Thursday, 29 May 2025 · 8 h 6 min · 1 video · 2021–2026 council
Budget Speech
AI draft.Written by AI from the livestream and not yet checked by a person. Use the timestamps to check anything before you quote it.
- Governance and appointments
- Budget and finances
- Services, housing and development
- Other business (no topic tag)
- Procedure: roll call, apologies, breaks
- Decision (11)
- ◯Quorum count (1)
- ‖Adjourned or paused (3)
Chapters, decisions and procedure are AI drafts from the livestream; topic tags are AI judgments (a chapter with several shows its strongest). Services, housing and development covers water, electricity, roads, housing, waste, safety, health, planning and community facilities.
Summary
Council approved the 2025/26-2027/28 medium-term budget (Item 3, with 3A to 3F) by 144 votes to 104, with no abstentions, after a division by show of hands; the DA and FF Plus recorded dissent. 06:55:47 07:07:31 The special adjustment of the 2024/25 operating and capital budgets after the national grant review passed 144 to 101, again with DA and FF Plus dissent noted. 07:46:27 07:54:51
The 2025/26 IDP review and business plans were agreed without a formal count, and the 2025-26 Institutional SDBIP was noted, with DA dissent and FF Plus concern recorded. 05:13:31 05:55:06
In the budget debate ActionSA, the FF+ and the ACDP rejected the budget, several speakers criticised the R200 prepaid electricity surcharge, and the DA presented an alternative budget with a 0% property rates increase. 00:36:04 00:54:22 01:06:32 01:19:49 01:27:49 The MMC for Finance defended the surcharge as in line with NERSA requirements, said the indigent policy is being reviewed, and explained the R3.5 billion borrowing. 02:48:15
The Executive Mayor handed out R10 notes to illustrate budgeting choices; Cllr Christians later criticised this, and Chairperson Raphadu said his bribery allegation must be withdrawn or substantiated. 02:59:43 04:47:47
The sitting began with a pause over quorum concerns so councillors could sign the register, before the Speaker reported 219 councillors present. 00:10:15 00:31:40 The Speaker adjourned the meeting and announced the next ordinary council meeting for 25 and 26 June 2025. 07:54:51
AI draft from the record of this sitting (Claude Opus 5.5), checked against the chapters; every sentence links to the moment. Report an error
This week in council: Council approves 2025/26 medium-term budget, 144 for and 104 against
In brief
- 11 decisions: 6 approved, 5 noted or other.
- 1 question to the executive: 1 not answered (AI-judged).
- 19 promises on record, including: ActionSA will provide strict oversight of the city rejuvenation allocation that follows its motion.
- 1 quorum count.
- 26 apologies read out. Warned or stopped by the chair: 23; Sound or equipment problem: 5.
Chapters
61What was discussed, in order. Click a time to watch.
- 00:10:15
Opening, quorum concern and adjournment for register
The Secretary to Council notified the meeting as the continuation of the 30th Ordinary Meeting, convened to debate the budget speech. The Speaker was worried about the quorum and adjourned for about 15 minutes so councillors could sign the register. Proceedings were due to resume at 12:20.
Report an error - 00:22:15
Singing in the chamber while waiting
While the chamber waited, councillors sang and chanted for roughly nine minutes, mostly in isiZulu. The Speaker called members to settle down at 12:25.
Report an error - 00:31:40
Resumption, protocol, quorum and apologies
The Speaker resumed the sitting and welcomed attendees. She reported that 219 councillors were present, which formed a quorum. Parties then gave apologies and late arrivals, including Cllr Mpolobosho for urgent private business and an ill-health absence for MMC Makhafola. The apologies were noted.
Avant-SmithMogapiEFFMposulaActionSASimonsePA
Report an error - 00:36:04
Budget debate: ActionSA (Modukanene) rejects the budget
Cllr Modukanene called the budget morally bankrupt. She criticised the R200 prepaid electricity surcharge, the stalled insourcing, R3.5 billion in new borrowing and the wage bill. She acknowledged funding for the Kya Sands landfill, fire engines and city rejuvenation, and raised the cut to the Speaker's office budget. The Speaker asked councillors to settle down during her speech. ActionSA voted against the budget.
Also discussed: EFF's Cllr Khonkhobe on the budget (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 00:47:30
Budget debate: IFP (Makhuba) supports the budget
Cllr Makhuba welcomed the R89.4 billion budget and the R5.6 billion for water and R4.6 billion for electricity infrastructure. She warned about wasteful spending and the weak alignment with intergovernmental programmes such as TISH, and said human settlements funding is ring-fenced for ten projects. The IFP supports the budget.
