Transcript: 5th Special Council Meeting

Opening and roll call for tributes

00:00:00Councillor Modupi?

00:00:14Councillor Dammie, is Councillor Modupi in the house?

00:00:41Councillor Dammie, I'll just give you a moment. I'll move on to the Democratic Alliance, Councillor Sherman.

00:01:36IT, can you please assist Councillor Sherman?

DA tribute to the late Councillor Amad (Amod)

00:01:42I think I'm audible now. Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings to the Mayor, Dada Morero, our caucus leader, Councillor Belinda Echeozonjoku, Speaker of Council, Councillor Nobuhle Mthembu and all distinguished colleagues. To the bereaved families, our deepest condolences.

00:02:13Today I stand here to honour and remember a truly remarkable man, Councillor Shah Rukh Khan, Khana Amad. My best description of Councillor Amad is simply is simple, yet profound, a gentleman. He was the epitome of courtesy, honour and dignity.

00:02:40He carried himself with grace that made everyone around him feel respected and valued. His actions spoke of a noble soul, one deeply loved and admired by his community. Councillor Amad was not just a leader, he was a man of impeccable character. Always dressed to perfection, he had a reputation

00:03:09for his sharp, dapper appearance. Many of his male colleagues would find themselves asking, who tailored that suit? Or where did you get that cologne from? For he always smelled as though he had just stepped out of a luxury fragrance shop. But more than that, his outward appearance, it was his inner strength and warmth that made him truly unforgettable.

00:03:40He was a man dedicated to his faith and his religion, a devout Muslim whose life was an example of piety, devotion and humility. He balanced his spiritual commitment with an unwavering passion for education. As the Chairperson of the Coronationville Senior Secondary School SGB, Khana spent many years guiding

00:04:10and supporting students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He worked tirelessly to ensure that they had access to opportunities and pathways to universities and often going above and beyond to help those who needed it most. Councillor Amad was a true community activist.

00:04:39Someone who would never hesitate to lend a hand. His generosity knew no bounds. He would give his last to ensure that families in need had something to eat. His heart was always with his people, and he lived by the mantra, Jenn, as he would refer to me, we swore an oath. Always prioritizing the needsemotive

00:05:09of his constituents above all else. But beyond his dedication to his work, Khana was a man who brought joy to those around him. His welcoming smile, his infectious humour and easy-going nature will forever be etched in our memories. He had a unique sense of humour, one that could lightenemotive

00:05:39any room and make everyone else feel at ease. Khana, you were a friend, a mentor and a leader. Your legacy will live on in the many lives you've touched and the values you stood for will continue to guide us. Rest well my friend, you will never be forgotten. Thank you.emotive

ANC tribute by the Chair of Chairs

00:06:13Thank you, Councillor. African National Congress, is it the Chair of Chairs? Chair of Chairs.

00:06:48Thank you very much Speaker, ladies and gentlemen, to Councillor Amad's family, the Acting Mayor, Councillor Mabaso, fellow councillors, esteemed members of the municipality, friends and comrades, ladies and gentlemen.

00:07:17It is with deep respect and admiration that we remember Councillor Amad as a dedicated public servant whose unwavering commitment to Ward 82 and beyond left an indelible mark on the community he so dearly loved. A devoted Muslim and a man of principle, Councillor Amad's faith guided his every action, shaping his tireless dedication

00:07:49to uplifting those around him. A school governing body chair at Coronation High, he was a steadfast advocate for education, ensuring that young minds were nurtured with care, discipline and opportunity. His love for knowledge extended beyond the classroom, having once served as a librarian where he fostered a culture of learning and curiosity,

00:08:21but it was in public service that Councillor Amad truly shone, respected by colleagues across the board and within the council. He was a beacon of integrity and wisdom, commitment to his constituency. To the people of Ward 82, he was more than a councillor. He was a leader, a mentor, a friend and always ready to lend a helping hand,

00:08:50and to listen with compassion. His legacy will forever be felt in the hearts of those he served and inspired. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and bring comfort to his loved ones. To DA or Democratic Alliance,

00:09:17Sesothore re dudu. Tshedisehang. Go tlhokagalelwa ke mokhanselara yo a neng a ntse a ikemiseditse go berekela constituency ya gagwe, ga go e e e tswang gae.

00:09:33Condolences to yourselves and the family. I thank you.

ACDP tribute

00:09:45Thank you Chair of Chairs. We will now move to messages of condolences by other political parties. I will start with ACDP, Councillor Harris.

00:10:52Greetings Executive Mayor in absentia, Acting Mayor Mabaso, Madam Speaker, whips of different parties, councillors and especially to the Nonkumbi and Amad families. Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ our Lord. As we gather in this dark and heavy shadow of grief,emotive

00:11:24the ACDP extends its sincerest condolences to your families and to the ANC and DA caucuses. We say this not as a parroted statement, but with deep empathy with what you are enduring. Our very own president, President Kenneth Meshoe buried his daughter last week. So we have in part an understanding of the grief that you are enduring.claim

00:11:54Thank you for allowing your loved ones to dedicate a large portion of their lives to serving the citizens of Johannesburg. In the journey of life, many individuals leave an indelible mark on our souls. Gaddafi and Khana are such people. They were leaders whose wisdom, guidance, patience, insight and encouragement shaped the trajectories of many lives. Gaddafi was a robust politician

00:12:24with a wonderful sense of humour. He knew what he stood for and defended his views with passion. A few of us had the privilege of attending a short course hosted by the University of Johannesburg with him. We got insight into Gaddafi's analytical mind and his desire to see the city develop and thrive. Khana's public service started many years ago when he joined the Johannesburg Library Service.

00:12:54He was the original Google 1.0. And if they say Google is your friend then he remained a friend forever. Cause in those days we used to do research with encyclopedias and books and we read for pleasure and the librarian was the guiding light of the educational part of the community, and that was what Khana was. As a child of Western Township he had a front row seat

00:13:26to the plight of people trapped in the apartheid spatial development ghettos. His desire to see meaningful change found expression in his service to his neighbours, to the community and to the residents of Ward 82 specifically. I remember him as a friend, a pillar of our community, a leader, a mentor, a friend to many, always ready to offer wisdom, support and a helping hand.emotive

00:13:55And I want to echo what Councillor Sherman said,emotive

00:13:59AfrikaansEk sal min wat sy lag geken het.emotive

00:14:02As we bid farewell to our colleagues, let us remember the lessons they taught us, the value of service, the power of community and the importance of leaving the world a little better than we found it. Psalm 56:3 says, When I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In verse 8, David acknowledges that God knows his every step, collects every tear and records our trials. He knows your pain family.emotive

00:14:30Know that he will not give you burdens you cannot bear. May the Father, Son and Holy Spirit comfort and strengthen you during this time of grief. The ACDP salutes you in this difficult chapter of your lives. Thank you.emotive

ActionSA tribute

00:14:48Thank you Councillor Harris. Councillors, I know you want to elaborate more on your speech, but please let's stick to the allocated time which is three minutes per speaker. ActionSA, Councillor Lebatlang.

