to our innovative approach to funding large-scale urban development projects. In conclusion, Speaker, the project is more than just a housing initiative. It is a comprehensive strategy to sustainable urban development. It addresses critical housing needs, promotes economic growth, fosters community development, and sets new standards for environmental sustainability. As we move forward, let us continue to work together towards

04:38:23a common goal for creating a brighter, more prosperous future for all the residents of Johannesburg. This project is a shining example of what we can achieve through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to the well-being of our city and its people.

Item 8: DA, ActionSA, EFF and ANC

04:38:42Thank you, Councillor Zigebe. DA, Councillor Reddy.

04:38:56Good day to you, Madam Speaker, the DA leadership, and all protocols observed. I rise on this day to speak to item 8, which is the Southern Farms Mixed-Use Development Project in the south of Johannesburg. This R27 billion mixed-use development was conceived in 2013 and was awarded to the SB Joint Venture. This joint venture partner had a 60% stake, which is valued at R16 billion, and the city holding 40%claim

04:39:24as at a value of R11 billion. We are told in this report that the joint venture partner has self-funded the R16 billion and done all the groundwork up to this point. We are asked today to approve the participation of the City of Johannesburg to the tune of R11 billion. We are also told that there is no cost to the city, and that the R11 billion will be paid by national and provincial governments and their vested departments in the form of grants and bequests.claim

04:39:53We, as the DA, welcome developments like these that, apart from creating much-needed jobs and housing, boost the economy all the while improving infrastructure and commercial and retail investment. We have no issue with the development, but with the funding model. The only reference to national and provincial government participation is both their requests for public participation. We are told of a business plan,

04:40:21but are not provided with one to interrogate. We are told of funding by national and provincial government, but are not given letters of intent or commitment. Neither are we told of their respective share of such funding, nor in precisely what form this funding would take, or what, or which and to what extent their departments would be participating in making financial contributions, or would they be directly involved in planning and execution.

04:40:48We are told there's no financial contributions by the City of Johannesburg, but this begs the question, who would give somebody R11 billion and then sit back while their money is being used? What are the checks and balances that will be in place to ensure that it's used for the purpose and not and to prevent financial misconduct? R11 billion is a lot of money to spend. We do pay taxes. Technically, it's ours as well.

04:41:15For us not to know where and how we are getting it, and more especially how it is to be spent, and what measures, checks and balances are to be in place to ensure responsible and accountable spending. We are also not told how our joint venture partners have funded themselves and to what levels they are leveraged. We are not told how much they've spent on preparations, nor what their precise part or role is that they are playing in this development.

04:41:45But then we aren't told what our role is either. Everything is up in the air. We're left to decide for ourselves. And lastly, the city says there's no financial contributions or obligations that it has to bear. That brings us to the massive tract of land. Does the city own all the land required for the development? And if so, what is its value? Is this not a financial contribution? A while back, there was a motion to purchase parcels of land that the city didn't own for this development.

04:42:15We were also told that the fact that large tracts of land were undevelopable owing to the dolomite deposits in the region. What is the impact of both of these on the development, and to what extent does this compromise the development? There are loads of open-ended, very nice-sounding statements that make this development extremely attractive. But this is a City of Johannesburg project utilizing public funds and land purchased at some point with public funds.

04:42:46And for that very reason, everyone in this house has to be held accountable and responsible for the financial decisions we are supposed to make. We cannot just agree to this without knowing all the facts. I have posed a few questions on behalf of the Democratic Alliance and our Section 79 Committee, but given more time and a greater ability to interrogate this report, I'm sure we can find a lot more. There are too many questions and far too little detail,

04:43:16and it is for these very reasons that, the questions that I've raised, that I ask that this report be sent to Economic Development Section 79 Committee with more information so we can interrogate the very essence of this development. This report was never presented to the current committee in this form, and the entire committee deserves the right to answers. I'm sure many members of other Section 79 committees are questioning why

04:43:46a development of this nature has not come before any of them either. I ask that this report be withdrawn and presented to Economic Development Section 79 Committee for deliberations. Failing that withdrawal, I wish to categorically state that the Democratic Alliance and the DA Section 79 Committee do not note this report. I repeat, the DA will not note this report. Thank you.

04:44:20Thank you, Councillor Reddy. ActionSA, Councillor Mohlala.

04:44:29Thank you so much, Speaker. Speaker, let me first greet our provincial chair, Honourable Funzi Ngobeni, MPL. Greetings to you, Speaker of Council and caucus leader of the Fabulous 44. Greetings to all councillors, guests at the gallery, and most importantly, greetings to the hard-working residents of the City of Johannesburg.

04:44:58Speaker, I rise to speak on item 8, Southern Farms Mega Housing Project. Speaker, as ActionSA, a party that believes in economic, social, and spatial justice, Speaker, as ActionSA, we believe that the current approach to housing provision and land reform is outdated and costly and poorly implemented. Speaker, I'll just touch a little bit on Section 26 of the South African Constitution.claim

04:45:30Section 26 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees the right of adequate housing, of which also requires the state to reasonable action to ensure that the right is fulfilled. Speaker, this mega project seeks to benefit 45,000, to build actually, 45,000 housing unitsclaim

04:46:00that will benefit that uncle from Diepkloof who has lost hope in owning his own place, that hard-working mother from Freedom Park, ugogo from Eldorado Park, and that young person who's trying to make a living, who stays in Kliptown. Speaker, as ActionSA, we note and approve this report. Thank you.claim

04:46:31Thank you, Councillor Mohlala. DA, Councillor Sekhu. Councillor, you have 2 minutes.

04:46:43All protocol observed. I rise to bring your attention to Portion 80 of the farm Eikenhof, which is also earmarked as part of the mega city project. Archaeological studies have revealed that the Khoisan people settled on this land as far back as 1890s, over a century ago. However, during the early '60s, the apartheid government forcibly removed the community to areas such as Eldorado Park, Ennerdale, and Grasmere, reclassifying the Khoisan as Colouredclaim

04:47:13and compelling them to adopt new identities and culture. Sadly, at the moment, only a few families are still on site. In February 2016, Portion 80 was provisionally declared a heritage site by the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority of Gauteng, with application for full proclamation still outstanding. There is an ongoing land claim application for Portion 80. And as first claimants with deep and enduring connection to this land,claim

04:47:43it is imperative that direct consultation with the Khoisan community take place before any development can proceed. Repeated applications have been lodged with JPC for development of a multi-purpose heritage center. JPC has acknowledged the applications, but no response has been forthcoming from their side. The center, which has a potential to provide both educational and economic benefits to the city, would also preserve the rich heritage of the Khoisan people.

04:48:14I ask, has the government taken into account the heritage and culture of the Khoisan people, or are they going to remain marginalized

04:48:22Please wrap up, Councillor.

04:48:23as they were marginalized during apartheid era? Development should not come at the cost of our heritage. On the contrary, our heritage should serve as a cornerstone in driving the city's economic development and growth agenda. I thank you, Speaker.

04:48:43Thank you, Councillor Sekhu. EFF, Councillor Telekoa.

04:48:55Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings to the Acting Mayor of today, Mayor Mbulazi Omnyama. Greeting to all councillors, including the EFF battalions. As EFF, we agree with the recommendation. We are happy that the city has considered building houses. We will also appreciate if the poor of the poorest can be also considered in this project.

04:49:25As EFF, we say the housing policy must include student accommodation as well, because students are suffering with accommodation. And as EFF, we say housing policy must include, oh by the way, housing policy must include student accommodation as part of social housing. We can all learn one or two things from the EFF. Maybe we can take a part

04:49:57from the EFF plan of action on human settlements in the 2024 election manifesto. We highlight some of the few commitments that our leaders of housing can take a leaf from. We say the EFF government will amend the social housing restructuring zones to include previously white-owned areas to promote full integration and social cohesion by 2026.claim

04:50:25isiZuluNiyabasaba ke nina abelungu.

04:50:27We also say our government will put mechanism in place to ensure that all public servants have houses. I'm sure even here, most of the councillors might find themselves not having houses, so it's key that we also look into that and taking from the EFF. And the EFF government will subsidize housing finances for middle-income earners, including workers who earn minimum wage.

04:50:57The EFF government will implement smart home technologies in all new state-built houses, ensuring energy efficiency and modern living standards. The EFF government will develop a state-led urban vertical farming initiative within housing complexes to promote local food production and sustainable living. Again, we say the EFF government will create a digital platform for housing application and allocations,

04:51:27streamlining the process and making it more transparent and accessible, which will limit corruption. And where are the people who are overseeing this project so that we can give them the EFF manifesto document on how to effectively implement the project?

04:51:48isiZuluNgithi angiyibambe lapho. Siyathokoza.

04:51:55Thank you, Councillor. ANC, Councillor Bolani.

04:52:06Greetings, Madam Speaker. Greetings to Whip of Council, Somahashe. Greetings to Chair of Chairs, Son of the Hunter. Greetings to the Executive Mayor in absentia, and greetings to the Acting Mayor. Greetings to MMCs and chairs of committees. And greetings to fellow councillors, in particular,

04:52:32Sesothobana ba Ntate Oliver Reginald Kaizana Tambo.

04:52:37And I would also like to send condolences, Madam Speaker, to families of our slain 13 SANDF soldiers. Madam Speaker, allow me to borrow a quote from one of the best revolutionaries to have walked the soil of Africa and South Africa. Open quote. Looking at the mirror, we know about ourselves. Reflecting on the past, we know what to do now. Today, we review our history not to take comfort in our successclaim

04:53:09and not to look for excuses for evading the difficulties we currently face, but for the purpose of summing up experience, learning the laws of history, and giving ourselves the power and courage to move forward. Close quote. President Oliver Reginald Tambo was prophetic and had foresight in this visionary quote. As we welcome President Matamela Ramaphosa's signing of Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 into law.claim

04:53:39Madam Speaker, Southern Farms Development will contribute towards social upliftment of the surrounding community by providing an array of community facilities, such as schools, clinic, ECD centers, public open spaces, libraries, municipal offices, police station, and most important, business sites that will assist for employment and business opportunity to that community. What excites me more than anything else is to hear views of people and residents of Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Lehae,claim

04:54:09Devland, Naturena, Kibler Park, because they participated in these processes. Their views and their presentation was taken into cognizance. One thing that is very important we should take cognizance and supersede everything else is that there were no objections were received from the National or Provincial Treasury. And what is even worse and important is that the community itself, they didn't even object to this project.claim

04:54:39What satisfies us as the ANC is all processes were followed, and this report complies with the requirements of the Section 33 of the Municipal Finance Management Act, Number 56 of 2003, as outlined in the body of the report. Notice further given in accordance with Section 21A and Section 21 of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act, Number 32 of 2000. I wonder how my late maternal and paternal grandparents feel

04:55:09where they are, because on the both sides, they were victims and casualties, respectively, of forced removal from Sophiatown and Newclare. Because today, people have a say on how their residential area should be consolidated and built, which is an opportunity our forebearers never had, and we take it for granted. It is incumbent to us as councillors to redress this imbalance and humiliation that was subjected to our forebearers by supporting this noble and transformative developmental project,

04:55:39such as Southern Farms Mega Housing Projects. And we note and approve this report. But I want to say, let's not try to create an element of academic exercises. Here, we are dealing with people's lives.