Report an error - 00:53:29
Concern over absent senior management
Cllr Maila said no senior managers, including the Acting City Manager and Group CFO, were in the house to hear the debate. The Speaker noted the concern and said the executive had heard it.
Report an error - 00:54:22
Budget debate: GOOD (Cook) criticises the budget
Cllr Cook called the speech an angry campaign speech that blamed residents for the city's decay. She said the R200 prepaid surcharge is regressive and that employee costs exceed R21.6 billion. She also criticised the R2.5 million cut to roads and asked for details of the Mayor's war rooms.
Report an error - 01:01:00
Budget debate: APC (Mokwena) offers implementation proposals
The APC thanked the finance team for crafting the budget under difficult conditions and noted the R4.1 billion net surplus. It proposed a city finance company or bank, adherence to the MFMA with no deviations, ward-based budgeting and stronger social audits. It urged retaining the surplus position.
Report an error - 01:06:32
Budget debate: DA (Santana) presents alternative budget
Cllr Santana presented a DA alternative budget with revenue of R83.6 billion, expenditure of R79.9 billion and a 0% property rates increase. It proposed capping employee costs and councillor remuneration increases, raising fines revenue by 150% and cutting loan funding to R2.5 billion. The DA rejected the network capacity charge and said it would not support more loans until a report on existing loans is provided.
Report an error - 01:14:49
Budget debate: COPE (Mokome) on sport, arts and culture
COPE supported the people's budget. Cllr Mokome noted a R53.1 million shortfall in the sports, recreation, arts and culture department. She listed vandalised and unrepaired community facilities and noted R28 million for the Johannesburg City Library (due August 2025) and R40 million for the Art Gallery (due November 2026).
Also discussed: Items 3-6: debate by DA, GOOD, FF Plus, PA, ActionSA and DA (26 March 2025) · Budget speech: regional equity, cultural precincts, housing and digital (28 May 2025)
Report an error - 01:19:49
Budget debate: FF+ (Boer) rejects the budget; interruptions
Cllr Boer called the budget one of missed opportunities that adds financial strain on ratepayers and will raise unemployment. He thanked the Speaker for accommodating Ascension Day. During his remarks on apartheid and spatial planning, a councillor objected on relevance and the Speaker let him continue. MMC Tshwaku then made a remark about his speech. The FF+ rejected the budget.
Also discussed: Debate on item 55: 2024/25 adjustment budget (55A, 55B, 55C) (13 March 2025)
Report an error - 01:27:49
Budget debate: ACDP (Mkhonza) questions transparency plans and rejects budget
The Speaker wished Cllr Mkhonza a happy birthday. He welcomed the transparency intentions but asked when and where monthly reports and SDBIPs would be published. He asked whether GFIS would investigate the appointment of Ms Helen Botes, and he opposed the retained R200 surcharge and other charges. The ACDP does not support the budget.
Report an error - 01:34:07
Budget debate: ANC (Simelane) supports the budget
Cllr Simelane said the budget aligns with the IDP. He welcomed R5.6 billion for water and R4.6 billion for electricity and urged that townships be prioritised. He proposed directing 30% of the R59 million public employment grant to youth-led ward teams, and ward-based IDP feedback platforms. The ANC supports the budget on condition that hope as well as services is delivered.
SimelaneANC
Report an error - 01:41:05
Budget debate: UIM (Abdool) supports pro-poor budget with cautions
Cllr Abdool welcomed the people's budget and asked that recycling be added to the revenue outlook. She called for youth development in theatres and for consequence management at City Power, Johannesburg Water and JRA. She objected to R313 million being returned to National Treasury and warned against overburdening ratepayers.
Report an error - 01:46:57
Budget debate: UDM (Zigebe) on Africa Day and budget analysis
Cllr Zigebe used the time donated by Cllr Magwentshu. He responded to the Boer apartheid remark and honoured Africa Day. He analysed the R89.4 billion budget and the R4.1 billion surplus and proposed measures such as revenue diplomacy, an infrastructure stress index, ring-fencing 5% of capital spend for inclusive projects, and public delivery scorecards. He urged that the budget be passed.
Also discussed: EFF's Cllr Khonkhobe on the budget (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 01:57:47
Budget debate: AIC (Mhlongo) supports the budget
Cllr Mhlongo welcomed the R89.4 billion budget, the R26.2 billion capital programme and the water and energy allocations. He commended MMC Arnolds and the cooperative governance approach. The AIC supports the budget in full.