00:15:21Thank you very much Speaker. Let me greet the Executive Mayor in his absentia. Let me also greet the MMCs present and all fellow councillors. Through you Speaker, on behalf of ActionSA, we would love to send our deepest condolences to the Nonkumbi family

00:15:50and Councillor Amad's family. But Speaker today I'll be speaking on behalf of ActionSA caucus and my relationship with Councillor Nonkumbi. I worked very closely with Councillor Nonkumbi when I was deployed as a PR Councillor in Ward 59. He was not only my fellow colleague,claim

00:16:21but he was also a dear friend to me. Speaker, when I've worked closely with Councillor Nonkumbi from 2021 when he was elected as a ward councillor, I was also a candidate representing ActionSA in that particular ward. And one thing Speaker that I admired about Councillor Nonkumbi,

00:16:52that he was never personal. He was never a person who looked at your political party colours, but he always said to me, mtshana, we come from the same generation, let us serve our people. Speaker, Councillor Nonkumbi as a ward councillor of Ward 59 was a man who was very active

00:17:20and very much close to the people that he led. In Ward 59 you would know that Speaker we have so many challenges of by-law enforcement, issues of crime, and the dire need of service delivery. Every time I said to Councillor Nonkumbi that Councillor there's a certain issue that is happening in the ward can we please attend to it, he would normally respond

00:17:50and never hesitate. But I think Speaker in the memory of Councillor Nonkumbi, I would plead especially from the MMC of Public Safety, the MMC of Transport and the MMC of Economic Development. These were the dearly issues that were close to the heart of Councillor Nonkumbi. The MTN Rank upgrade

00:18:22and development. The maintenance and safety around Joubert Park, especially when it comes to by-law enforcement of JMPD officers. Speaker, Councillor Nonkumbi was also much active on the issues of making sure that what is happening at the Art Gallery

00:18:47Councillor please wrap up.

00:18:49what is happening in the Art Gallery shouldn't be something that is of a concern in his ward. Therefore I want to send my deepest condolences to the family and let us honour Councillor Nonkumbi. Thank you very much.

AIC tribute

00:19:05Thank you Councillor Lebatlang. AIC, Councillor Mhlongo.

Al Jama-ah tribute (Quran and recollections)

00:19:21Yeah. Thank you very much Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor Councillor Dada Morero in his absentia, the Acting Executive Mayor Councillor Mlungisi Mabaso, Chief Whip of Council Councillor Zungu, members of the Mayoral Committee, chairpersons of the Section 79 committees, fellow councillors,

00:19:52family of the late Councillor, the Chairperson of Section 79 Public Safety Committee, Councillor Nonkumbi, residents of the City of Johannesburg and members of the media present in the chamber, good morning to all of you. Madam Speaker, it was such a great shock and devastating news to lose such a great leader and a revolutionist and a brother and a comrade.emotive

00:20:21Comrade Nonkumbi's departure came as a big shock to all of us in this council chamber because he was not sick, he never fell sick. On behalf of the African Independent Congress, please accept our deepest condolences to the family of this great son of the soil. To his friends and to his political home the African National Congress during this time of grief and mourning. May his soul rest in peace. To the family,emotive

00:20:51let me quote the verse from the Bible, Lamentations chapter 3 verse 32, which reads as follows and I quote: Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. With those words to the family,emotive

00:21:09isiZulusithi dudu, akwehlanga lungehlanga.emotive

00:21:13Thank you very much Madam Speaker.emotive

00:21:19Thank you Councillor. Al Jama-ah, Councillor Amod.

00:22:04Uh greetings Speaker, the Acting Mayor, the Mayor in his absentia, Chief Whip and the leadership of the city. Um I would like to read a verse from the Quran that will comfort both families. The family of Nonkumbi and the family of Amod.

00:22:31arAllah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala in the Quran says: Tabarakalladzi biyadihil mulku wa huwa 'ala kulli syai'in qadir. Alladzi khalaqal mauta wal hayata liyabluwakum ayyukum ahsanu 'amala.

00:22:45So God Almighty in the Holy Quran says, glory be to him, the one who has created death and then he has given us life so that he can test those who are living, which one of us that will supersede in good actions. The Prophet peace be upon him says:

00:23:12arAs-sabru 'indas-sadmatil ula.

00:23:16Patience, it is when you are inflicted by a first strike. What does that mean? It means we need to endure patience in every difficult times. And if we are inflicted by harm, the first thing that we need to do is to endure patience and turn to the Lord.emotive

00:23:42I would like to believe that it would have been my family sitting here today or it could have been anyone of the councillors alive. However, God the Almighty has chosen these two families on the basis that God Almighty loves you. So during this difficult period, we turn to God, we kneel down, we get closer to God

00:24:12because it's a test and we believe that God wouldn't give us a burden that is heavier on our shoulder. An Arab poet says:

00:24:27arHayatuka hadith, fahassin hayataka liman rawa.

00:24:32Your life it's a story. You must beautify your story while you are living for the one who is going to narrate it when you are no more. So I know both councillors to be people who are very passionate to serve their communities. Both Councillor Nonkumbi and Councillor Amod. And I would like to expand on Councillor Nonkumbi's passage

00:25:01because I had a very close relationship with him in parting shot. Councillor Nonkumbi was very humorous. I remember at some time he was sitting with Councillor Masindi and he was advocating for persons with disability. They were talking about an item in JOD and Councillor Masindi, he's always playful.

00:25:30He lifted Councillor Nonkumbi's hand, the arm. So Councillor Nonkumbi couldn't see and all councillors started laughing in the chamber. And then he realizes that this guy here is naughty and then he reprimanded him.

00:25:44Councillor please wrap up.

00:25:46So that's how we remember our fellow councillors and I wanted to end with this because he's somebody that was joyful, somebody that was closer to me. I met him through activism and I thank you. And I would like to wish both families well and God be with you. Thank you so much.