04:55:54isiZuluSiyaqhuba. Qhuba,

04:55:56MMC. Thank you, Speaker.

04:56:02isiZuluSiyabonga,

Item 8: MMC Mnisi responds

04:56:03Councillor. MMC Mnisi.

04:56:20Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Mabaso, esteemed councillors, and our esteemed guests in the gallery. Madam Speaker, firstly, I want to acknowledge and commend the invaluable contributions made by all the councillors. Councillors, you have raised

04:56:50critical points that not only enhanced our understanding of the report, but also provided meaningful inputs. Now, Madam Speaker, I wish to remind council that this report that we are tabling here today is a public participation compliance report. I think just to assist councillors, let me also read the heading from the Speaker's list.claim

04:57:23Item 8, Southern Farms Mega Housing Project: Compliance with Section 33 of the Municipal Finance Management Act, MFMA, which we all understand that it is a continuous process throughout the development of the project. Now, all these other issues that were raised by most of the councillors, Madam Speaker,claim

04:57:53are issues which they were supposed to raise when we were tabling the acquisition report. The environmental studies were done and provided to council in 2018, and final studies were done in 2022, which were attached to the acquisition report that was tabled here in council in November 2024. Madam Speaker,

04:58:23to respond to the issue of the funding of the mega project, the funding will be done through the USDG and the HSDG. We all have an appreciation, Madam Speaker, that human settlement is a competency of the national and provincial government, which then suggests or makes us as a municipality to be developers.

04:58:54We are accredited level 2, which means that we are developers. So at least the councillor, I think, if I'm not mistaken, Madam Speaker, Councillor Reddy will leave here with an understanding that our role as the City of Joburg is that of a developer. The JV partner are funded by the banks, Madam Speaker.

04:59:24And lastly, the land belongs to the city, and it is only used to leverage the investment. With that being said, Madam Speaker, I want to urge council to note the compliance report. Thank you.

04:59:45Thank you, MMC Mnisi. The recommendations are on page 8.8. Is the item agreed to?

05:00:05Is the item noted, councillors?

05:00:08Thank you.

Item 8: clarification on recommendations and DA objection

05:00:13Councillor Echeozonjoku, it's either I acknowledge you or Councillor Christians, but not both of you. Which one? Councillor Christians.

05:00:26Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, the MMC when she spoke said we are noting the report, but there are three different recommendations. The first one is for noting, but the other two are approval by this council. So she just asked for the noting part. Are the other two now withdrawn? That's the clarity we wanted to know.

05:00:47Remember, Councillor Christians, she said it's a compliance report.

05:01:00[inaudible] she said it's compliance for information, that's what she said.

05:01:07Thank you, Councillor Christians, you may have your seat.

05:01:13Councillors, we proceed with item nine, and that is the approval.

05:01:20Councillor Christians.

05:01:22Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, the Democratic Alliance would like to record that we are objecting to this item because what is being asked to agree to and what is on the report are completely different. Thank you.

05:01:36That is noted. Thank you, Councillor Christians. Secretary to Council can continue.

05:01:41Councillors, item nine.

05:01:44Councillor De Lange, I can see you, Councillor De Lange from Freedom Front.

05:01:51Thank you, Madam Speaker. With all due respect, I'm just a bit confused. We voted on the loan, but the no's definitely had it, but we're not voting on this specific item. It doesn't matter, I'm just asking for a bit of consistency from your chair, please. Please note our serious concern and dissent for financial reasons on this item. Thank you.

05:02:13It's noted, Councillor De Lange. Secretary to Council.

Item 9 (Zandspruit Urban Development Framework 2024): GOOD and DA

05:02:18Item nine, councillors, is approval of the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework for 2024, sorry.

05:02:30Councillor Cook from the GOOD Party.

05:02:37Madam Speaker, GOOD acknowledges the need for sustainable urban planning and development in Zandspruit, given the rapid growth and infrastructural challenges facing the area. While the framework presents a vision for development, it does, however, somewhat lack clear implementation strategies that ensure tangible improvements for the residents of Zandspruit. The framework does not allocate direct funding for implementation,

05:03:05making it uncertain whether the proposed interventions will be realized or just remain theoretical pipe dreams. Furthermore, the report does not address informal settlement growth. The rapid expansion of informal settlements in Zandspruit specifically has outpaced planning efforts, yet the framework lacks concrete solutions for immediate service delivery and formalization. The framework also has an over-reliance

05:03:35on future budget approvals. The UDF, as it currently stands, relies on separate budget approvals for implementation, meaning key projects in this framework could face delays or cancellations depending on shifting municipal financial priorities over the next terms. GOOD urges the City of Johannesburg to reconsider the approval of the Zandspruit UDF 2024 in its current form. Instead, we call for a revised framework that includes

05:04:05guaranteed financial commitments for implementation with clear budget allocations for key projects, immediate interventions to address the informal settlement growth in the area, service delivery backlogs in the area, and housing formalization. A comprehensive environmental impact assessment also needs to be developed that does not compromise the existing infrastructure and ecological balance in the area. A more robust public engagement process

05:04:34that incorporates community concerns and priorities should also be relooked at. Without these revisions, the framework fails to provide a realistic and actionable development plan for the Zandspruit residents, leaving them without any improvements they actually need.

05:04:53Thank you, Councillor Cook. DA, Councillor Steenkamp.

05:05:05Greetings. Madam Speaker, the Democratic Alliance welcomes the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework, but let us be clear. Without proper funding and implementation, this will be yet another plan that's collecting dust under this failing government. For years, Zandspruit and surrounding areas like Honeydew, Cosmo City, Northgate, North Riding Agricultural Holdings, Kya Sands, has been neglected. With no proper roads,

05:05:35forcing residents to navigate on mud and potholes, an overloaded collapsing electricity grid leaving families in darkness, a failing decades-old water network worsened by the Honeydew Reservoir that has high the demand, uncollected waste turning the area into a health hazard, explains all the flies in Gauteng. Yet this ANC, EFF, ActionSA and PA coalition refuses to allocate

05:06:06the necessary budget to fix these issues. This government is not just failing, it is incapable. They do not know how to govern, they cannot plan, they cannot budget and they cannot deliver. Even their own Mayor, Councillor Dada Morero, admitted when he told Johannesburg residents not to expect much change under his leadership. Madam Speaker, how can we trust a government that openly admitsemotive

05:06:35it will not fix anything? Time and time again, the DA has had to take this failing government to COGTA and the courts just to force them to follow basic legal processes. Instead of governing properly, this coalition makes unlawful decisions, ignores due process and mismanages public funds. They do not follow proper tender processes, they do not conduct proper financial planning, and when they are caught,emotive

05:07:05they simply shrug and carry on as usual. This is not governance, it is a disaster. While the coalition makes excuses, the Democratic Alliance delivers results. Where we govern in Cape Town, Midvaal, uMngeni, services are delivered, budgets are spent properly, infrastructure is maintainedemotive

05:07:35and upgraded. We don't just talk, we get things done. Madam Speaker, let me be clear. This ANC, EFF, ActionSA, PA coalition is failing Johannesburg. They do not know how to govern. When the DA takes control in 2026, we will deliver real infrastructure investment.

05:07:53Councillor, please hold on. Councillor Ngwenya.

05:08:05Thank you, Speaker. Can we please be respected as EFF, Speaker? When someone is calling EFF name, he needs to respect it. You don't just shout out like that.

05:08:21Councillor Ngwenya, man. Yo! Hey. Councillor Steenkamp, please continue.

05:08:33When the DA takes control in 2026, we will deliver real infrastructure investment, fix the collapsing service delivery system, restore financial discipline and good governance in Johannesburg. We will approve this item today, but let this government know we will hold them accountable. The people of Zandspruit and surrounding areas and the entire City of Johannesburg deserve services, not more excuses. I thank you.

Item 9: ActionSA, DA, EFF and ANC

05:09:10Thank you, Councillor Steenkamp. ActionSA, Councillor Rakosa.

05:09:27Greetings to ActionSA Provincial Leader, Honourable Funzi Ngobeni, Speaker of Council, Nobuhle Mthembu.

05:09:34Councillor Rakosa, please speak to the mic, move the mic closer to you. Yes. We're struggling to hear you.

05:09:41Okay. Greetings to ActionSA Provincial Leader, Honourable Funzi Ngobeni, Speaker of Council, Nobuhle Mthembu, and Fabulous 44. Acting Executive Mayor, MMC Mabaso, members of the mayoral committee, and fellow councillors. ActionSA is pleased with the finalization of Zandspruit Urban Development Framework, although in an all too familiar fashion of being decades late.

05:10:21ActionSA hopes this framework will usher in opportunities for a better quality of the residents of Zandspruit, like formal housing, economic opportunities, which can deliver sustainable employment opportunities, as well as social upliftment entry projects like sports and recreation facilities.

05:10:45Councillor Rakosa, we are struggling to hear you.

05:10:48Yes.

05:10:55isiZulu[inaudible] usizo.

05:11:00Okay. ActionSA. ActionSA is pleased with the finalization of Zandspruit Urban Development Framework, although in an all too familiar fashion of being decades late. ActionSA hopes this framework will usher in opportunities

05:11:20Councillor Rakosa, please hold on. Councillor Mosehla.

05:11:27Councillor Rakosa, please switch off your mic.

05:11:32SesothoThank you, Speaker. A ke na bothata le ActionSA councillor, mara ha re mo utlwe.

05:11:39So I think I'm suggesting that she moves to another mic so that we can hear what she's saying. Thanks.

05:11:46Okay.

05:11:51Councillors from ActionSA, please help Councillor Rakosa with the mic while she focuses on the laptop and her speech.

05:12:03ActionSA is pleased with the finalization of Zandspruit Urban Development Framework, although in an all too familiar fashion of being decades late. ActionSA hopes this framework will usher in opportunities for a better quality of the residents of Zandspruit, like formal housing, economic opportunities, which can deliver sustainable employment opportunities, as well as social

05:12:33upliftment entry projects like sports and recreation facilities and/or programs. We urge the City of Johannesburg to build a robust development team that focuses on speeding up the much-needed development frameworks for a multitude of informal settlements across our country. As ActionSA, we support and approve the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework 2024. I thank you.

05:13:05Thank you, Councillor Rakosa. DA, Councillor Deppe.

05:13:15Thank you, Chair. As we know, this is just a framework. It's a framework for future development in that area and how to do that. This framework will come back to the Section 79 for future discussion on what actually goes into this framework and how the projects will be decided on and where

05:13:45the money will come from. But I want to say, Chair, Madam Speaker, that many years ago, 15 years ago, I went to the opening of Cosmo City housing project when Lindiwe Sisulu was the founder of that project. We had great hopes for Cosmo City. We had great hopes for that area to be developed into a world-class city as most ofclaim

05:14:15our colleagues across the floor talk about. It didn't happen. So all I want to say is that whatever you do in this framework, it will come back to the Section 79 and the DA will do oversight on it, and we will make sure that the developments are sustainable and they actually happen. That's what the DA does. We do oversight and we make sure that the job gets done. Thank you very much.