Report an error - 02:04:32
Budget debate: PA (Simonse) acknowledges but does not blindly support
Cllr Simonse responded to an Ennerdale remark and questioned why a fully funded budget still leaves communities such as Meriting and Ennerdale behind. She commended MMC Kunene's hands-on work and proposed community auditing of service delivery. The PA acknowledged the budget but said its support is not blind.
Report an error - 02:09:59
Budget debate: Al Jama-ah (Gwamanda) supports the budget
Cllr Gwamanda asked that the appointment of a city manager be concluded given the size of the budget. He raised concern about drugs and crime, and about Health and Public Safety funding being smaller than ICT's. Al Jama-ah supports the budget.
Report an error - 02:17:46
Budget debate: PAC (MMC Nkokou) supports the budget
MMC Nkokou welcomed the budget as Pan-African and pro-poor, including R40 million for the Art Gallery and R28 million for the City Library. He asked for fairer cultural investment in Region G and better contractor oversight. A dispute arose over whether Cllr Mgcina had donated two minutes to him. The Speaker ruled his time at 13 minutes rather than 15 and he concluded in support.
Report an error - 02:27:12
Budget debate: EFF (Nkosi) raises concerns
Cllr Nkosi criticised participatory budgeting and IGR/DDM alignment, and said the safety and health portfolios are underfunded relative to need. He questioned the cut in cash funding of capital, urged recovery of pro-poor grants and raised incorrect billing. He noted EFF motions on SASSA-card ESP qualification and a land audit.
Report an error - 02:36:21
Budget debate: ANC (MMC Mgcina) supports the budget
MMC Mgcina said the ANC caucus welcomes the 2025/26 budget and described its aims: bulk infrastructure, water losses, electricity, buses, fire engines, CCTV and JMPD equipment. She appealed to the opposition to support it.
Report an error - 02:45:54
MMC Finance begins response; microphone problem
The Speaker moved to the MMC for Finance's response. MMC Arnolds thanked MMC Mgcina for the ANC's support. Cllr Mosehla requested that the mic be checked because she was inaudible, and the Speaker offered another microphone. The recording ends before the response proper.
Report an error - 02:48:15
MMC Arnolds responds to budget debate: surcharge, borrowing and indigent register
The MMC for Finance responds to points raised in the budget debate. She defends the R200 surcharge as in line with NERSA requirements, says the indigent policy is being reviewed, and explains the R3.5 billion borrowing and off-balance-sheet funding. She also gives JRA and Lufhereng allocations.
Report an error - 02:52:53
MMC Arnolds responds to DA, FF Plus, ANC, UIM, UDM and EFF
The MMC declines to respond to the DA, saying the DA tabled its own budget speech. She replies to the FF Plus on informal settlements and trading services reform. She also covers the service delivery app, flats and old age homes funding, public safety funding and grant monitoring, and notes issues from individual councillors including Ennerdale.
Report an error - 02:58:50
Cllr Ngwenya's note on public safety and health
Councillor Ngwenya notes that the 'little longer wait' on public safety and health funding will be felt on the ground. The Speaker stops further comment on the point.
NgwenyaANC
Also discussed: ANC on Public Safety (30 July 2025)
Report an error - 02:59:43
Executive Mayor's comments on the budget and the R10 demonstration
The Executive Mayor says the R89.4 billion budget is the largest ever and sets out allocations by priority area. He hands out R10 notes to councillors to illustrate budgeting choices. He tells Cllr Boer that referring to black people as 'those people' is wrong, and Boer says he never used the phrase. He also announces terms of reference of the bomb squad next week and urges councillors to support the budget.
MoreroANCAmadAl Jama-ahBoerFF+
Report an error - 03:22:18
Points on the R10 and caucus break request
After the Mayor's address, ActionSA's Cllr Modukanene asks for a 15-minute caucus break. Cllr Pietersen notes that his colleagues did not receive the R10, and the Mayor takes the money back. The Speaker grants the break, with council to resume at 16:20.
ModukaneneActionSAPietersenDA
Report an error - 04:33:17
Resumption and tabling of recommendations to council
The Speaker resumes proceedings and moves to the fourth item, recommendations to council. The Executive Mayor tables the items for council consideration and approval.
MoreroANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 04:33:58
Item 1 debate: DA and ActionSA on the 2025/26 IDP and business plans
The DA's Cllr Hooper supports some aspects of the IDP but cites weak performance management, poor public participation and poor property management, and notes the item with reservations. ActionSA supports the IDP conditionally and calls for reintegration of underperforming municipal entities.
HooperDA1 unidentified
Also discussed: Item 1: Cllr Nkomo (ActionSA) (28 May 2026) · Item 1: IDP review and business plans introduced (28 May 2026) · Item 1: Cllr Mokwena (ANC) (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 04:42:04
Item 1 debate: IFP and ACDP
The IFP's Cllr Manganyi supports the IDP but says business plans need metrics linked to the IDP and GDS 2040 and calls for quarterly dashboards. She describes human settlements priorities. The ACDP's Cllr Rohlssen supports the plans with reservations.
Also discussed: Item 1: IDP review and business plans introduced (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 04:47:47
Item 1 debate: DA Cllr Christians on public participation and the R10
Cllr Christians disputes the 20,000 public participation figure and questions credibility and accountability. He criticises the Mayor handing out money before a vote. Chairperson Raphadu asks him to withdraw the bribery allegation or substantiate it.
Also discussed: Dispute over Cllr Raphadu's remarks (2 September 2025)
Report an error - 04:55:01
Item 1 debate: UDM supports the IDP amid disputes over IDP attendance
The UDM's Cllr Zigebe supports the item and welcomes the alignment of the IDP with GDS 2040 while noting implementation gaps in several entities. He also criticises DA councillors' IDP attendance, prompting a DA point of order from Cllr Echeozonjoku, whom the Speaker rules out of order.
Report an error - 05:03:35
Item 1 debate: EFF
The EFF's Cllr Radebe says the party supports the tabling of the IDP review conditionally. The party demands bias toward underserved areas, overhaul of the indigent register, insourcing and centralisation of security contracts, and quarterly performance reports from entities.
RadebeEFF
Report an error - 05:08:57
Item 1 debate: ANC
The ANC's Cllr Sindani supports the item, saying the IDP and budget were informed by regional summits and stakeholder engagement. He asks the house to vote for the item.
Also discussed: Item 1: Cllr Mokwena (ANC) (28 May 2026) · Item 3: Cllr Nofemela (ANC) (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 05:13:31
Item 1: MMC Arnolds' reply and vote
The MMC for Finance defends the 20,000 participation figure and points the DA's Cllr Alexander to KPI 53 on page 306. Cllr Christians raises a point of order on the page reference. The Speaker puts the recommendation on page 1.8 to the house and it is agreed.
ArnoldsAICChristiansDA1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:19:41
Previous item carried; DA dissent noted
The Speaker announced that the yeses had it on the preceding item (not identified in this part of the transcript). Cllr Christians asked for the DA's dissent under Rule 84 to be noted, and the Speaker noted it.
Report an error - 05:20:31
Item 2: SDBIP tabled; ActionSA speech
The Secretary of Council introduced Item 2, the tabling of the 2025-26 Institutional SDBIP. Cllr Coverdale for ActionSA said the party noted the plan. He called for the R200 electricity surcharge to be removed and urged the city to stop sabotaging and start implementing.
Report an error - 05:24:59
Point of order on translation of Afrikaans
Cllr Sifumba raised a point of order asking for translation of an Afrikaans passage in Coverdale's speech. The Speaker noted it, said councillors may speak in the language of their choice under her earlier ruling, and told Coverdale to continue.
Report an error - 05:27:03
Item 2: ACDP input
Cllr Harris read the ACDP speech on behalf of Cllr Mkhonza, who had left for an emergency. It called for consequence management, stricter internal controls and more attention to water and electricity losses. It also pointed to procurement delays and non-payment by government institutions.
Report an error - 05:31:08
Item 2: DA criticises SDBIP indicators
Cllr Jacobs for the DA argued that the SDBIP relies on vague, process-based KPIs such as monthly meetings and patrol counts rather than outcomes. The DA contrasted this with DA-run municipalities and linked the criticism to its no-confidence motion against the Executive Mayor.
JacobsDA
Report an error - 05:37:56
Item 2: FF Plus withdraws; UDM speaks
Cllr De Lange said Cllr Boer's speech was withdrawn because of religious responsibilities. Cllr Zigebe for the UDM supported the SDBIP, citing the R84.8 billion revenue and R8.7 billion capital budget. He called for gender-responsive budgeting, a public community monitoring dashboard and inclusion of youth and people with disabilities.