FF Plus tribute

00:26:39FF Plus, Councillor

00:26:52Morning families of Ian and Khana, Acting Executive Mayor, Madam Speaker, colleagues and friends. Yes today we gather here under the heavy weight of loss to remember and honour Khana. Khana was a colleague, he was a leader and a friend whose presence was deeply felt in this chamber and beyond.

00:27:25Many of my colleagues here don't realize that Khana was more than just a councillor. He was a mentor for students, or learners as they now call, in our time it was students. He also constantly tried to advocate for the betterment of his community and he had a deep passion for justice and equality. And maybe this was because of his roots.

00:27:55Khana and I came from the days when he was a librarian. When I was doing my tertiary studies I used to go down to the Rec as we called it in the area where I stayed, pretending to study. Truth is I didn't go there to study. There were many cherries kan zien in that library. But Khana saw right through this and he immediately called me to order.

00:28:26Yeah right Khana, that didn't work. During our frequent smoke breaks here at council we debated and even argued. And I may not have agreed with his train of thought or his allegiances, but what Khana brought was a much-needed insight and integrity as well as a kindness that reminded me of the humanity behind my service.

00:28:56That was Khana. Beyond these walls, Boeta K was a friend, a mentor and a source of inspiration to so many. He had a remarkable ability to uplift those around him, to find common ground in moments of division and to lead with humility and grace. And especially

00:29:16Afrikaansmet daai ou man tot siens swagger

00:29:19that he used to have when he used to walk. I think he used to get it from all the Red Bulls that he used to drink. As we say goodbye,

00:29:30let us carry forward any lesson that Khana may have imparted to us. Colleagues, let us work harder, listen more intently and strive to build a city that we all dream of. A Johannesburg that thrives in unity, compassion and opportunity. I believe that this time spent here on earth is just the first leg of what we have to do to get to the final, the second stage. And all we have to do to get through the first leg

00:30:00is to love our brothers and sisters, as the big man upstairs loves us, to serve those around us with compassion, and to have faith, and no not the faith that George Michael had, the other faith, the faith to believe in the almighty. Kanha has finished the first leg, and he had all those attributes.

00:30:29He has qualified. Though his journey on this earth has come to an end, Kanha is in the second phase, the final. His memory will live on in the community he touched, his beloved Westbury, the young lives he changed and the young hearts he inspired.

00:30:47Councillor please wrap up.

00:30:48May his soul rest with his maker. Rest in peace dear brother, you will be greatly missed, but never will you be forgotten. Madam Speaker, thank you for granting me the opportunity to honor my chum. Thank you.

AIC tribute by MMC Arnolds

00:31:04Thank you Councillor Coutriers. AIC, MMC Arnolds.

00:31:33Madam Speaker, good morning to you. Good morning to the Executive Mayor Dada Morero in his absence, all members of the Mayoral Committee, fellow councillors, the Nonkumbi and Amod families. I know that we are gathered here today in a deep sorrow to honor and remember two dedicated public servants, Councillor Nonkumbi and Councillor Amod.

00:31:59And I would ask that this house give me the opportunity to speak about Councillor Amod. I'm wearing a pink scarf. I'm wearing a pink uh badge and I'm wearing a pink bangle. These are all symbols of cancer.

00:32:25And I want to say today that Councillor Amod has gone through a time like no one can believe. I've seen him at his high and I've seen him at his low. I've seen him at a time when I really thought he was just about to go, but he had the strength and he pulled through.emotive

00:32:53I did not believe that he was going to make it beyond September last year, but I also want to say that our time is not God's time. God's take takes us when he believes it's our time and he has taken him on the right time. And I would want to say to the family, you understand the pain he's gone through the chemo. You

00:33:23understand at times when he could not even be picked up from his bed. You understand when you had to get people in to come and bath him. I know it's it's difficult when you stare at death, but I do believe he's in a better place. We share in your grief. Your loved ones were not just yours, they were ours. He was a sterling councillor. I know that I could go into his ward

00:33:54and I could at times say, Councillor, I've been in your ward and I did one, two, three. And he said, why are you asking me? Just for you to tell me that you've did what you did, because what you came to do was deliver services that all our people need. These people don't only belong to me, but they belong to the city. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. May his soul

00:34:24and the soul of Councillor Nonkumbi rest in power. May the dedication inspire us to continue the work that they have started. I thank you Madam Speaker.

ATM tribute

00:34:39Thank you MMC. ATM, Councillor Magwentshu.

00:35:02Greetings to the Speaker of Council, Executive Mayor in absentia, Acting Mayor, Whip of Council, fellow councillors. The African Transformation Movement in Johannesburg wishes to convey a message of condolences to the Nonkumbi and Amod families, friends and all acquaintances on the ultimate passing of Councillor Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi and Councillor TJ Amod.

00:35:32The two councillors were in the business of serving the people and they served until they took their last breath. Their constituencies loved them and believed in them hence they voted for them to be their councillors. Of the two councillors I interacted I interacted more with Councillor Nonkumbi. Councillor Nonkumbi was full of life. His personality and character made him to attract and influence many people around him.

00:36:03As a party that advocates for tolerance in the political sphere, we always appreciated engagements with Councillor Nonkumbi. He was so passionate about serving the people. I'm sure MMC Kunene will recall how he pushed for the Noord Taxi Rank project and I believe that in his honor we should make it happen. Councillor Nonkumbi understood that for one to serve

00:36:33the people, one needs to capacitate oneself and was never lazy to learn. My very last encounter with him was at the University of Johannesburg and we had asked him to be the presenter on behalf of our group and he did that with excellence as he believed in excellence. We are going to miss his points of orders in this council. We are going to remember his humor. As we honor the two councillors, we pray and hope that during this period

00:37:03all ANC and DA members will be given more strength to support their families the families of these honorable councillors as they face the unfortunate passing of their loved ones. We express condolences to all those who have been affected by both Councillor Nonkumbi and Councillor Amod's passing, giving them assurance that their presence and participation in the South African political sphere changed the political discourse for the better,

00:37:34ensuring that the principles of constitution are held up to the last end. Their participation also ensured that the protection of democracy is recognized or realized in full, ensuring that South Africans choose the party that would advocate for their issues no matter the size. We thank Honorable Nonkumbi and Honorable Amod for their sacrifices. We thank their families for their lives

00:38:03and we thank their parties for their deployment in the City of Johannesburg. May you all be comforted during this time. I thank you.

COPE tribute

00:38:14Thank you Councillor. COPE, Councillor Mokome.