05:14:49Thank you, Councillor. EFF

05:14:51Sorry, and we approve it. Thank you.

05:14:54Noted, Councillor. EFF, Councillor Mosehla.

05:15:05Afternoon, Speaker. Revolutionary salutations to the Red Battalions of the EFF Caucus led by our Party Leader, Fighter Sepetlele and the Chief Whip, Fighter Thabiso Mogapi, fellow councillors, and fellow Joburg residents. Today, I rise as a voice of the voiceless to provide inputs on the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework 2024. This framework represents an opportunity to correct the injustices of the past,

05:15:35to build a future where every resident of Zandspruit can live with dignity, security, and hope. The EFF supports the strategic thrust of creating a resilient, livable, and sustainable urban environment. We have trust in the JDA and all the leadership of the department and know that they will reverse the social ills created by the apartheid spatial planning.

05:16:05The rapid growth of Zandspruit reflects the resilience of its people, but it also exposes the systematic neglect they have endured. For far too long, our communities have been trapped in a cycle of poverty, excluded from meaningful economic opportunities, and denied access to basic services. First and foremost, we demand that the land within Zandspruit be expropriated without compensation

05:16:35and redistributed to the people equally. The land is not a commodity and it's a birthright. This is a non-negotiable principle of the EFF, and we call for the allocation of land for affordable housing, communal farming, and public amenities that will serve the poorest of the poor people and not the elite. Secondly, we must ensure that the proposed amendments to theclaim

05:17:06Urban Development Boundary prioritizes the upgrading of informal settlements. The residents of Zandspruit deserve quality housing, not promises. Furthermore, the implementation framework must be state-led and community-driven. We reject the outsourcing of development to private interests that seek to exploit our people. The city must take full responsibility for delivering the project outlined in this framework,claim

05:17:36with clear timelines, budgets, and accountability mechanisms. It must also be noted, MMC, through you, Speaker, that there is a wrong mention of Ward 137 as being part of the benefiting wards, and we don't have such a ward in Johannesburg. The wards that are going to benefit there are Ward 97, Ward 101, and Ward 114.claim

05:18:07Lastly, Speaker, we call for genuine community participation. The people of Zandspruit must not be treated as passive residents or recipients of development, but as active agents of change. Their voices must guide every decision and every project and every budget allocation. Only then can we ensure that this framework serves the people that it claims to represent.

05:18:40In conclusion, the Zandspruit UDF is a critical document that has potential to transform the lives of our people, but transformation will only come, Speaker, if we are bold enough to challenge the status quo, to prioritize the needs of the people, and to commit ourselves to the vision of economic freedom in our lifetime. Let's not fail the people of Zandspruit. Let's rise to the occasion and ensure that this framework becomes a beacon of hope

05:19:10and a model of inclusive development. The EFF stands to support this item. Thank you.

05:19:25Thank you, Councillor. ANC, Councillor Tefu.

05:19:37Madam Speaker, Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Dada Morero in his absentia,

05:19:50isiZuluubaba iNyama kayishi, uZungu, ubaba uMarema,

05:19:57Chair of Chairs, progressive councillors of the African National Congress, progressive MMCs of the ANC.

05:20:09isiNdebeleBesithi ke sithathe nali ithutjana sithi kulabo abasilahlekeleko amajoni wethu abakade bangeCongo bayosijamela siyiNaha yeSewula Afrika. Sithi sengathi uZimu ke angathoba imindeni, imimoya yabo ilale ngokuthula.claim

05:20:36Madam Speaker, the challenge we are faced with as a city is the growth of informal settlements, which comes as a result of the attraction of migrants by the world-class African city called the City of Johannesburg. Zandspruit is no exception, as indicated in the background section of this progressive UDF, that since the approval of the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework in 2008, the study has experiencedclaim

05:21:06an exponential rate of both the formal and informal growth that outpaces formal initiatives and delivery of services. It was against this background that the Zandspruit informal settlement was identified by the Spatial Development Framework as a category two deprivation area based on the fact that it displays a fragmented suburban structure, variable degree of connectivity at a local and regional scale, and is located in a significant distance from economic centers,claim

05:21:37but within range to reasonably access opportunities on a daily basis. The city is right on track in embarking on a mission to overcome the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, which requires a collective commitment from both the administrative and legislative branches of government. We find ourselves obliged to play our part by responding through our unwavering support of this UDF. We are encouraged by the inclusiveness

05:22:08of this framework, as it includes the following number of wards: Ward 97, 101, and 114, which includes the areas of Tres Jolie Agricultural Holdings, Ruimsig Agricultural Holdings, Northgate, North Riding Agricultural Holdings, Jackal Creek, Zandspruit, Laser Park, Sonnedal Agricultural Holdings. This UDF will ensure the realization of a spatial development framework that is aiming at bringing communities together while bridging

05:22:38the gap between the haves and have-nots in the City of Johannesburg. It is for this reason that we commend the department for putting together this Urban Development Framework in a comprehensive manner and without ambiguity. As the African National Congress, we approve this UDF. I thank you.

Item 9: MMC Mgcina replies and item agreed

05:23:04Thank you, Councillor. MMC Mgcina.

05:23:17Thank you, Madam Speaker. Good afternoon to councillors. Let me also acknowledge the Troika of this Council, the Chief Whip of Council, yourself, Speaker, and the Acting EM in the house, and all our guests who are also with us and those who are also streaming via our social media. Madam Speaker,

05:23:47the purpose of this particular report is to seek approval from Council on the Zandspruit Urban Development Framework. And we must never forget, Madam Speaker, why it is important to get this report approved, because as other councillors have indicated, it acts as a policy to guide the development of inclusiveness, resilience, and livable urban settlements

05:24:17across our city. This policy, Madam Speaker, also is quite important to improve the economic development and improved living conditions of our residents, particularly those who are around the area of Zandspruit. It also provides

05:24:40isiZuluMMC, ngicela ume kancane.

05:24:43Councillor Zitha, I can hear you all the way from the back. Please respect the residents at home and our MMC on the floor.

05:24:51isiZuluMMC, ungakhubeka.

05:24:54isiZuluAnd he's my homegirl. I don't know why abehave ngalendlela. Abehave ngale uhlala next door yami lo.

05:25:05So Madam Speaker, this particular policy also provides a road map for building better cities, focusing on spatial transformation, inclusion, and economic growth, and most importantly, good governance. Councillor Cook, I understand your frustrations, but if you had given yourself time to go through the report, your answers are actually in the report. Everything that frustrates you is actually captured

05:25:35in this particular report. I will suggest that you read through the report and you'll be able to get your answers. Councillor Steenkamp, your obsession with the ANC and the EFF as well as ActionSA leading the city, you must now understand that we are leading the city and it must sit well with you that we are leading and start to work with us instead of

05:26:07fighting us. So that is the plea from myself, Councillor. Thank you, Mme Rakosa, Councillor Rakosa, for your support. I think it shows that working together we can actually improve a lot for our residents. Councillor Deppe, thank you very much, and I agree. Let's continue to monitor the work that the executive is doing. It is the responsibility of councillors to do that. We appreciate that because it also

05:26:37helps us to identify where are loopholes so that we are able to also correct them going forward. Councillor Mosehla, thank you very much, and I can't agree with you more that it is important for us to make sure that we transform the lives of our people, and it's through such policies that we are able to change the living environment of our people. Much appreciated,

05:27:07my brother. In terms of the wrong identified ward there, we had, if you remember, or was it in a briefing that I had with the officials, I did request them to change, and let me just apologize on their behalf for not correcting that, and I promise that it will be corrected immediately. Councillor Tefu, thank you so much. I think your comments are noted and we fully agree with them. Thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

05:27:43isiZuluSiyabonga, MMC Mgcina.

05:27:46The recommendation is on page 9.11. Is the item agreed to?

05:28:01Councillor Christians.

05:28:06Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, the MMC made a very important amendment. Can we agree that it's agreed to with the amendment by the MMC? Thank you.

05:28:26Councillors, do you agree with the amendment made by the MMC?

05:28:32Yes.

05:28:33Thank you, councillors.

Item 10 (Erf 1307 Yeoville lease, public participation feedback)

05:28:36We proceed with item 10, which is the feedback on the public participation process for the proposed lease in respect of Erf 1307, that's in Yeoville.

05:28:56Councillor Mohlala from ActionSA.

05:29:04Thank you very much, Speaker. Speaker, without wasting any time, Speaker, we as ActionSA we note this report. Thank you very much, Speaker.

05:29:18Thank you, Councillor. EFF, Councillor Telekoa.

05:29:37Thank you very much, Speaker.

05:29:40isiNdebeleNgizonilotjhisa godu.

05:29:44Not forgetting the battalions of the EFF, those who are in council and out. I rise on item 10, feedback on the public participation process for the proposed lease in respect of the Erf 1307 Yeoville. As we note the

05:30:00report. We also need to understand on why, uh, why we have a middleman. Uh, SAPS falls under national government. So why can't we enter into agreement with, uh, national government and maximize profits? Pillar number three of the EFF says we need to build state capacity which leads to abolishment of tenders. Just imagine some company will benefit from one sibling renting from another sibling. I thank you.

05:30:30SetswanaRa leboga Councillor. ANC Councillor Lebea.

05:30:41SepediYah. Yah. Ba lebea batla go ba bethwa mo baneng.

05:30:46Thanks. Uh, thank you Speaker. Uh, allow me Speaker, uh, to greet you Speaker.

05:30:52SepediKe re thobela. Uh, thobela go lotšha, uh, Speaker. And then o ntumelele, re dumedise, uh, Mayor wa rena in his absentia,

05:31:03Honorable, uh, Councillor Dada Morero. Acting Mayor Honorable MMC, uh, Mlungisi Mabaso. Uh, my, my greetings will differ with others neh. Uh, MMC Honorable Acting Mayor,

05:31:24isiZulueish mina nawe sisakolota i-Ward 8. Siyabakolota i-Ward 8 i-feedback,

05:31:32please, uh, come back to me. Uh, capable, capable Mayoral Committee of the City of Johannesburg, fellow councillors, uh, Chief Whip of Council Honorable Councillor Sthembiso Zungu, Chair of Chairs Councillor Bonolo Adolf Marema, uh, Chairpersons of portfolio committees, uh, the in particular, the one that, uh, I'm serving under with Councillor Mhlongo, Honorable Mhlongo, um, residents of the City of Johannesburg,

05:32:13isiZuluyingani lento le. Ngaphandle kwenu ngabe asikho la.

05:32:19So then, uh, you have got a right to participate. Um, distinguished guests, uh, not forgetting our capable regional secretary of the ANC, Comrade, uh, Sasabona Manganye. Uh, also those who made this sitting possible, the officials and protocol, we thank you. We greet you this afternoon. Speaker, uh, I'm rising here in terms of item, uh, number 10 as outlined and, uh, tabled by the, uh, by the, uh, Secretary to, to Council. Speaker, public participation were done and completed. In the main, no single objection was received. We therefore thank the GLU administration for the tremendous work they are doing, uh, in particular my MMC who's leading in this, uh, portfolio. MMC, uh, Nomoya Mnisi keep, keep up the spirit. Keep up doing the good work. In this, uh, in this, in this, in this, in this committee or in this portfolio you bring a lot of changes. We see that, uh, we are, we are running speedily so. Um, uh, we also as this Council authorize the Acting Chief, the, the, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of JPC to go ahead, to go ahead with the transaction for this, uh, combined erven to prosper. As ANC also, as ANC caucus we also note this report. I thank you Speaker. Amandla!