Report an error - 05:44:23
Item 2: EFF conditions its support
Cllr Radebe for the EFF supported the tabling of the SDBIP with ten demands. These included monthly review of frontline service targets, full spending of the R8.7 billion capital budget and centralising security contracts under Public Safety. Other demands were a budget line for bylaw wardens and health volunteers, ward dashboards and consequence management.
RadebeEFF
Report an error - 05:51:21
Item 2: ANC supports SDBIP
Cllr Buthelezi for the ANC asked the house to support the SDBIP. He responded to opposition speakers on the legacy of apartheid and the GNU, and appealed to officials to implement what council adopts.
Report an error - 05:55:06
Item 2: Finance MMC replies; item noted
MMC Arnolds thanked supporters and told Cllr Coverdale the surcharge is not part of the SDBIP. She said the SDBIP meets MFMA, Circular 13 and IDP-alignment requirements, and she criticised Cape Town's record. The Speaker put the item for noting. Cllr Echeozonjoku withdrew a request to speak, and the DA and FF Plus registered dissent.
ArnoldsAICEcheozonjokuDAChristiansDADe LangeFF+
Report an error - 05:58:35
Item 3: Medium-term budget package introduced; ActionSA speech
The Secretary of Council introduced Item 3 (MTREF 2025/26-2027/28) read with items 3A to 3F. Cllr Nkonyeni for ActionSA welcomed some allocations and the mSCOA, e-procurement and billing-system funding. He demanded removal of the R200 surcharge, called out spending on IDP roadshows and the State of the City Address, and said ActionSA could not support the budget.
Also discussed: Item 3: 2026/27 budget – Cllr Santana (DA) (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 06:08:18
DA request for caucus break refused
After a brief interruption for MMC Arnolds to leave the chamber, Cllr Rahn asked for a five-minute DA caucus break. The Speaker refused, ruling that no caucus break is allowed once debate has opened.
Report an error - 06:09:39
Item 3: ACDP opposes rates policy and budget
Cllr Harris said the item turns on the draft rates policy (3D), as residents are asked to pay more while satisfaction with services declines. He cited a City Power survey and a resident's objection about fixed charges. He noted the absence of a waste-to-energy project and said the ACDP noted the reports but did not support them in their current form.
Also discussed: Item 3: 2026/27 budget – Cllr Santana (DA) (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 06:15:27
Item 3: DA objects to missing annexures and loan plan
Cllr Santana said the DA's alternative budget was passed to National Treasury and complained that the Finance MMC never met him. He said the 3E performance improvement plans lack annexures A to E, asked for a report on all city loans, and said the DA did not support R3.5 billion in borrowing, preferring R2.5 billion. A councillor's point of order asked him to speak through the chair.
Report an error - 06:22:59
Item 3: PAC MMC for Community Development outlines facilities
MMC Nkokou, using combined PAC and UDM time, listed community facilities and their completion dates. He also announced cemetery heritage upgrades, greening projects and Joburg Zoo plans. He drew applause and some interjection, including Cllr Echeozonjoku's complaint that he had not been greeted.
Report an error - 06:32:55
Item 3: EFF conditionally supports budget
Cllr Nethamba said the EFF will support the budget with conditions. The demands included full spending of grants with no rollovers, accurate indigent and pensioner data, and centralised security contracts under Public Safety. Others were budgets for bylaw wardens, potholes and e-health, payment of health volunteers, revenue reform and special economic zones in all regions.
Report an error - 06:40:28
Item 3: ANC supports budget
Cllr Modupi for the ANC supported the budget and related reports, citing the R84.8 billion revenue, R8.7 billion capital budget and allocations to JRA, Pikitup and City Power. He rebutted ActionSA on the R200 surcharge, saying ESP beneficiaries are exempt, and on inner-city building reclamation.
Report an error - 06:51:20
Item 3: Finance MMC responds and asks house to adopt
MMC Arnolds responded to speakers on insourcing of security, service delivery and tariffs, which she attributed to Rand Water and Eskom pass-through costs. She said public comments were referenced in the reports, and asked the house to adopt the budget. A brief exchange with Cllr Santana over meeting her followed.
Report an error - 06:55:47
Item 3: Division of the house
The Speaker read out the recommendations for items 3A to 3F and, with objections heard, divided the house. After a five-minute bell and whips fetching members, a show-of-hands vote was held with no abstentions. The result was 144 for and 104 against.