00:38:35Thank you Madam Speaker and good morning. And can I also ex acknowledge the Acting Executive Mayor Mlungisi Mabaso, the bereaved families, Amod family, Nonkumbi family, the MMCs, Chief Whip of Council, Chair of Chairs and Section 79 Chairpersons,

00:39:05the African National Congress, the Democratic Alliance and all political parties, the Acting City Manager and all the officials, members of the media, ladies and gentlemen. Madam Speaker, let me invoke the spirit of Martin Niemöller, a German pastor,

00:39:36poet and activist. They came first for the communists and I didn't speak up because I was not a communist. Then they came for the Jews and I didn't speak up because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the trade unions, I did not speak up.

00:40:06Then they came for the Catholics, I did not speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me, and by the time they ca and by that time no one was left to speak. But Madam Speaker, when they come for councillors Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi and

00:40:36Councillor TJ Amod, the Congress of the People, COPE, will be there to defend and speak up for them. Madam Speaker, we honor these two remarkable councillors whose life and contributions have left a lasting impact on all of us who had the privilege of knowing them.

00:41:05In moments like these, we reflect not only the deeds of the departed, but on the values that guided their every action. In the face of challenges, they faced they showed resilience and patience, and always striving to re remain humble

00:41:35and grateful for the blessings they had. They approached life with a deep sense of faith whilst also recognizing the importance of hard work and effort in everything they did. May their memory continue to inspire us and may we always honor them by living in a way that reflects

00:42:06the best of our faith. I thank you.

EFF tribute by MMC Tshwaku

00:42:13Thank you Councillor. EFF, MMC Tshwaku.

00:42:39Greetings to the Speaker, Executive Mayor in his absence, members of the Mayoral Committee, uh good morning to the EFF caucus party leaders, Whippage, Secretary Raseruthe, caucus of the EFF and all the caucus of the ANC led by Councillor Zungu and also all the councillors that are here, most importantly to the guests that are here and the family of uh Councillor Amod and also to the family of u-Ian uNonkumbi.

00:43:11isiZuluEhm sisi Thuli Silimela.

00:43:14Uh I want to direct this to be more personal. Because

00:43:18isiZulusingakhuluma sithetheemotive

00:43:20everything, speeches and quotes, but nothing is going to fill this void and the pain that you have. As councillors we will miss both the councillors that actually have passed on. We will miss uCouncillor Nonkumbi, his vibrancy, what a soul. We were shatteredemotive

00:43:38isiZuluukuva ukuthiemotive

00:43:41uh he was no more during the festive season just before Christmas. It was a very black one because that man I knew him very well. So, I know how you actually loved him. Uh he was your friend sisi Thuli and your husband. Every timeemotive

00:44:01isiXhosasithetha naye,emotive

00:44:02every time he will call me that guy, he will tell about hey uh MMCemotive

00:44:06isiZuluuyamazi uThuli wena, umfazi wami wena.emotive

00:44:09So so so he actually loved you a lot and I could feel the pain what what actually happened, you know, and how you are feeling. It was same by the way with Councillor Khumalo there, who really welcomed me in council from the other poli he was from any other political party. He'd actually put their political differences aside, even though he loved his uh his political party quite well, ANC, and he loved his SANCO. Even anywhere in the programs that we had, he will rock up with a SANCO. He'd say, my man, you can't address aemotive

00:44:43a program like thisemotive

00:44:44isiXhosautata engekho.emotive

00:44:46Uh yey wena, you want me to be an anarchist, I'm going to address here. Then I will give it to him. Um he embraced the left politics and that I subscribe to. Maybe that's why we actually clicked because me and him we actually clicked. They were present in the launch of the Operation Manje Namhlanje when we first entered even in Casa Mia and the taxi rank. In the Public Safety Department he gave us an unconditional support. You would think that this guy is an MMC, uh and also maybe there's something that he's crossing over to join the EFF,emotive

00:45:20but he loved his political party, but it's just that he wanted a service delivery, and he knew the struggles that we are going through in the department. So he never had any of that. Even though we were under attack, but uNonkumbiemotive

00:45:32isiXhosaazophakama athi bayeke lapha kumi,emotive

00:45:35because I was working with him very close, me and him we had a very tight bond. Um we were we were even bragging ukuthi it's gonna be me and him in the podium when we inaugurate uh the the the Chief of Police after a very long time. We were talking about even before he left, I was talking to him on the 22nd, 23rd, and after the following day that he passed on. He was bragging, athi hey my man I'm gonna be a shadow MMC here, I must speak there. So I'm gonna miss this anarchist. I'm going to miss this disciplined left of the this force of the left and the Asijiki Brigade.emotive

00:46:10Our relationship by the way it went beyond the party the political lines. He was a very colorful individual.emotive

00:46:17MMC please wrap up.emotive

00:46:18Uh I mean there was exchanges between him and noCouncillor uMaila. Uh we can talk all the quotes and make uh no um, you know, nothing is gonna make sense now wena sisi Thuli, but I know that he left you with the young ones. We've been talking together and exchanging, you know, uh talking and all of that, but you must know that you are not alone and all those things. So restemotive

00:46:41isiXhosaJola, Qebenga, Mziwelanga, Somahwahwa, Ngwanya, Somadolo, Zwelibanzi, phumla xhego ugqatso lwakho ulufezile.emotive

00:46:52I thank you.emotive

DA tribute by Councillor Maila

00:46:56Thank you MMC. DA, Councillor Maila.

00:47:32Madam Speaker, the bereaved Nonkumbi and Amod families in the totality of their genealogy, honorable members of council, the people of Johannesburg, greetings and salutations. One of the most complicated relationships in the history of humanity

00:48:07is the relationship between man and death. Many writers and scholarly authors around the world, religious or academic, past or present, have used so many words in the English lexicon in an attempt to help us understand death and why it remains so painful

00:48:38each time it visits us, the frequency of its visits notwithstanding. Among all these esteemed writers, I have found the teachings of Janne Teller, a Danish writer of Austro-German descent, particularly helpful. Janne Teller tells us that from the moment we are born,

00:49:11we begin to die. She explains that everything begins only to end. In other words, unless there is a beginning, there can never be an ending. She also tells us that whenever death visits us, the hearts become heavy and we cry. And she says we cry because

00:49:43we know what we have lost and because we are not yet able to put into words what it is we had gained at birth. This explains why we all feel what we feel about Mzoxolo's sudden departure on Christmas day that has left us feeling so incredibly defeated. In the short period of time that I've known Mzoxolo, I found him to be someone with a remarkable ability

00:50:20to become many things to many different people. He embodied multiple characters in one. He lived with a disability, but he was not disabled. He could be sad and still give you an infectious laughter. He could be hurtful and still be playful with you. He could be intimidating and still

00:50:51defend you. He could be provocative and still act as though he didn't start the fight. He could be threatening and still be harmless to those he threatened. He could be formal and still be informal. He could wear shorts and still walk tall.