05:34:31SetswanaRa leboga Councillor Lebea. MMC Mnisi.

05:34:41isiZuluImbongi ibhale njengaye, hhayi ngeke hho.

05:34:45Thank you very much, uh, Madam Speaker. Um, the Chief Whip of Council you are here now, the Acting Executive Mayor, you are all acknowledged, fellow councillors. Madam Speaker, one of the mayoral priorities of the GLU is the principle of an engaged citizenry. Now public participation carries that principle. Although governed by legislation based on the value of the property, it is important to get the community involved in government making decisions, and this is what we need to strive towards, the ultimatum involvement. Madam Speaker, I want to appreciate the support from Councillor Mohlala. And, uh, Councillor Telekoa your question or questions are noted, um, a follow-up responses will be provided to you, uh, progressive Councillor. Uh, Councillor Lebea, we welcome your inputs and, uh, Madam Speaker we are requesting Council to note the report. Thank you.

05:36:19Thank you MMC. The item is for the house to agree on it. The recommendations are on page 10.6. Is the item agreed to?

05:36:36isiZuluSiyabonga.

Item 11 (Farm Rietvlei 101-IR portions, public participation)

05:36:39We are now on item 11, which is the public participation for the proposed sale or lease for the development of Portion 16, remainder of Portion 31, remainder of Portion 34, the remainder of Portion 35, the remainder of Portion 36 and remaining extent of Portion 62 of Farm Rietvlei 101-IR. ActionSA Councillor Mohlala. Thank you very much Speaker and greetings to you once again. Greetings to our fellow councillors. Speaker, as we all know that, uh, public participation is a backbone of the community. It's very important as a government to go back to the very same government that you are representing to get their views on things at large Speaker. However Speaker, to save more time Speaker, I would love this item to go through and we note this report. Thank you very much Speaker. Thank you Councillor Mohlala. EFF Councillor Telekoa.

05:38:00isiZuluUh, angithokoze Speaker.

05:38:02Uh, I rise on item 11. We agree with the proposal, uh, or we note the report. Uh, and, uh, when I was, uh, uh, busy reading the, the document, it reads it say the objective says, looking at it, it says the objective it says the purpose of this submission is to recommend approval to initiate the public participation process for the proposed development and long-term lease or sale. The emphasis on my side is sale. Um, the city shouldn't be selling, uh, the land or properties. We should be leasing the land, uh, so that, uh, the next coming politicians or those who are elected into, uh, power in the, in the next, uh, 5, 10 or so years when they come they find the city resources or buildings still intact or still there. I thank you. Thank you Councillor. ANC Councillor Mabuza.

Item 12 (SCM acquisition status report): FF+ and photographer complaint

05:39:26Special greetings, uh, Madam Speaker, our Executive Mayor in absentia, our Acting Mayor of the session, our Mayoral Committee, our Chief Whip, Chair of Chairs and Chairs of different, uh, committees and fellow councillors, I greet you. I rise on item 11, public participation for the proposed sale or lease for the development of Portion 16, remainder of Portion 31, 34, 35, 36 and remaining extent of Portion 62 of Farm Rietvlei 101-IR. I will allude to the statement by COSATU that says there's nothing for us without us. And also former President Nelson Mandela will say people are their own liberators. It's such programs of public participation that empowers the people. Thanks to the ANC-led government and the ANC as a liberation movement in terms of democracy and give people power to decide their fate in adherence to democratic principles. Things are different now. It's no longer like before where apartheid government will take decision and forcefully remove people. These portions are appraised and clear of any encumbrances. Responsible ownership and competent property management has assumed. As the African National Congress we note the item. I thank you. Thank you Councillor Mabuza. MMC Mnisi. Thank you very much, uh, Madam Speaker. We have noted, uh, all the concerns from the councillors and, uh, just to mention and appreciate the support, uh, from other councillors and further to request Council to note the report as presented. Thank you. Siyabonga MMC. The recommendations are on page 11.7. Is the item agreed to? Thank you. Uh, Councillors item 12 is a Group Strategic Supply Chain Management acquisition status report reflecting bids considered and approved by the Accounting Officer for the period of 1st July 2024 to 30th of September 2024. The first speaker on this item from Freedom Front Plus Councillor Boer. Good afternoon again Madam Speaker, fellow councillors. I'm rising on actually item 12 and the same applies to 13 and 14. Madam Speaker, those items did not serve on Section 79 either. Um, these are bid adjudication reports, bid ratification reports, bid deviation reports. No councillor in this Council can comment on this report because we do not have the information. The report is just for noting, but supply chain management is one of the crucial sectors in the city where

Item 12: ACDP and DA (Pietersen)

05:42:49Councillor Boer, please hold on. Councillor Dammie. Speaker, there's someone who's taking photo up there. Please, can you, again you failed. There's a gentleman there taking photos.

05:43:06isiZuluCouncillor Dammie ngicela um-identify sibone uqgoke isikipha esinjani maybe. Mhlanhla protocol.

05:43:20Okay. All right. Councillor Boer, you can continue. Thank you Madam Speaker. Um, yes as I said supply chain management fulfills a critical role in awarding tenders in the city, and if the executive withholds our Section 79 Finance to do proper oversight of the bids that are adjudicated or deviated or ratified, um, that is a very serious concern, and we should have asked for these reports to be withdrawn and referred back to Section 79 before they get to Council again. And in future, we've asked the MMC so many times before those reports gets to the Council, let them first be discussed and subjected to oversight before they come to Council for, uh, for noting. Thank you Madam Speaker. Thank you Councillor. ACDP Councillor Mkhonza. Uh, Madam Speaker, in the absence of, um, Councillor Mkhonza, the ACDP notes the report and agrees that the report is made public in the prescribed manner. Thank you. Noted Councillor Harris. DA Councillor Pietersen. Thank you Speaker. Um, just want to be recorded that I'll be speaking on item 12, 13 and 14. Honorable Speaker, members of Council and esteemed colleagues, I stand before you today to address a matter of significant importance for our city. The Group Strategic Supply Chain Management acquisition status report, acquisition status, deviation and ratification and operational status reports being 12, 13 and 14. I like to call these the how long is a piece of string part of the program. Bear with me, I end up I believe that you will feel the same. The councillors in this chamber are being asked to note these reports. We are thereby acknowledging that we have read them and that the information therein has been understood. Further, that they meet the requirements of Supply Chain Management Policy of 2019 as amended in 2024. Many councillors in this chamber have taken advantage of the training offered by SALGA, the National Treasury and CIGFARO, and in each course emphasis is made that it is the responsibility of you and me dear colleagues, that is the councillors, to ensure that good governance is participated and that the necessary policies are put in place to empower us to do this. We are also asked to work deliberately and with urgency. Um, clearly the people at CIGFARO are getting anxious about the mismanagement of the City of Johannesburg by the ANC, Action, EFF, PA brand of GLU. Council has and must maintain an oversight role over the implementation of the SCM policy. However, councillors may never participate in the procurement process of the city by serving as a member or attending as a meeting, attending a meeting as an observer of the committees specifying, evaluating or approving quotations or bids. This is understood. Unfortunately, our MMC is not here to respond as most of the executive seems to be missing along with her. I guess the day has been a little long and it's chaila time. The policy also states that 7.2 the executive, oh, I see our Acting Executive Mayor is not here either. Okay. Well, I guess a sinking ship there's sometimes the captain disembarks first. Um, anyway, I'll speak to the empty, I mean the chamber, not the empty chamber, the chamber that is devoid of executives. Um, that this is important because the policy states the Executive Mayor

05:47:45Councillor Pietersen, please hold on. There's a hand that's raised on my right. Councillor Zigebe. Uh, Speaker, on a point of order. The speaker cannot mislead the public. The Acting Executive Mayor is here. If he doesn't see, he must go and change those glasses, they are not working.

05:48:08isiZuluUdlula nje namhlanje ngingenazo.

05:48:12Councillor Pietersen, you may continue. I suppose that's why it's important that they sit in the front. Just to help us people that need glasses. Moving on. Um, the Executive Mayor must provide general political guidance over the fiscal and financial affairs of the city and must monitor and oversee the and the exercise of responsibilities assigned to the City Manager and Chief Financial Officer in terms of Section 52 of the Act. Speaker through you, I bring this to the attention of the Executive Mayor somewhere over there. All reports shall be made public in accordance with Section 21A of the Municipal Systems Act. That is what we are doing here today. So please feel free to share these reports with your, uh, constituencies once we are done. There's quite a lot of interesting information there if you look closely. Looking at item number 12, the awards are listed as per the supply chain management reporting requirements. This is agreed. The City Manager must submit the following reports to the Council through the established channels, to the Council through the Mayoral Committee, quarterly reports or as soon as is practically possible. This item was approved by the Accounting Officer on the 2nd of September 2024, thereby missing two Council meetings and one quarterly before arriving here today. Obviously not meeting the requirements already. The report is required to contain the particulars of each final award, the particulars of each final award made by the adjudication committee during the month. The word particulars means detailed information about someone or something. Unfortunately, we are presented with the bare minimum details as listed in the SCM policy being the amount of the award, the name of the service provider to whom the award was made, the reason why the award was made to that service provider, and the B-BBEE status level of contribution of the service provider. So this is what is explicitly mentioned in the SCM policy. So let's go through the first one being the appointment of service providers to supply and deliver offloading of stationery stock items for a period of three years on an as and when basis. This means that if we run out of paper they come and deliver the paper for that quarter, that we may not see that person again for the rest of the year. So the reason is given for granting the award is as follows: 118 bids were received. 36 bidders were successful, and I say congratulations. May they continue to succeed and prosper. The Bid Evaluation Committee evaluated the bid in accordance with the specification of the bid. However, of great concern is that the BEC took a decision to recommend the highest bidder based on points, and this is repeated throughout the table for every bid being noted here today. In layman's terms, that means we went for the most expensive person. Remember we this is about stationery, so we're talking about pencils and rulers and paper. So, um, it's not complicated. And it's only for core. We're not talking about any other department, just for core. So the numbers are just for this big, this big empty building behind us. Yes. All that stationery, yeah, with a lot of stationery. Anyway, we're expected to note that the 36 bidders were graded by the BAC with the highest number of points and miraculously were all the highest bidder as well. Is this a remarkable coincidence in direct contradiction of the invisible hand of the market? A well-known concept that ensures value is being achieved through an open tender system. One has to ask how can 36 bidders all meet the requirements and be the highest bidder at the same time? Are we to believe that the lower bidders cannot read the bid specification documents? Do not forget that 82 more cost-effective bidders did not make the cut. The second part of the specified is the amount. This is where it gets really interesting. The report tells us that this is a three-year contract for R45 million. Remember this is just for core. It's not for the whole city. It's only for the people who are printing out our, I mean who are emailing our payslips to us. It does not indicate if this is inclusive or exclusive of VAT. Let us hope that this is not another oopsie that is going to make it to the deviation report as has happened in the past.