Report an error - 07:07:31
Item 3: Dissents and attendance register request
After the result, the DA (Cllr Christians) recorded dissent under Rule 84, citing missing annexures. Cllr De Lange recorded FF Plus dissent on items 3 to 3F. Cllr Rahn asked for the day's attendance register, noting numbers had dropped during the day.
Report an error - 07:10:23
Item 4: Special adjustment budget; ActionSA and ACDP
The Secretary of Council introduced Item 4, the special adjustment of the 2024/25 operating and capital budgets following the national grant review. Cllr Nkonyeni said ActionSA noted the item, focusing on the ESP backlog. Cllr Harris read the ACDP position, which did not approve the item and argued the gazette was withdrawn.
Report an error - 07:15:36
Item 4: DA attacks financial management and grant cuts
Cllr Kreusch cited the Auditor-General's findings on municipal audits and the cut to the Public Transport Network Grant affecting Rea Vaya. He said the DA would never support the budget or its related items. Cllr Raphadu raised a point of order about him shouting, and Cllr Telekoa raised another about his 1992 comparison.
Report an error - 07:27:16
Item 4: UDM supports adjustment budget
Cllr Zigebe described the adjustment as a response to grant cuts, including R258 million off the public transport grant. He said the capital budget remains R7.49 billion after the cut and welcomed the R500 million smart meter grant. He rebuked Cape Town comparisons and approved the item.
Report an error - 07:34:17
Item 4: EFF analysis and Telekoa exchange
Cllr Nethamba argued the adjustment shows growing reliance on loans and grants and a collapse in cash contributions, with PTNG funding forfeited. She asked that future adjustments come with grant performance data and accountability measures. Cllr Telekoa then used extra time to rebut Cllr Kreusch's comparison with 1992 and apartheid, and was challenged on a point of order.
Report an error - 07:41:19
Item 4: ANC notes report; MMC Arnolds replies
Cllr Ngema for the ANC reserved his speech, thanked GLU partners and noted the report. MMC Arnolds told Cllr Harris the 25 March 2025 gazette was not withdrawn and said grant-funded projects will be closely monitored. She rebutted DA remarks and thanked Cllrs Ngema and Zigebe.
Report an error - 07:46:27
Item 4: Division of the house and result
The Speaker put the recommendations on pages 4.7 to 4.8, objections were heard, and the house was divided with a three-minute bell. After show-of-hands votes, with no abstentions confirmed, the result was 144 in favour and 101 against. Item 4 passed.
Report an error - 07:54:51
Dissents, announcements and adjournment
The DA (Cllr Christians) and FF Plus (Cllr De Lange) registered dissent on Item 4. The Speaker announced the next ordinary council meeting for 25 and 26 June 2025 and adjourned the meeting.
Report an error
Questions to the executive
1Did the Mayor or MMC answer what was asked?
- Not answered
Budget Speech: Executive Mayor's comments
Verdicts are AI judgments (Jev, by TypeSafe). Tap or hover one for the probabilities, and listen to both before relying on it. Report an error
Promises
19Commitments with a date, an amount or a 'we will'.
On 5 November 2026 (when this page was built): 6 overdue, 0 due in the next 30 days, 12 with no date. Overdue first; dates are AI readings of what was said; tap or hover a label for how. All promises.
Overdue by 517 daysDada Morero · Executive Mayor
Announce the terms of reference of the bomb squad
03:13:36· by Next week· Report an error
Latest: Called late or dropped at a later sitting, 22 July 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 2 later sittings
“Next week I will be announcing the terms of reference of the bomb squad.”
- Late or droppedDA and EFF on Items 15-16; MMC Zungu responds · 2 December 2025
- Late or droppedItems 23-24: Office of the City Manager performance · 22 July 2026
Overdue by 475 daysTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Unveil an Extreme Park project on Mandela Day.
06:29:16· by 18 July 2025· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“18 July 2025, we'll unveil an Extreme Park project”
Overdue by 462 daysTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
06:25:28· by 31 July 2025 (completion); 1 September 2025 (ready for use)· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“completion by 31st July 2025, ready for use by the 1st of September 2025”
Overdue by 431 daysTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Complete the Matholesville MPC library.
Official record: JDA Q2 2025/26 report (AI-matched)
06:26:10· by 31 August 2025· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote · official record (2)
“Matholesville MPC library, completion by 31st August 2025.”