00:51:16Please wrap up Councillor.

00:51:17When he replaced me as Chairperson of the Public Safety Committee, he came in cold because he was not a member of the committee before his election as chairperson. One could tell that he was expecting me to be hostile towards him, because that's what many people in our field of work do when they lose these temporary positions. So I immediately offered to assist and advise him in the exercise of his powers and the performance of his duties and functions.

00:51:54But as soon as he knew how to start a committee meeting, he began to insult me. That's Mzoxolo for you. We will miss him in the Public Safety Committee because there can only be one Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi. I will miss his playful character and his gentle soul. To all of us who have shared moments with Mzoxolo,

00:52:27let's draw our collective solace from the knowledge that from the moment we are born, we begin to die. Fare thee well Mzoxolo, till we meet again on the other side. Ndlelanhle. I thank you.

IFP tribute (largely in isiZulu)

00:52:48Thank you Councillor. IFP, Councillor Nyembe.

00:53:44isiZuluHheyi makuzindlovu kushintshwa zonke izinto.

00:53:50Thank you Speaker. Greetings to our Acting Mayor, Councillor Mabaso, colleagues, members of Mayoral Committee. To the Amod family, the IFP send the deepest condolences.

00:54:19isiZuluKhansela Nyembe.

00:54:20Yes.

00:54:21isiZuluMawungasondela nje ku-mic siya sinenkinga ngokuzwa my councillor.

00:54:25isiZuluKushuthi imfishane. Mhm kulungile.

00:54:33Thank you Speaker. The IFP send the deepest condolences for the loss of our colleague. It's never easy to go through such a tough time. And I want to I want you to know that our caucus sympathies with your loss and you are in our prayers.

00:55:01isiZuluBese ngiza emndenini wakwaNonkumbi namahlakani kaTambo. Silahlekelwe kakhulu. Wangethusa ke mina ngoba yindoda ebesixhumana nayo kakhulu uKhansela uNonkumbi. Angimazanga isikhathi eside ngimaze nje isikhathi esincane

00:55:31isiZulukodwa uma ngithi umngani wami wonke umuntu uzo-understand ngoba iyona-language ebeyijwayele ukuyisebenzisa kunoma ubani. Mayefika kuwe uthi, "Mngani wami." Nendlela ebeyiyo. Ngiyacela ukuthi ngiduduze ke emndenini wakwaNonkumbi. Ngiyacabanga ukuthi indlela ebeyiyona nendlela esingayo, nina emndenini kuzoba nzima ukumkhohlwa,

00:56:05isiZulungoba bekuwumuntu wamahlaya. Lomuntu mayekhuluma into ayikhulumayo wena ungahambisani naye ungaze umbone engathi uyabheda. Kodwa ubuthi mawuyilalela ufuna ukulalela i-content yento ayishoyo ubuze ukuthi lento ayikhulumayo iyiyo. Futhi ngiyacabanga nje ukuthi kusazofanele niyihlele kahle Mthungwa,

00:56:37isiZuluukuthi ubani osezongena esiculela la, ngoba ubewazi kahle ukuthi maniphumile nicele i-caucus phandle, nabuya nicula, ngiyazi ukuthi nguye impela oni-lead-ayo ngeculo futhi lento eniyibuyelayo ujabulile uyazi ukuthi izokwenzeka. Makungahambanga ngendlela kade niku-caucus, ubungamboni ebuya eqala, ubebuya eseyihudula ecashe ubone ukuthi hhayi, bese ngibona ngaye ukuthi hhayi kushuthi kukhona into engahambi kahle.emotive

00:57:10isiZuluNgiyazi ukuthi nizomkhumbula kakhulu. Indoda ke ebithanda izingane zayo nomakoti. Usibari kithi thina esibuya eKZN. Ngike ngahamba naye isikhathi esiningi efelwe imoto, ubenokungifonela ethi angizomthathela izimpahla ngimuse lapho efuna ukuya khona. Ethi ke elinye ilanga, "Eyi, mngani wami Nyembe, eyi ngiphuze kakhulu kulezi zinsuku ebusuku.emotive

00:57:45isiZuluUyabona ke namhlanje angizukhuza ngiya endlini straight. Yeyi umakoti ngeke, sizoze siqabane impela naye phela ngendlela engenza ngakhona. And nezingane zami phela ngiyathethiswa manje angisakhoni nokuzibona kahle, ngoba ngibuyela ngesikhathi sami." Umuntu obewazisa kakhulu umndeni wakhe, especially laba abebehlala nabo eduzane. Ngiyafisa ke ukuthi ngiduduze ke, uNkulunkulu anibophe amanxeba, bese nivakashela ibhayibheli lapha kuMshumayeli 10 verse four. Ngiyathokoza.emotive

PA tribute

00:58:28Thank you Councillor. PA, Councillor Pitso.

00:58:50Greetings Madam Speaker, Executive Mayor in his absentia, Acting Mayor in his presence, City Manager, the Joburg nine councillors under the effective leadership of MMC Kenny Kunene, fellow councillors, guests, the families and friends of Councillor Amod and Councillor Nonkumbi. Though I didn't have the privilege of knowing the two councillors in person, I heard it through the grapevine from the Joburg nine city councillors that

00:59:21the two councillors had immense dedication and service delivery for the citizens of Joburg. And this morning on behalf of the Patriotic Alliance, I would love to come in the spirit of Ubuntu to offer words of comfort and pay respects to the families. Um and to say that before we are all politicians,

00:59:52we are all human beings in this place. To the families, may you find peace and from theemotive

01:00:00the love of family, friends, and communities that stand with you in this time of grief. May the cherished memories uh bring you strength, comfort, and may you find strength in knowing that the two councilors were very much appreciated. Courtesy of my grapevine, Councilor Nonkumbi was an interesting character

01:00:29full of energy and life. He was like the salt of the council with his many random points of orders, from his fashion sense and many other things. To Councilor Amod, who was a humble man who would take time to check on you and ask you how are you doing? He loved God and he was a very dedicated public servant. With those few words, I'd love to say to the family that the contributions of the two councilors

01:01:00will not be forgotten, and their legacies will live on forever through their dedication and legacy, positive impact which they've given us while they were still here alive on earth with us. And may the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts, give you peace and comfort during this season. And on the behalf of the Patriotic Alliance Joburg Metro Councilors and leadership,

01:01:32our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and political leadership. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Al Jama-ah tribute by Councillor Karolia

01:01:41Thank you, Councilor Pitso. Al Jama-ah, Councilor Karolia.