Item 12: Speaker rules on Cllr Pietersen's speaking time

05:53:20Councillor, please wrap up. After all, sorry? Please wrap up. Your eight minutes is almost up. I'm doing three items. I've got eight minutes on each item. Councillor Pietersen, on this particular item, you are the third speaker. Councillor Mkhonza was not offered the same opportunity and you did not ask the house, you told the house that you want to club them together. There was no agreement from the house, so you've got eight items, eight minutes on this item. Then Madam, then you didn't clarify that with me in the beginning either. Councillor, you've got 30 seconds remaining. Then I'd like to speak on item 13. You'll speak on it once it's tabled. Councillor, I'm confused or maybe are you new in Council? Are you new in Council? No, the last time we did this, um, Speaker, we grouped them and we, um, added the time together. You ask the house. You ask the house. But Councillor, your time has run out. Please have your seat. But you interrupted my time, so I need that time. Please have your seat. If you didn't stop the Keep on speaking. To be continued. Wait for the next installment. Councillor Pietersen, you're out of order.

Item 12: ActionSA, EFF and ANC

05:55:01ActionSA Councillor Molefe, you have five minutes. Thank you Madam Speaker and greetings to yourself, the Acting Mayor, Fabulous 44, all protocols observed. I rise to speak on item Uh-uh, Councillor Zitha again. I can hear your voice Councillor Zitha, please. Councillor Zitha, we're not going to go back and forth. Councillor Molefe, please continue. Thank you Speaker. I rise to speak on item 12, acquisition status report for the period of July 2024 to September 2024. Speaker, as ActionSA we'd like to believe that this report is submitted by Group Finance Strategic Supply Chain Management Unit. The objective is to access the report, to assess the report's transparency, compliance, competitive fairness and financial accountability while ensuring that Council exercise its full oversight responsibility. If indeed that is the case, in the light of the objective stated, we strongly recommend that this report first be tabled at Section 79 Committee for thorough scrutiny before submission to full Council. This will allow Council to support and note decisions based on comprehensive oversight and analysis. While the, while the report follows basic compliance, um, requirements, there are critical gaps in transparency, competitive bidding justifications, vendor evaluation, benchmarks and contract monitoring that Committee should have had sight of before bringing this item to this Council. We are concerned about the lack of transparency in the bid evaluation, selection process. This report does not provide a breakdown of bid scoring criteria, nor does it detail how points were allocated to bidders. We are concerned about justification of high-volume contracts. Contracts for two weeks media campaign appears very excessive with no cost breakdown. The 24 million firearm supply contract lacks a detailed price justification. We are concerned about the conflict of interest and due diligence gap. The report lists CIPC registration numbers, but does not disclose company ownership structures. There is no confirmation that winning bidders underwent due diligence screening. In order to strengthen Council's oversight functions, we request that these reports be tabled at Section 79 Committee before it's tabled to this Council. The, the rationale behind this request is that Section 79 Committee serves as critical oversight body that must scrutinize financial governance reports before they reach Council. Council members cannot exercise their full oversight role if reports are not first reviewed at committee level. Tenders involving high financial expenditure, 45 million award cannot be, sorry, tenders involving high financial, uh, uh, expenditure, 45 million for stationery, 24 million for firearms must undergo additional scrutiny to protect public funds. A report that deals with city finances and tenders awarded cannot just be noted Speaker for the sake of noting. We request full disclosure of bid evaluations, cost justifications and vendor due diligence reports. We ask the MMC to bring this house into full confidence and reinforce the executive's commitment to good governance, financial prudence and public accountability. We trust that executive will take this request into serious consideration and act accordingly in the public's interest. With that said Speaker, we note the report with great outlined concerns. Thank you. Thank you Councillor Molefe. EFF Councillor Nethamba. Thank you Speaker. As the EFF we note the report. Siyabonga Councillor. ANC Councillor Buthelezi. Um, thank you Speaker and good afternoon to you. Good afternoon to the Acting Mayor, the MMCs present, the Chairpersons of committees and the councillors at large. Uh, Speaker, in one of the sessions that we once had, one of the professors was asked a question as to why our country is actually collapsing. And his

06:00:00said, if politicians that are elected by communities to come in council, legislature and in parliament can stop campaigning during their era of of providing service delivery, our country will be a better country. I agree with him. I agree simply because right now, there's been an echoing sound that seeks to say this particular report didn't pass section 79.

06:00:30The question is before things are approved for us to sit here, where did they start? And do we have people that are representing all this political parties here? So the blame shouldn't be about whosoever, but all of us should be taking that responsibility. With that being said, we are actually noting the report as the ANC.

Item 12: MMC Masuku responds and item agreed

06:00:54Thank you, Councillor Buthelezi. MMC Masuku.

06:01:00Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Good afternoon and the Acting Executive Mayor. Madam Speaker, through you, let me just address the issue raised by Councillor Pietersen, and also raised by Councillor Molefe. Madam Speaker, the the report, if you check page 12.2,

06:01:28and I want to read it verbatim. In terms of regulation 6(1), read with regulation 6(2) of the Municipal Supply Chain Management Regulations issued in terms of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 56 of 2003, comma, the council of the municipality must maintain oversight over the implementation

06:01:57of its supply chain management policy. This report has been compiled in terms of that particular section. It further states as Councillor Harris put it when he was noting the report, it further states that the report will be made public in the manner prescribed in regulation 6(4). Now if councillors don't know what those regulations mean, it's not for us to take out the regulations and attach them here. We take it that councillors who are

06:02:27here would understand what those regulations means. That's the first point in respect of Councillor uh Pietersen who was actually belittling the work that is being done to bring these reports that come far back as July. So in terms of that, we've complied. And I agree with you, Councillor Molefe that this should be about transparency and compliance, and uh full disclosure. There's nothing stopping you, councillors, from saying,

06:02:55now that you've done what the regulations expect of bringing this to council, we would like to have an opportunity in the section 79 to further scrutinize and do oversight so that going forward when these are done in line with the regulations, section 79 can have the bite. There's nothing stopping you as councillors to do that and take that resolutions and it can the terms of reference of section 79 actually

06:03:24permit that you can do that. So I don't see where the problem is. The executive has fully complied. The executive mayor is in the chamber the acting executive mayor is in the chamber, fully attentive and you know, um there was this one uh song by by by kids when they grew up. They said, um sometimes Jesus can heal one blind man, um and um those who may be uh lazy to read. Uh there was a blind man who stood today, who said

06:03:54the acting executive mayor is in the chamber, but all of us could see that the acting executive mayor is seated here. Lastly, I want to implore councillors to please read regulations. Don't be selective when you read regulations. Read with understanding, but it doesn't stop your role of oversight even when a report has passed through council. So utilize your section 79 effectively and stop coming to council to score cheap political points like Councillor Buthelezi has rightly put it, because everyone seems to be at campaigning phase

06:04:24instead of focusing on what is important, which is to read and make sure that what has been adjudicated and awarded has been passed and it goes through publicly and the public can see it. We ask council to note the content of the report as well as all the work that we have done and the compliance and so that the public can have access to this particular report. We thank you, Madam Speaker.

06:04:53Thank you, MMC. The recommendations are on page 12.3. Is the item agreed to?

06:05:05Thank you, councillors.

Item 13 (SCM deviation and ratification reports): debate

06:05:09Uh councillors, we proceed with item 13, which is group strategic supply chain management deviation and ratification reports that were considered and approved by the accounting officer for the period July 2024 to September 2024.

06:05:22ACDP, Councillor Harris.

06:05:27Thank you once again, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak to item 13. The final SCM policy states deviations from the procurement process contained in this policy are not encouraged and shall only be allowed in the circumstances provided for in paragraph 33.1. In other words, it is not a preferred form of procurement. The risks attached to deviations include irregularity due to poor planning, repeatclaim

06:05:57Auditor-General findings, and budget over-expenditure. In addition, deviation is not consistent with the SA Constitution section 217, which states that when an organ of state contracts for goods and services, it must do so in accordance with principles of fairness, equitability, transparency, competitiveness, and cost-effectiveness. I want to highlight just two items. The approval of the procurement of buses from the Mbombela Concessionclaim

06:06:27was granted by the Executive Adjudication Committee on the 23rd of June 2023 and approved by the accounting officer on the 18th of August 2023. Why is this reported as a deviation now, or was the deviation approved at that time already? There is no logical explanation as to why normal procurement processes

06:06:49Councillor Harris? Councillors on my right-hand side are struggling to hear you. If you can speak into the mic.claim

06:06:59Certainly. There's no logical explanation as to why normal procurement processes must be circumvented in appointing Microsoft to provide licenses. There's no clarity whether this is an extension of a previous contract. It is deeply concerning that the spending of 757.7 million rand is not subjected to the normal procurement process. There's also very scant details surrounding this deviation. This rises raises more

06:07:29questions than answers. The ACDP suggests this report be tabled for discussion by the section 79 committee so that clarity can be obtained. The risks attached to this deviation are enormous. The contents the contents of the report is noted. The ACDP places on record though its concerns about Mbombela and Microsoft deviations. I thank you.

06:07:55Thank you, Councillor Harris. Moving to DA, Councillor Pietersen. Councillor Pietersen, you are speaking on item 13 and you have eight minutes.

06:08:06Thank you for your guidance, Speaker. Much appreciated. Item number 13, deviation ratification report for the period July to September 2024. Seems to meet all the requirements, although it must be noted that these contracts have not been presented to the finance committee to allow us to draw any conclusions as to whether the ratepayer is getting value or whether citizen is going to realize the service. I have checked the restricted supplier database of the National Treasury,claim

06:08:36and out of a total of 224 suppliers registered to since 2016, none of the suppliers are listed in the uh deviation ratification report. What I did find on the restricted supplier database is that Johannesburg Water has reported 14 suppliers. So why mention Joburg Water in this report if you're only referring to core? The reason, my fellow councillors, is that no other departmentclaim

06:09:05from the City of Johannesburg has reported any suppliers to National Treasury, as per their list covering the period 2016 to 2025. Does this mean that the BEC is so formidable and efficient that all the suppliers comply 100% over the last eight years? Then what explains all those UIFWs we are compelled to write off ever so often? If the suppliers are all compliant, then the fault must be with the officials. Councillors, do you see the problem? Something does not add up.

06:09:35National Treasury says that it is incumbent on the city to provide the necessary inputs to National Treasury for them to load the restricted suppliers as determined by the accounting officer of an institution. We could all be getting strung along for all we know. The DA notes this report with reservations. Thank you, Speaker.

06:09:54Thank you, Councillor Pietersen. ActionSA, Councillor Molefe.