- Official record JDA Q2 2025/26 report, p.68: “Library building 95% complete” · Library building 95% complete; awaiting town planning process and title deedsOctober to December 2025; online since Wednesday, 4 March 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
- Official record JDA Q2 2025/26 report, p.68: “Matholesville New MPC” · Stage 5: Construction · R 7 954 000.00 (2025/26)October to December 2025; online since Wednesday, 4 March 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
Overdue by 128 daysTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Complete the Kaalfontein MPC multipurpose court and library.
06:26:10· by 30 June 2026· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“Kaalfontein MPC multipurpose court and library, completion by 30 June 2026.”
Overdue by 128 daysTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Digitise cemetery records in this financial year.
06:28:10· by this financial year· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“the digitization of cemetery records, a long overdue project now being implemented”
Date passed; the City's newsroom said doneDada Morero · Executive Mayor
JRA to conclude reconstruction of phase one of Lilian Ngoyi road
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
03:17:41· by August 2025· Report an error
Latest: City says done, 18 September 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting · 1 City report · official record (1)
“concluding the reconstruction of the phase one of Lilian Ngoyi road by August 2025”
- Late or droppedItems 25 to 34: ACDP, DA and FF+ on JRA and Transport · 30 September 2025
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.136: “Reconstruction of Lillian Ngoyi F Ward 60” · R 20,000,000 (2026/27)Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
- City says doneCity newsroom, 18 Sept 2026: City updates stakeholders on the Lilian Ngoyi Rehabilitation project
“the final phase will integrate with the 450m stretch between Harrison and Wanderers streets, which reopened to traffic in September 2025.”
No dateLebogang Cleopatra Modukanene · ActionSA
ActionSA will provide strict oversight of the city rejuvenation allocation that follows its motion.
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 31 July 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“We will ensure strict oversight.”
- In progressItems 27–31: Economic Development department and entities performance reports · 31 July 2025
No dateEunice Mgcina · MMC for Development Planning
Through the budget, the city will buy more buses and more fire engines.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 2 September 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting · official record (1)
“we will improve transport mobility for scores of residents through the acquisition of more buses”
- In progressItem 17: Opening contribution on senior-manager vacancies · 2 September 2025
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.116: “3864_02_Procurement of fleet - SHELA: Red fleet (Fire Engines” · R 50,000,000 (2026/27); R 72,620,000; R 50,000,000Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
No dateEunice Mgcina · MMC for Development Planning
The budget will fund more CCTV cameras and equipment and more personnel for JMPD.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27 (AI-matched)
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 30 July 2025 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting · official record (1)
“we will also equip our JMPD officers with state-of-the-art equipment”
- In progressMMC Tshwaku replies; items 19-20 agreed · 30 July 2025
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.144: “Supply Firearms to the JMPD new recruits” · R 5,000,000; R 10,000,000; R 15,000,000 (2026/27)Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
No dateEunice Mgcina · MMC for Development Planning
The city will ensure all capital projects currently under construction are completed.
Latest: Called late or dropped at a later sitting, 28 May 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 3 later sittings
“all CAPEX projects currently under construction are completed”
- Late or droppedIFP on clinic oversight findings · 30 July 2025
- In progressMMC Mgcina responds on Development Planning · 29 September 2025
- Late or droppedFF Plus Cllr Boer proposes a Consolidation and Maintenance budget · 28 May 2026
No dateMargaret Arnolds · MMC for Finance
Ensure tight oversight of budget implementation and consequence management for underperforming areas
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“will commit to ensuring tight oversight on the implementation of the budget program and consequence management”
No dateMargaret Arnolds · MMC for Finance
Review the indigent policy to be more inclusive and expand eligible customers
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We are reviewing, emphasis on the word reviewing, the indigent policy to be more inclusive”
No dateDada Morero · Executive Mayor
Reach a 10% repair and maintenance budget allocation, with consequence management for failure
03:19:11· 10% of budget· Report an error
Latest: Called late or dropped at a later sitting, 24 June 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 3 later sittings
“we must get to reach the 10% budget allocation that we can take care of our infrastructure”
- Late or droppedBudget speech: community upliftment, governance and cost containment · 27 May 2026
- In progressUDM's Cllr Zigebe on infrastructure and trading services reform · 28 May 2026
- Late or droppedItem 66: DA supports framework · 24 June 2026
No dateTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Complete the Cosmo City swimming pool without delay once the additional R20 million is secured.