01:02:19arAssalamu alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

01:02:23Peace and blessings be upon all. I'd like to... Sorry. My condolences go out to the bereaved family, Nonkumbi family

01:02:42Councilor, please move closer to the mic.

01:02:48The honorable deputy mayor, uh fellow councilors, esteemed members of the DA caucus, esteemed members of the ANC caucus, and the beloved family of CK Amod and councilor uh Nonkumbi. I just want to pass a message of condolence to you

01:03:13I'll quote a message of from the Quran:

01:03:15arInna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un.

01:03:17Unto him do we belong and unto him we surely to return. So I had a privilege to meet Councilor Nonkumbi while in council, and uh his memories are going to stay I'll remember his memories for the rest of my life. He was a very fondful man. He was very lovable. He was very uh jolly, and that's how I'll remember him. Uh and the message to

01:03:45Councilor Amod, obviously I never had the opportunity to meet him, but I heard a lot about him. And it's with great sadness that we, as the Al Jama-ah caucus of Johannesburg, enter our deepest condolences to the passing of Councilor Amod and to the councilor uh Nonkumbi. Losing a councilor is always profound loss, as these individuals serve as the

01:04:15vital bridge between community and the government structures, aspirations and concerns of the people they serve. When a ward councilor is no longer with us, it creates a void that's felt deeply by the community. Councilor Amod was a person of integrity, commitment, selflessness, and dedication. His life is serving humanity and performing his duties with the utmost sincerity and care. His tireless efforts to the community, always striving to create a better environment for those

01:04:48he represented, and his legacy will continue to inspire. In the time of sorrow, we extend our heartfelt prayers to his family. May Allah grant them patience, strength, peace. In this difficult time, we also pray that the DA caucus and the residents of Ward 82, that Allah's mercy and guidance may be with them as they mourn the loss of a leader who truly served the people of a dedication and love. May Allah grant Councilor

01:05:19Amod and Councilor Nonkumbi eternal peace and a place in among the pious and the righteousness. And just for food for thought, we have lost two councilors in a very short period of time. Uh I think we should consider as humanitarians, we should be humble to one another, and let's follow the pattern that these two councilors have left a legacy behind them. Thank you.

UIM tribute

01:05:49Thank you, councilor. UIM, Councilor Abdool.

01:06:39Good morning, everyone. Good morning to our speaker, our councilors in the house, our guests in the gallery, and a special greeting to the Nonkumbi and Amod family. Our hearts and our deepest condolences goes out to you from the United Independent Movement, and I would just like to say the following: that I did not meet um Councilor Amod on many occasions,

01:07:08but the few times that I did meet him, I was pleasantly, not surprised, but I had a pleasant engagement with him because he was always gentle, respectful, and I knew that this is a man of substance, and I know he will be dearly missed by you as the family. Thank you for availing him for service for the community and also here in council. I can elaborate

01:07:38a little bit more regarding Councilor Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi. That's how he pronounced his name to me when he described his name when we were at this UJ workshop. He said to me I must pronounce his name parfaitement, Mzoxolo. And I used to tease him about his first name. I said to him, "You know who you were named after." And he said to me, "You know what? I will changeclaim

01:08:08the trajectory of that name." One of the things that I will always remember was his enthusiasm, his sense of humor, his humility, and his friendliness. The first engagement that I had with uh Councilor Nonkumbi is here in council. I was standing on that side and he was standing on that side, and he was telling me, "What do you know?" when I was nominated to become a chairperson. And when we were engagedclaim

01:08:38at the UJ, he said to me, "Yeah, you know something. You know at least something-nyana. However, you must go and study." He encouraged me to enroll at UJ and study, and the plan was for him also to study this year. And the one thing that really irritated me, the people that were with us, I remember he always said his biggest challenge is JMPD, and this year, 2025,

01:09:08he's going to fix JMPD. And, of course, we were shocked when we heard that he's no more. So many plans. He had a life larger than life, and he had an impact on every one of us in this chamber. Both councilors had a passion for their communities. Both councilors had a passion for public service, and they will be dearly missed. And I know the family,

01:09:38we carry on with our lives, we say words, but you carry on and you will miss your family members much more deeper, sincerely, and it will not be easy. May God's blessings, may God's comfort be with you. And we will continue to live the legacy and dedication and commitment in this council on behalf of our fallen public servants. God bless you.

Freedom Front Plus tribute

01:10:11Thank you, councilor. Freedom Front Plus, Councilor Boer.

01:10:28Good morning, Madam Speaker, um acting mayor, fellow councilors. Yet again, we are this morning together in a memorial service, and this time even for two councilors that has passed away. And we want to express our sincere condolences to the Amod and the Nonkumbi family for their losses, and we wish them comfort in this time

01:10:58of hardship. Madam Speaker, as being the last speaker today, I thought it was appropriate to hear what the Lord says in his word in these difficult times. We've heard many words spoken about our two beloved councilors that passed away, and at the end of the day, it is not decisive what we say, but it is decisive what the Lord says. And the Lord Jesus told us in

01:11:28Gospel of Luke 16:2. He told us a parable about an unjust manager. And in this parable, the Lord says, "Give account of your management because you will no longer be a manager." And these words, Madam Speaker and dear family, applies to all of us. We all have to give account of what we have done on earth, even on a daily basis. After every day, we have to account for what we did.

01:11:58Especially when we die, we have to appear for the justice seat of God to give account of what we've done in our lives, because God created us to love him, to serve him, to glorify him, and also to love our neighbors. And especially, and even more so, this applies to us, councilors, because we read in the scripture as well that Paul tells us in Romans 13 that there is no power but of God, and that every power

01:12:28that there is is coming from God. And we, as public servants, has got a double responsibility: not only to give account of what we did in our personal lives, but more so to give account what we did in our servant life, because we are not elected in the first place by the residents of our city. We are not put in power by our political parties. No, we are appointed here by God himself to act on his behalf, to

01:12:58rule our city according the will of God. And what is the will of God for us? To follow him in his Ten Commandments, to serve him as being appointed by him. And for that, we will have to give account. And the Lord will ask us as well, "Give account of what you have done in council, in the city. How did you serve the residents? How did you fulfill my will on earth?" And I want to close off, and I think it's appropriate, being the last speaker,

01:13:28that we all ask ourselves, "Can I give account of every day that I served in council? Can I give account before the Lord of what I've done with my life? Did I glorify the Lord, or did I look after my own?" Thank you very much.