06:10:07Thank you, Speaker. I rise to speak on item 13, supply chain management deviation and ratifi and ratification reports approved for the period July 2024 to September 2024. Speaker, as ActionSA, we are concerned about the excessive reliance on procurement deviations. This report shows that multiple high-value contracts were awarded without a competitive bidding process, which contradicts the principle of fairness, competitiveness, transparency, and cost-effectiveness.claim

06:10:36The Microsoft contract, 727 million, and the bus fleet procurement of 80 million are particularly sorry, are particularly concerning as they could have benefited from open market competition. Repeated failure of open tenders, for example, Economic Development's procurement of a business information portal suggest poor market engagement and unrealistic tender specifications.claim

06:11:06The question we ask ourselves is: Are the deviations being used as shortcut instead of ensuring a competitive process? Are deviations being granted to the same services providers without checking past performances? For example, there was a contract extension without competitive market testing. 251 million legal service contract was extended across multiple law fla for law firms without retendering. Long-term extensions without market testing could lead to the inflated cost and lack of accountability.claim

06:11:36One that raises huge concern, Speaker, is the Microsoft procurement deviation, 727 million, is excessively high and lacks justification regarding whether alternative vendors were considered or not. The report highlights serious procurement and weakness that could lead the City of Johannesburg to financial risk, infici inefficiencies, and potential corruption. The lack of competitive procurement, failure to check contract performance, and weak public accountability requires urgent reform.claim

06:12:06If we ignore this, deviation may become a norm instead of an exception, undermining good governance and financial accountability. I thank you, Speaker.

06:12:19Thank you, Councillor. EFF, Councillor Nethamba.

06:12:29Uh thank you, Speaker. As the EFF, we note the report.

06:12:35isiZuluSiyabonga, Khansela.

06:12:37ANC, Councillor Buthelezi.

06:12:39Thank you, Speaker. Um those who know English better, they'll say every dark cloud has a silver lining. With uh colleagues raising an issue of uh the bidder that is of the highest note, it could be a silver cloud in a sense that we're no longer going to have a lot of deviations. Thank you very much, and I'd like to note the report as the ANC.

Item 13: MMC Masuku on Microsoft licence; Boer point of order

06:13:06Thank you, Councillor Buthelezi. MMC Masuku.

06:13:12Uh thank you, Speaker. I think without belaboring the point, I think um the councillors um have articulated why this report comes to council in terms of the supply chain regulations and the circumstances that it has to come uh to council for. And I think it's important for us to explain the concern on the Microsoft uh license that has been raised by um the councillors. It's a licenseclaim

06:13:41for the entire city. And the 727 million is actually the maximum licenses that the city can buy. And I think it's important for us to understand that uh Microsoft does not tender uh because it is the original equipment manufacturer. So they are the owners of the Windows program, including Outlook, for an example, as a as an application. So Microsoft does not tender, andclaim

06:14:11we pay in US dollars at around 170 million a year. So if you check uh best practice, even the State Information Agency uses this particular process and this regulation because of Microsoft being the um actual um OEM. And so it is beyond our control, and we are guided by the pricing schedule that is even approved used by other uh state agencies

06:14:40as well. So I thought it was important for me to clarify that concern coming from councillors, so we put everyone at ease that there is nothing that is actually untoward because that is um the situation that we are faced with in line with what um Councillor Harris had raised in the supply chain regulation 36, where um in cases it's an emergency or we need to buy special works or where it is impossible or impractical for us to actually use the procurement processes, and this

06:15:10is one of them. Thank you. We ask council to note.

06:15:14Thank you, MMC. Councillor Boer or Councillor De Lange? Between the two. Councillor Boer.

06:15:21Um Madam Speaker, I just wanted to raise a point of order on the MMC, which is already finished, but she must not she must not mislead the house. She spoke of we paying 170 million US dollars per year to Microsoft. 170 million dollars is 2.72 billion rand at 17 rand against the dollar. So it's much three times more than the 720. Thank you.claim

06:15:44Thank you, Councillor Boer. She is done, we can't debate that now. MMC?

06:15:53The rules allow me to rise on a point of personal explanation, Madam Speaker, through you. Councillor Boer must please be more attentive. I was just explaining how we pay, but I was very clear that out of the 727 million, the current spending in the current is actually 170 million a year. So he must please pay attention when we speak, unless we must use Afrikaans. Thank you.

06:16:20Councillors, the debate is closed. The recommendations are on page 13.3. Is the item agreed to? Thank you, councillors.

Item 14 (SCM operational status report): debate

06:16:37Councillors, uh item 14 is the group strategic supply chain management operational status report for the period 1st July 2024 to 30th of September 2024.

06:16:52The first speaker is from ACDP, Councillor Mkhonza is not here. So it will be you, Councillor Harris.

06:16:58Uh thank you, Madam Speaker. The ACDP notes the report and the annexures. Thank you.

06:17:06Thank you, Councillor. DA, Councillor Pietersen, you have eight minutes.

06:17:14Thank you, Speaker. You really missed some juicy bits on the first one, but I'll proceed. I will send them to our press release instead, not to worry. Item 14, operational status uh reports. Now this uh mentions this is based on warehouses and uh speaks about the goods that are received and issued. So one of these warehouses, which uh the committee did do an oversight on, is in Smit Street, and that is where the cityclaim

06:17:44inexplicably stores large quantities of ink cartridges. Many of them are obsolete. Let that sink in for a while. We buy ink cartridges that are now obsolete. Colleagues, the value of these obsolete ink cartridges is probably, and I guess because the report is very thin, around 90 million rand. We continue to buy ink cartridges every month, mostly around 8 million rand.claim

06:18:13The store issued 76,000 items to a value of 8 million rand. No detail is shared on what these items are, so no informed opinion can be established as to whether the ratepayer and citizens' interests are being protected and respected. This averages out to just over 100 rand per item issued. Given the wide value mix of items at the store, one cannot monitor the number of high-value cartridges which are being issued. We cannot determine if these cartridges are indeed going to their rightful departments, linking itclaim

06:18:43uh department and linking it to the likely output. I understand that it is the job of the Group Audit Committee, but where are their reports reassuring council that this work is being done? Where are we given the opportunity to practice effective oversight? It must be noted that during the same period, Main Street issued 18,000 items, and this is where the toilet rolls and cleaning materials are kept. So given the detail on this report, we can conclude that we are issuing four times more stationery than toilet rolls and detergents.

06:19:14Conclusion: Section 73 of 7.3 of the SCM policy states that for the purposes of such oversight, the city manager shall within 10 days of the end of each quarter submit a report on the implementation of this policy, specifically as outlined in section 8, to the Executive Mayor and council, and within 30 days of the end of each financial year, submit a report for the financial year to council.

06:19:44It is reported that SIU, via Advocate Mothibi, has recommended that the City of Johannesburg subject all SCM officials to lifestyle audits. Mr. Mayor, in absentia, um and the city manager to be, we look to you for leadership on this, as is required by section 7.4 of the SCM policy of the City of Johannesburg, which states that if any serious or material problems or breaches arise in relation to the implementation

06:20:14of this policy, the city manager shall report such to council as soon as it is reasonably possible, but no longer than 30 days after he or she has become aware of such a breach. We are holding our breath. So my dear colleagues, the SCM policy of the City of Johannesburg, as thin as it is, does describe action which needs to be taken by the executive. However, we need this policy to be bolstered, thus empowering us to practice effective oversight on the BAC, BEC,

06:20:43and BSC. Through you, Speaker, I ask that the city manager, when he is appointed, makes it his priority to review the SCM policy so that we can earn our lunch when we come to council. The DA recommends that these reports be referred to GCSS as well as finance so that council can fulfill its oversight mandate. The reports are noted with reservation. Thank you.

06:21:11Thank you, Councillor Pietersen. You're the perfect example of a councillor that does not take accountability for your lack of listening skills. We've always done this in council. The Secretary of Council reads the item, then after that we call speakers. So please don't embarrass the presiding officer in front of the residents of the City of Johannesburg. This council has 270 councillors, not one who controls the house.

06:21:41Ma'am, your ad hominem attack is keep in keeping with the company of the

06:21:51ActionSA, Councillor Molefe.

06:22:01Thank you, Speaker. I rise to speak on item for item 14, um operational status reports for group strategic supply chain management 2024 to September 2024. Um we note the report, Speaker, with one concern regarding with main concern regarding contracts that are set to expire within the next 12 months, including key services such as public transport, ICT support.

06:22:30The report does not provide a renewal plan or mitigation strategy to avoid emergency extensions. What measures are being taken to ensure that contract renu renewals are timely and follow competitive procurement processes to prevent disruption? In noting the report, Speaker, we urge the executive to please conduct a full audit of all the city department stock and remove outdated unused items. We ask that they improve stock planning to prevent overpurchasing

06:23:00and ensure departments only order what they need. We've conducted an oversight, Speaker, and I can confidently say that majority of our stores are packed with dead stock. We ask that they increase uh transparency by reporting on dead stock levels, write-offs, and disposable plans in future updates. Redirect redirect savings from clearing dead stock into improving services service delivery. We ask that action be taken to reduce waste

06:23:30in the city's supply chain. Thank you, Speaker.

06:23:36Thank you, Councillor Molefe. EFF, Councillor Nethamba.

06:23:48Uh thank you, Speaker. As the EFF, we note the report.

06:23:56isiZuluSiyabonga, Khansela.

06:23:59ANC, Councillor Buthelezi.

06:24:01Thank you, Speaker. As the ANC, we note the report. Thank you.

06:24:06isiZuluSiyabonga, Khansela Buthelezi.

Item 14: MMC Masuku replies and item agreed

06:24:09MMC Masuku.

06:24:12Thank you, Speaker. Um we note the comments, and Councillor Molefe, you are correct uh from ActionSA. One of the things we have actually raised in the mayoral committee uh very strongly was the issue of reduction of waste, um as well as dealing with um the the the referrals in terms of um officials who actually don't do um the work in terms of what is uh supposed

06:24:42to be done. That's why the disciplinary board is one of um the committees that we've insisted um is fully functional in the City of Johannesburg because if there's uh dere if there's neglect and dereliction of duties, it means we are actually not uh intending to deal with fruitless and waste uh wasteful expenditure in the City of Joburg. And I think MPAC has also come out very strongly in terms of how we need to deal with that in terms of

06:25:12consequence um management. And the issue of uh the Group CFO and the and the acting city manager are seized with this issue of contract management. We've said we need to ensure that we have a specific focus in terms of strengthening our contract management in the City of Johannesburg. And I think the finance section 79 committee councillors have also emphasized this point in terms of contract management in our institution, because the reason why you also end up having

06:25:42to do deviations and extensions is because somebody sits and waits for a particular contract to end, whereas 18 months before a three-year contract would have ended, you are supposed to then have started with the processes because you know that they take 15 to 18 months or so at the bare minimum. So we've also raised that strongly and we've received commitment from um the Group CFO to deal with that. And collectively, I think as council, we are correct

06:26:12to make sure that we monitor that there is improvement in the in the in the near future reports. We note the comments and we don't have a problem. We we don't have a problem with the request by uh Councillor Pietersen to send this to GCSS and to the finance uh um oversight committee. Thank you. We ask council to note.

06:26:38Thank you, MMC Masuku. The recommendations are on page 14.14. Is the item agreed to? Thank you, councillors.

Item 15 (HIV/AIDS conditional grant): GOOD, UIM, IFP, ATM, UDM

06:27:00Uh we proceed with item 15, which is the acceptance of the HIV/AIDS conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Health to implement the HIV and AIDS door-to-door HIV education program and AIDS council uh coordination for the 2024/25 financial year.

06:27:22The first speaker from GOOD, Councillor Cook.