ANC tribute by Councillor Modupi

01:13:46Thank you, councilor. ANC, Councilor Modupi.

01:15:11Uh long live! Long live the spirit of Ian Mzoxolo, long live! Uh I want to first start by apologizing uh for coming at this time. I was supposed to be the first one,

01:15:39but for those who know, I should be forgiven. This is how things unfolded. This is the spirit of Comrade Ian Nonkumbi leading me today. Most of the time, we will be rebuked. When we go to lunch, we will engage in politics and forget that we were in lunch.

01:16:09When we come back, we will find that the work of council is continuing. It is the spirit of Comrade Ian Nonkumbi that has led me today, and I want to be forgiven. I know some may say, "You're out of order," but that is what we were told together with Comrade Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi.

01:16:40So today I want to speak about this force of mine, Comrade Ian Mzoxolo Nonkumbi. First, let me uh follow the protocols, Madam Speaker. Allow me to greet the mayor of Johannesburg in absentia. Allow me to greet

01:17:10the Chair of Chairs, Chief Whip, and the acting manager of the City of Johannesburg, the caucus of the ANC, the biggest organization in South Africa and the oldest liberation movement that is still ruling in Africa. Allow me to also

01:17:39extend my greetings to all caucuses in this council. Madam Speaker, it is always never an easy task to give words of comfort to the bereaved. I know that deep in their hearts, the bereaved wish that their loved ones could rise back to life.

01:18:10So it is true of the family of Comrade Ian Nonkumbi, his acquaintances, his associates. We all wish that he could come and appear by that door. His kids may still be thinking that he's going to come back. His wife, Nokuthula,

01:18:42may also find herself in a state of cognitive dissonance, believing that he will appear, but experience telling her that once departed, you will never come back. However, comrades and compatriots, please allow me not to give the words of condolences

01:19:12today. I have come here to give the testimony about the life of Comrade Mzoxolo Nonkumbi. Comrade Mzoxolo Nonkumbi and I, together with some of our generation, met in the trenches of war in a battle for social transformation. We were young.

01:19:43Uh I want to put this speech aside, because uh I'm being interrupted by the force. Yes, Madam.

01:19:48Councilor Modupi. Councilor

01:19:53SesothoHa ke batle ho u khaola,

01:19:54especially during this sensitive time,

01:19:57Sesothomara ke kopa o etse e be khutsoane. Ho utloile,

01:20:01uh Madam Speaker. But please do allow me to speak of Comrade Nonkumbi. We met Comrade Nonkumbi during difficult times in the trenches of war, in the battlefield for social transformation. He belonged to our generation, and we called ourselves Asijiki Defense Force. Asijiki Defense Force, we believed that

01:20:31ours was to attain economic freedom in our lifetime. And for that, he fought tooth and nail. I remember when we were delegates in Mangaung, 2012, we sat down and said, "How are we going to make sure that economic freedom in our lifetime is realized?" We said we must be the progressive agents of the state in order to make sure that

01:21:01economic freedom in our lifetime is realized. And we planned. 2016, when there was a local government elections, we took a strategic retreat. 2021, we said,

01:21:18isiZulu"Azilime ziye etsheni."

01:21:20We fell on top of the people. We said we want to liberate our people. We became the councilors. Comrade Ian Nonkumbi was a vibrant leader.

01:21:31He wanted to make sure that people always are happy wherever he is. He was this uniting force. So today, as we are remembering his life, I don't want us to mourn. I want us remember his life through the vibrancy that he has. We must make sure that when we come out here, particularly ANC, we must make sure

01:22:01that we are going to work in that branch and make sure that his branch will win with two-third majority. We must make him proud by saying, "Comrade Nonkumbi, we have secured victory again in your branch." We will be working together with his branch, and I want to say, be prepared. We will be coming to assist you there. With these words, I want to extend my

01:22:32condolences uh to the branch also, and to the family, and say, uh Nokuthula, we are with you in these hard times. We'll forever be with you.

01:22:47isiZuluEh ngalawo magama ngifuna ukuthi akwehlanga lungehlanga.

01:22:52Thank you very much.

Close of tributes and removal of names ritual

01:22:58Councilors, I know there are some councilors who wanted to also share words, but because of time, I will have to cut you out. So please, we'll continue with our next item on our agenda. And thank you to all the political parties and their messages of condolences to the bereaved families. May I again ask for a moment of silence.

01:23:45We all may take our seats. On the 22nd of August 2016, the late Councilor Mahomed Shahrukh Khan Jeffrey Amod was inaugurated to serve in this council. After he was sworn in, he was allocated that seat, and his name and photo

01:24:17were displayed digitally at all times he attended council meetings. He was a ward councilor of Ward 82 in Region B. On the 19th of January 2025, Councilor Amod passed and was buried the same day in line with the Islamic religion. On the 5th of November 2021, the late Councilor Ian

01:24:48Mzoxolo Nonkumbi was inaugurated to serve in this council. After he was sworn in, that seat was allocated to him, and his name and photo were displayed digitally at all times he attended council meetings. He was a ward councilor of Ward 59, Region F1, and was also the chairperson of the Section 79 Oversight Committee for Public Safety. On the 25th December

01:25:212024, Councilor Nonkumbi passed and was buried on the 4th of January 2025 at Molteno in the Eastern Cape. Today, the council flag with the coat of arms is placed on each of their seats, and they're both being represented by the pillar of candles and flowers, symbolizing that they will never attend council meetings. We have

01:25:51honored them, and tributes have been made by all different political parties that are represented in council. I would now like to ask the official assigned to proceed and get ready to blow the candle, symbolizing that both councilors will no longer be part of us in this chamber. This special council meeting is also being held to officially

01:26:25remove their names in this chamber, a protocol ritual known as

01:26:30isiZuluukusula igama.

01:26:32Sad as it is for all of us, this is the reality we have to accept.

01:27:26isiZulu[inaudible] alala nala.

Comments from the Nonkumbi family

01:33:52Thank you, councillors. We proceed with comments by the family representatives. From the Nonkumbi family, I'd like to call Mr. Simphiwe Hlahla.