06:27:31Thank you, Madam Speaker. Um in the interest of time saving, GOOD notes the report. Thank you.

06:27:40Thank you, Councillor Cook. UIM, Councillor Abdool.

06:27:47Thank you, Madam Speaker. Good afternoon, colleagues. I would just like to appreciate the Department of Health for their contribution towards this initiative. It is very much needed. I would just like to request that when I noted or seen that there will be reports given quarterly, et cetera, I would like the following to be added in the quarterly reports,

06:28:17that is the names of the wards, the 75 wards that will be benefiting, and I would like to know of the 560 field workers, the 458 um people that will be working there, I don't remember what the title is, and as well as the 94 ward team leaders, the eight coordinators, I'd like to know what is their employment equity,

06:28:46how many of what race is representative because uh the City of Joburg comprises of all races, and uh I would just like that to to be put out there. Then I would like to also recommend that I see that the program is for youth. However, it is not just youth that is impacted by HIV. It is also married couples, and there's this phenomena of sugar daddies

06:29:16out there. We have seen over the Christmas season that children have been impregnated by adult men, and um it is a problem. So I would like to recommend or ask if this team of people, hard-working people, will also consider engaging with married couples or families. And other than that, the UIM notes the report.

06:29:45Thank you, Councillor Abdool. IFP, Councillor Nkomo.

06:29:54isiZuluEh Somlomo, ngisukuma nokukubingelela.

06:30:02isiZuluNgibingelele no, no acting mayor, uBab' uMabaso. Mtatazelisi, unxiwankulu. Bemphike bembona. Inkunz' encane, encane yakwaMtungwa ngaphakath' e-chamber. Sibingelele uWhip of Council, uBab' uManzini.

06:30:32Chairs of chairs, Chair of Chairs,

06:30:35isiZuluuBab' uMarema. Ngibingelela wonk' amakhansela ngaphakathi.

06:30:48isiZuluEh, Speaker,

06:30:54isiZulunjenge-IFP, sisukuma nokuyemukela i-grant esaziyo kakhulu ukuthi izosiza ukuqwashisa umphakathi wakithi ukuthi isifo sisekhona futhi siyabulala.

06:31:17isiZuluSiyabonga futhi kakhulu ngoba siyazi ukuthi amathuba noma engemanga kanani kodwa khona azosiza ikakhulukazi intsha yakithi e-South Africa. Esikucelayo nje kukodwa sicel' ukuba i-recruitment system nom' i-criteria ibe-transparent nanokuthi siyafisa ku-consider-we indaba yokuthi ku-benefit-e abantu

06:31:49isiZulubakwi-local. Siyabonga kakhulu eh Speaker wethu.

06:31:59isiZuluSiyabonga Khansela Nkomo.

06:32:02ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

06:32:08Madam Speaker, fellow councillors, I rise before this esteemed council today with a deep sense of urgency and responsibility. We are facing a crisis that affects not just individuals, but entire communities. HIV/AIDS remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Johannesburg and beyond. Today, I implore this council to approve this conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Healthclaim

06:32:38to implement the HIV/AIDS door-to-door program. The City of Johannesburg has the highest number of people living with HIV of any city in the world. In 2018, 10.84% of the city's population was HIV positive. And in 2022, the prevalence was significantly higher among people aged between 25 and 49 years, females and those living in rural areas.claim

06:33:08Certain groups such as, as female sex workers, people who inject drugs, and MSM groups are disproportionately affected. Over the past 10 years, the number of people living with HIV in Johannesburg has been increasing proportionally, though at a decreasing rate. While HIV prevalence has declined among younger age groups compared to 2017, new infections remain a concern.

06:33:39Particularly among older population. We have all seen the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS on families, on the economy, on the social fabric of our communities. Without adequate funding, our city risks reversing the progress made in combating this disease. The funding before us today is not just a financial contribution, it is a lifeline for those in need, a commitment to our people,

06:34:08and a moral duty to ensure that no one is left behind in this fight. Additionally, we must acknowledge the indispensable role of awareness and education in tackling this epidemic. Many communities remain misinformed about HIV/AIDS, leading to stigma, discrimination, and reluctance to seek treatment. Through this grant, we can strengthen awareness campaigns, equip healthcare workers with the necessary resources,

06:34:39and work towards an inclusive, informed society that prioritizes health and dignity for all. Honorable councillors, Johannesburg has endorsed the Paris Declaration and remains committed to achieving global AIDS targets. Studies, studies estimate that reaching Fast-Track targets could significantly reduce new

06:35:02Please wrap up, Councillor.

06:35:04infections and deaths by 20, by 2030. I therefore request council to approve this grant.

06:35:14isiZuluSiyabonga Khansela Magwentshu.

06:35:16UDM, Councillor Zigebe, you have 3 minutes.

06:35:33MMC Magwentshu, is your mic off?

06:35:41IT, please assist.

06:35:51Try again, Councillor.

06:35:53Thank you, Speaker. Okay, I'm audible. I hope that did not take a second from my 3 minutes. Speaker, I've learned that listening skill and, you know, eyesight skills are important in council today. Um the Government of Local Unity tasked with ensuring that the resources allocated to combat HIV/AIDS are maximized for the benefit of our people. We recognize the historical impact of the Jozi Ihlomile door-to-door HIV and AIDS

06:36:24education program and we commend the efforts made in reaching our communities across Johannesburg. The 32.1 million HIV and AIDS conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Health has been instrumental in expanding community-based interventions. Over the past financial year, this initiative as reported has reached 2.6, 2.65 million people across 1.1 million households, provided education referrals for HIV, TB, and STIs,claim

06:36:55created employment for 560 field workers under the EPWP, strengthened AIDS Council coordination and intersectional collaboration. We must commend these efforts, which demonstrate the city's commitment to delivering healthcare at the doorstep of our communities, especially in previously marginalized areas. While these numbers are encouraging, we must now deepen our understanding of the program's impact to enhance accountability and inclusivity. We call on the department to provide further demographic insightsclaim

06:37:27regarding youth engagement as to how many young people have benefited from the program, women and gender inclusion, what percentage of those reached and employment and employed are women, persons with disabilities, how has the program accommodated people with disabilities, both as beneficiaries and as employees, employment statistics, beyond the 560 field workers, how many have transitioned into permanent employment, if any. These insights must be formally presented or reported,

06:37:58ensuring our interventions are not only widespread, but also equitably distributed across vulnerable groups. Honorable Speaker, we must also acknowledge an emerging global challenge. It has been widely reported that President Donald Trump's administration intends to cut USAID funding, which will undoubtedly impact global HIV and AIDS initiatives, including PEPFAR funded programs in South Africa. While this poses a significant challenge to our fight against HIV and AIDS, it

06:38:29also presents an opportunity for us to be proactive. We must engage both the provincial and national departments of health to ensure that local production of ARVs, PEP, and PrEP remains uninterrupted, support black-owned pharmaceutical companies to strengthen local supply chains and reduce reliance on external funding, especially coming from the West, leveraging, leverage Aspen's local manufacturing plant to scale up production and distribution,

06:38:55Please wrap up, Councillor.

06:38:56securing a sustainable pipeline for essential HIV/AIDS medication. As a governing collective, our role is not merely to accept grants, but to ensure that they translate into sustainable impact. We must support continuation of this program to ensure the continuity of HIV and AIDS program amidst global shifting dynamics. Thank you.

Item 15: DA, ActionSA, EFF and ANC

06:39:19Thank you, Councillor Zigebe. DA, Councillor Jacobs.

06:39:34Thank you, Madam Speaker. All protocol observed. I rise to speak on Item 15 regarding the acceptance of the conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Health to implement the HIV and AIDS door-to-door program for the 2024/2025 financial year. On the 20th of January 2025, the United States issued an executive order to re-evaluate and realign its foreign aid. Given that South Africa relies on this funding to support over 5.9 million peopleclaim

06:40:04on ARV treatments, a funding cut would have been, would have had devastating consequences, potentially costing loss of lives and jobs. However, thanks to the swift intervention of the DA, which engaged directly with the US Secretary of State, a waiver was secured and lives were saved. This raises a critical question. What proactive steps has the City of Johannesburg takenclaim

06:40:34to ensure sustainability and self-reliance in public health funding? It is unacceptable for Johannesburg, a global economic hub, to continuously depend on external aid while failing to eliminate corruption that diverts resources meant for the most vulnerable. Madam Speaker, as we deliberate on Item 15, we must scrutinize this grant allocation. While the grant amount of 32.12claim

06:41:04million is a significant investment, the financial breakdown raises red flags. A discrepancy of 1.47 million exists between the grant amount and the fourth quarter performance reports, an issue that requires urgent explanation. Recruitment transparency is lacking. No new adverts for educator, site coordinators, or data coordinators have been placed since January, sorry, June 2023, raising concernsclaim

06:41:34about the selection process. While 560 temporary jobs are commendable, this does not address the core issue, ensuring access to life-saving antiretroviral treatment. Additionally, government inconsistencies persist. The mayoral report was drafted in May 2024, yet despite all relevant signatories finalizing approvals by July 2024, the Executive Mayor only signed offclaim

06:42:04on the 29th of October 2024. This raises concerns about decision-making efficiency and procedural integrity. Section 5, page 15.4 of the report, explicitly states that the Executive Mayor has delegated authority to accept the conditional grant. As the DA, we will hold this government accountable for every cent spent, ensuring that the public funds are used for their intended purpose, saving lives.claim

06:42:34The Democratic Alliance stands for efficient governance, financial transparency, and measurable impact. We demand, yes, Madam Speaker, we demand a full audit of grant expenditures to be conducted, recruitment processes for program staff be publicly advertised and independently verified, an action plan to be, to be presented on how this program will contribute directly to reducing HIV and AIDSclaim

06:43:04infections and improving treatment accessibility. Given the discrepancies, lack of transparency, and governance failures surrounding this grant, the DA

06:43:15Please wrap up, Councillor.

06:43:16cannot support this item in its current form. We demand accountability before public funds are allocated with proper, or without proper oversight, because at the end of the day, good governance saves lives. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

06:43:34Thank you, Councillor Jacobs. ActionSA, Councillor Johnson.

06:43:47Madam Speaker, honorable councillors, the fabulous 44, amakhosi, izinduna, guests, and the fellow residents of the City of Johannesburg, I rise to address Item 15, the acceptance of the HIV/AIDS conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Health. This grant will fund critical door-to-door HIV education programs and AIDS, and AIDS Council coordination for the 2024/2025 financial year. As we gather here today,claim

06:44:17I'm reminded that HIV and AIDS continue to pose significant threats to our communities. Despite progress, this disease claims far too many lives, exacerbated by lack of awareness, education, and access to healthcare. As a council, we have a moral obligation to act. By accepting this grant, we demonstrate our commitment to combating this disease and supporting those affected. ActionSA notes this report and urges our council to work collaboratively,

06:44:48ensuring that this grant translates into tangible benefits for our communities. We must prioritize transparency, accountability, and effective oversight to guarantee that these funds serve the greater good, not individual interests. Let's harness this opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the Joburg residents. Speaker, ActionSA notes this report. I thank you.

06:45:18Thank you, Councillor Johnson. DA, Councillor Horwitz.

06:45:26Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to speak on Item 15, all protocol observed. The crux of Item 15 is to approve the redistribution of funds from the important supporting function of administration and service management to the ward-based door-to-door HIV and AIDS education program. Administration and service management is the monthly reporting on outcomes and finances, and also includes the coordination functions. In effect, what we are being asked to do isclaim

06:45:56to approve slashing the funding of the reporting and coordination element to a mere 1.6% of the total funding, a level which is woefully short for what it is intended to fund. This means a mere 500,000 rand out of a 32 million budget for these two functions. Can we objectively justify this? And saying City of Joburg is going to take on these costs, with what? We don't have the money. It's all very well saying CoJ will take it over, but when you're not transparentclaim

06:46:26about how much that is going to be, suspicion must be aroused. The Jozi Ihlomile door-to-door HIV and AIDS education program is a community-based initiative aimed at raising awareness about HIV and AIDS. The program focuses on providing education directly to people in their homes and local communities by using a door-to-door approach. Already 70% or 22.4 million of the 32 million is allocated

06:46:56to this element of the program. If we are to make effective efforts in the City of Joburg to tackle the HIV/AIDS epidemic, improve our people's health outcomes, and bring about not only a more informed society, but also an improved public health response, reporting is an important and key requirement. And the coordination of efforts by the various stakeholders ensures that two or perhaps even more stakeholders aren't doing the exact

06:47:26same thing, thereby creating fruitless and wasteful expenditure, the last thing we need. Annihilating the budget for the indispensable elements of reporting and coordination is ultimately a short-sighted dereliction of duty to our people. Sure, with the redirection of funds, more people can be hired for EPWP work. And while job creation is important, sustainable job creation must rather be prioritized

06:47:56over short-term, election-driven EPWP jobs that do not address the structural employment crisis in Johannesburg. It is imperative that we look at what is truly being given up to provide smalanyana jobs, and more to the point, whether the utility of doing so outweighs the utility of proper reporting, because accurate reporting on HIV and AIDS programs is crucial, it's critical for a variety

06:48:26of reasons, not least the saving of livelihoods, and even more importantly perhaps, the saving of lives themselves. Acknowledging that accurate and reliable data helps public health policymakers, officials, and organizations make informed decisions is vital. Appropriate reporting could mean better resource allocation overall, improved planning for future programs, or even the next phase of the current program, all from understanding what is working and what needs

06:48:56adjusting through real-time reporting, not something we'll be getting with this kind of slashing of the budget. Reporting helps to ensure that funds allocated for the program are being used effectively and for their intended purpose.

06:49:10Please wrap up, Councillor Horwitz.

06:49:12Reporting on outcomes also helps to identify any gaps or inefficiencies. For example, are we reducing transmission rates? Are we increasing awareness? Are we improving access to treatment, or we needing to increase our outreach efforts? This is also very important. When facts are clearly and correctly reported, it helps fight stigma and fear. The Democratic Alliance cannot support the proposed request to the Gauteng Provincial Health Department for the redistribution of funds away from the reporting and coordination functions, because this

06:49:42undermines those two core principles of democratic governance for our people, which the Democratic Alliance stands strongly by. Thank you, Speaker.

06:49:54Thank you, Councillor Horwitz. EFF, Councillor Ntoele.

06:50:08Um thank you, Speaker. Greetings to the EFF caucus leadership, um our fellow councillors, and the member of public in the gallery. Speaker, I rise on Item 15. Um Speaker, South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV and AIDS, lives with new infection in the world, with the estimated 7.8 million people affected.claim

06:50:38The country has also run the largest HIV treatment program with approximately 5.9 million people receiving life-saving antiretroviral therapy since 2004. The PEPFAR has funded over 1,250 community-based organization that provides essential HIV and TB services. Um Speaker, in closing, we cannot shy away fromclaim

06:51:08the fact that this grant will be of great help since the withdrawal of the US from the US funding. As the EFF, we note and approve the report. I thank you.

06:51:27Thank you, Councillor. ANC, Councillor Mpotulo. I hope I didn't butcher your surname there, Councillor.

06:51:41Uh greetings, Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor, Acting Executive Mayor, Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso, all MMCs present, Chief Whip, Councillor Zungu, Chair of Chairs, Councillor Marema, Chair of Committees, fellow councillors. I rise on Item 15 regarding the acceptance of the HIV and AIDS

06:52:11conditional grant from the Gauteng Department of Health to implement the HIV and AIDS door-to-door and education program for HIV and AIDS and AIDS Council coordination for the 2024/2025 financial year. As the ANC, we are pleased with the increase in funding, as it presents a valuable opportunity to create more jobs.

06:52:41The Jozi Ihlomile team, an extension of health workers, plays a crucial role, especially given the withdrawal of funding from the United States. We also commend the provincial government for the care and, and commitment shown to the residents of Gauteng. We urge this council to support and accept uh the grant.

06:53:11Thank you, Speaker.

06:53:12isiXhosaSiyabulela.

06:53:22isiZuluSiyabonga Khansela.

Item 15: MMC Masuku responds

06:53:23MMC Masuku.

06:53:27Uh thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Um just to, firstly, Councillor Nkomo,

06:53:34isiZuluyebo siyavuma ukuthi lesi sifo sikhona futhi siyabulala, ene ikakhulu siqhuba ulusha lwethu. Ene kuhle ukuthi uhulumeni wephondo laseGauteng ubone ukuthi aqhubekeke asi-allocate-ele ngoluhlobo. Ene sizwile ukuthi isicelo sokuthi kube ne-transparency,

06:53:59and I think it also came from Councillor Abdool on the issue of requesting that when there's a, you know, the report goes to Section 79, can there be clarity on the wards. I think that's a fair point in terms of the wards, as well as the employment equity. I think um Health Department would have to get that once it's, the recruitment is done so that GCSS um actually provides

06:54:29those uh statistics. I think that's also a fair point. Um Councillor Zigebe, you, you are more than correct. I think it's part and parcel of um ensuring um economic uh transformation on the issue of black-owned pharmaceuticals, because it provides an opportunity to enter the market which has always been ring-fenced for the previously advantaged. And I think um your, your input

06:54:59is well noted. Um yes, and of course, I think all of us agree that this is a demonstration of the commitment to serve the residents of Joburg by ensuring that we are able to um note and approve this particular grant. And we take note of your concerns uh Councillor uh Horwitz. Yes, we do have a structural employment crisis. Uh but the intention of this um is to, for the door-to-door, the work, the

06:55:29activists, it's for them to do this work, and it's clear that there's no permanency attached to it. And I think your point speaks to the statistics in terms of the youth unemployment in our country and in Joburg in totality. And I think there are interventions that government is making uh in terms of um stimulating and dealing with uh youth unemployment. President Ramaphosa has made um commitments, and I think let's give it um an opportunity in the, in the new GNU,

06:56:01where there have been a focus on uh youth employment, and I'm sure the State of the Nation Address on the 6th of February next week would articulate more on the plans that um the seventh administration has in dealing with this issue of unemployment. And the, the suggestion um on the fact uh Councillor, I think it comes from you, Councillor Abdool, that HIV/AIDS, yes, it affects young people, but however, there are also challenges in terms of uh married couples

06:56:31that can become infected through the uh current pandemic of younger girls, you mentioned the words uh sugar daddies who are advancing uh relationships with younger girls, but may be in, in uh committed relationships, and then those women are also affected by um this particular disease. And I think the point you are making is that we must be inclusive and also look at broadening that particular uh area of space. And I think the

06:57:01comments are indeed noted uh councillors, and we ask council to accept um this uh grant from the Gauteng Provincial uh Department of Health and Treasury. Thank you, Speaker.

06:57:17Thank you, MMC Masuku. The recommendations are on page 15.5. Is the item agreed to?

Motion to rescind renaming of Sandton Drive to Leila Khaled

06:57:31Councillors, we're now on Item 8, and uh those are motions. Uh we currently have one motion, and that's the motion for council to rescind the approval of the motion to rename Sandton Drive to Leila Khaled. The proposer of this motion is Councillor Boer.

06:57:55Madam Speaker, for the last time today, it seems to me your office is making a habit, you put me up as the last speaker on the special meeting, and I'm the last speaker on this meeting as well. I'm rising on the motion um that uh to save some of the parties within the Government of Local Unity from the embarrassment to vote against this motion and a and vote against their conscience, the Freedom Front has decided to withdraw the motion. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

06:58:32Councillor Boer, did you withdraw the motion?

06:58:35Yes, Madam Speaker, we withdraw the motion.

06:58:40Noted.

Closure and adjournment

06:58:49Uh Councillors, we are now on uh closure.

06:58:55Councillors, we've come to the end of our meeting. Thank you so much, Councillors, for your contribution. The meeting is adjourned.

06:59:19Madam Speaker!

06:59:26Madam Speaker! Please, could we get the aircon fixed for the next meeting? Thank you.

06:59:33Here's the Secretary of Council. We are working on it. Andile? Andile, Councillor Rahn is speaking about the aircon. Yeah.

Recording continues after adjournment: debate on JPC quarterly performance

07:00:00that has been referred to. Thank you very much. I would assume, Councillor Xuma, maybe there was a specific page which you are referred to, where that statement has been extracted. Maybe you can mention the page as well, because in 4.3, I think she's correcting me that it talks about only the challenges.

07:00:25Which might be something different to what has been raised. Thank you. You may take the floor, Councillor Xuma.

07:00:34Yeah, Chair, I don't think a point of order can be a point of debate, like when the speaker is debating. You know when we assess our annual reports, we assess them paired with our IDP and the GDS report for the City of Johannesburg 2040. That comes naturally as how you oversight over a document, over and above what you are given now. You don't read a document in isolation with a close-minded... So...

07:01:02Chair, if you want me to submit that as a point of verify and also help her understand the GDS of the City of Johannesburg 2040, which she belongs here in terms of this municipality, I can help her to do that.

07:01:15Okay, alright. Thank you very much. Let's... Wait, wait, wait. Let's allow Councillor Xuma to proceed. Thank you very much. Let's not drown the speaker. Thank you. You are left with 46 seconds.

07:01:30Yeah, Chair, it's shameful when the City of Johannesburg councillors do not understand the GDS strategy 2040 of this municipality because every IDP is informed by the GDS 2040. Nonetheless, Chair, the JPC has only achieved a shocking 33% of overall performance in this quarter under review. This is regression compared to the previous fourth quarter where it achieved at least 50%.claim

07:01:55What is deeply concerning, Chair, is that they are burning issues within the JPC properties that are left unattended to. In conclusion, the DA recommends that a forensic investigation into all property hijackings within the city to uncover the networks behind these illegal activities and hold those responsible accountable. We also call for a comprehensive audit for all the city-owned properties to identify...claim

07:02:19Okay, your time has expired. Thank you very much, Councillor Xuma. I saw Councillor, the Chief Whip of ActionSA, raising his hand. Is it a point of order, Chair? Look at the... Chief Whip?

07:02:36Yes, Speaker, I rise on a point of order, automated rule 41 subsection C, automated with rule 73 subsection 1. Look, Acting Speaker, I want to bring it to your attention that...

07:02:50Even though we might try to sweep it under the carpet,