01:34:24Uh thank you, thank you very much. Madam Speaker, mayor from the oldest, gallant movement in the continent, ANC, whippery, councillors, and fellow grieving family of both families,

01:34:50greetings to you all. In Ian, we have lost a family pillar, unifier, and a very [inaudible] devoted family man whom we freely shared with the public for we actually respected his calling to serve people.

01:35:19Zoxolo was a man, very strong man toward us. He's survived by his family and his wife, Thuli, and seven children. One of whom is just a month old and the other one is at tertiary level.

01:35:45His naming of his children itself would bear testimony to us as the family that indeed revolution was in his veins. It became an oxygen. Some of his kids are named after revolutionaries of this continent.

01:36:11Amongst them there's Gaddafi and there's Kabila. One of the greatest legacies Ian leaves behind, of course, is the legacy to live with and within his people.

01:36:38And when he actually left us, when God called him, he was in Sebokeng. Of course, as a family, we knew that through his vision, his plans, and his work within his organization that one day we will gather here

01:37:01to install, witness, and celebrate him as the MMC. We are saying one day we hoped that will happen. But of course, we omitted God's plans, for God planned otherwise for the 25th of December 2024.

01:37:26I must indicate, Madam Speaker, that as the family we've always, of course as we've said, we've known that we'll gather here. As Ian's family, we wish to heartily convey our appreciation at the collective of your noble gesture and support from the day that a dark cloud actually befell us as family to the preparations

01:37:53for the burial of our brother, of our uncle, of our brother. You've shown us and the Johannesburg communities that indeed the City of Gold has leadership in you as the collective.

01:38:15Your presence within our family during our bereavement and tributes collectively really has actually comforted us as the family. Before we actually conclude, we as the family we had the most

01:38:37charitable moments with uh uMzoxolo. I would recall because Mzoxolo was uh charismatic as he was, he was this character uh that was always free spirited and full of joy. I could recall I was speaking to Ward 56 Councillor here, Michael Crichton. Uh in November, uh

01:39:03as a as a as a brother of course, I live somewhere in the south of Johannesburg in Ward 56, a councillor of which is Michael. Now, at some stage in 2021, uh we contested, both myself and uh Councillor Michael, we contested space. Now,

01:39:27in November last year, we we had a program there, stakeholders. We then called uh Ian to say to Mzoxolo, Mzoxolo you are leading that thing of public safety and we have problems here uh in Johannesburg South. Can you please organize us uh that MMC from EFF, Mgcini Tshwaku?

01:39:50Ian then responded by saying, Hayi mtshana,

01:39:54isiZuluawume kancane,

01:39:55who is family between us and that man? I said, But we are family. He said, Then, who am I to you? I said, Hayi mtshana, I can't remember, man. We are together, all I know is that we are together. Then he says, But mtshana, I'm leadership, I cannot profile that man before I actually profile myself. Now, I am coming myself. Now, he comes, there are all stakeholders

01:40:19there, uh there's JMPD, there's SAPS, uh Faraday Taxi Association, and other political parties, and all political parties, by the way. Then now, I give him the platform, the first thing that he says, he looks at Michael, the councillor, he looks at me, he then says, Michael, you moered this man thoroughly in 2021, you moered him properly, since you are a councillor today, make sure that he is always humbled.

01:40:45In those words, uh the collective, may indeed the grace of the Lord God bless your endeavors as City of Johannesburg leadership for the successful revolutionary transformation of our country's economic hub, City of Johannesburg. We thank you.

Comments from the Amod family

01:41:10I would like to call representative from the Amod family, Ms. Somaya Steenkamp.

01:41:26Confucius says, Everything starts with the people, couples. He taught us happy couples make happy children. Happy children make happy families, happy families make happy communities, and happy communities make happy cities. So, it stands to reason that happy cities

01:41:49make happy counties, and happy counties make happy states. Happy states, happy nations. And we all know that if we had happy nations, there's got to be a better world. Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. These are the words taken from one of my dad's favorite songs by The Main Ingredient. My dad loved music and he passed his good taste onto his children.

01:42:16But not only did he love the song, he started many of his public speeches with this quote, and it's a motto he lived by. Born in 1959 in Western Native Township, he was always meant to lead. Before joining the DA, he served his time as a dedicated librarian. He served his time with vigor.

01:42:41Today the residents of Bosmont tell stories of how he was the best and most popular librarian. He wasn't only a dad to his four daughters, but also a father to the school children of the Bosmont community. He was a tough and strict man, but also wise as he guided many youngsters through the journey of teenagehood.

01:43:09He encouraged them to use their minds to gain knowledge and to go on and further their education. He was also their confidant as he helped them navigate through their young years, always there to lend an ear and to offer advice. This saw him venture into different schools where he served on governing bodies and tried to make our education system better in our communities because he believed

01:43:37wholeheartedly that the children are the future. He strived to make a difference by speaking his mind, speaking out against injustices, never mincing his words. He had a saying while I was growing up, he would joke and say in Afrikaans slang,

01:43:54AfrikaansEk is Gatiep, ek spuug by die toon.

01:43:58I never quite knew what he meant until later in life. But I saw that he was respected wherever he went and commanded any room or stage he walked onto. Not only was he a sharp dresser, but a man with a sharp mind and a sharp tongue. He taught us, his daughters, to always hold our heads high,

01:44:23to work hard at whatever we attempt, and to always do things with respect, and most importantly, to never forget where we come from, because it's family and community that mold you. We are honored to have shared a man of his caliber with so many who speak good things of him. And it's truly sad that illness came and robbed us of more time with him,

01:44:51to build more memories and to witness his infectious humor. But they say God chooses his best soldiers, so who are we to question? In closing, I'd like to say that dad, from all your children, if I never see the top of a mountain, if I never set one foot in the sea, I promise you I'll love you forever, you'll always be the biggest part of me.

01:45:18If I could get another chance, another walk, another dance with him, I'd play a song that would never, ever end. How I'd love, love, love to dance with my father again. Thank you.

Announcements and adjournment for break

01:45:42Uh we now move to announcements and uh closure.

01:45:47Condolences once again to the Nonkumbi and the Amod family. May you find strength during this difficult time. May you go to God, may God comfort you. You'll be accommodated at the Johannesburg Theatre with Ausi Shirley. Councillors, we are behind time with council business. Can we give you 10 minutes

01:46:10for a leg stretch so that our different caucuses can go sign the register outside for the ordinary council sitting. It's 11:05, can we come back at 11:15. Thank you.

01:46:33Councillors, can we wait for the family to leave first.