Official record: SDBIP 2026/27, JDA Q2 2025/26 report (AI-matched)
06:27:07· R20 million· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote · official record (2)
“Once the additional of 20 million in funding is secured”
- Official record SDBIP 2026/27, p.115: “Cosmo City New swimming pool New Community Centre COSMO CITY EXT3” · R - (2026/27); R 5,000,000; R 5,000,000Plan for July 2026 to June 2027; online since Monday, 1 June 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
- Official record JDA Q2 2025/26 report, p.124: “Cosmo City New swimming pool New Community Centre COSMO CITY EXT3 C Ward” · 0.00% used · R 6 827 198 (2025/26 annual budget)October to December 2025; online since Wednesday, 4 March 2026. AI-matched, not yet checked by a person.
No dateTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Invest in upgrading and preserving heritage cemeteries such as Avalon and Braamfontein.
06:27:39· R5 million· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“This department will invest 5 million to upgrade and preserve key heritage”
No dateTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Plant trees and maintain horticulture, focusing on underserved areas.
06:28:46· R20 million for tree planting; over R100 million for horticultural maintenance· Report an error
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“With 20 million dedicated to tree planting, over 100 million for horticultural maintenance”
No dateTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Launch a virtual zoo with Microsoft for the Joburg Zoo.
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“partnership with Microsoft to launch a virtual zoo”
No dateTebogo Nkokou · MMC for Community Development
Upgrade the Joburg Zoo gorilla enclosure to global animal welfare standards.
Not raised again in 25 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we are initiating a major upgrade of our gorilla enclosure”
Decisions
11What council approved, rejected or put off.
- 00:12:33
Opening and quorumadjourned briefly
The Speaker paused the sitting from 12:06 to resume at 12:20 so councillors could sign the attendance register.
- 00:33:22
Quorumquorum confirmed
The Speaker reported 219 councillors present, which formed a quorum, and the meeting continued.
- 00:35:42
Applications for leave of absenceapproved
Apologies and late arrivals from several parties, including Cllr Mpolobosho, were noted by the House.
- 00:54:22
Concern about absent senior managementnoted
The Speaker noted Cllr Maila's concern that the Acting City Manager and Group CFO were not present.
- 05:19:01
Item 1: 2025/26 Integrated Development Plan Review and 2025/26 Departmental and Municipal Entities Business Plansapproved
The Speaker put the recommendation on page 1.8 to the house and councillors responded 'Agreed' without recorded dissent.
- 03:23:59
ActionSA request for a caucus breakapproved
The Speaker granted a 15-minute caucus break and adjourned the council to resume at 16:20.
- 05:19:41
Item preceding Item 2 (not identified in this part of the transcript)approved
The Speaker announced the yeses had it, and the DA's Rule 84 dissent was noted.
- 05:57:37
Item 2: 2025-26 Institutional SDBIPnoted
The item was put for noting; DA dissent under Rule 84 and FF Plus serious concern were recorded.
- 07:07:09
Item 3 (with 3A-3F): 2025/26-2027/28 medium-term budget and related documentationapproved
After a division by show of hands, 144 voted in support and 104 against with no abstentions; DA and FF Plus dissent were noted.
- 07:54:32
Item 4: Special adjustment of 2024/25 operating and capital budgets (national grant review)approved
After a division, 144 voted yes and 101 no; DA and FF Plus dissent were noted.
- 07:55:17
Adjournment and next meetingadjourned
The Speaker announced the next ordinary council meeting for 25 and 26 June 2025 and adjourned the sitting.
Attendance and conduct
54Who was away and why, as said in the chamber.
Apologies read out 26
- Private business (1)
- Mpolobosho
- Arriving late (9)
- Chame, Crichton, Seerane, Raseruthe, Nyaqela, Ponsonby, May*, Cherry, Loyiso Masuku
- Bereavement (1)
- Mkhonto
- Party business (1)
- Wilskut
- Leaving early (1)
- Mkhonza
* Name as heard; not matched to exactly one councillor.
Warned or stopped by the chair 23
- 00:31:40
Speaker asked councillors to settle down.
- 00:38:07
Speaker paused a speaker and asked councillors to settle down and respect the debate.
- 00:46:06
Speaker asked councillors to settle down during a speech.
- 01:00:49
Speaker told the GOOD speaker that her six minutes had run out.
- 01:27:23
Tshwaku: Speaker cautioned MMC Tshwaku not to question the completed speech.
- 01:33:46
Time warning to the ACDP speaker.
- 01:41:05
Speaker asked councillors to settle down.
- 02:03:37
Time warning to the AIC speaker.
- 02:04:01
Zitha: Speaker called out Councillor Zitha during the AIC speech.
- 02:04:48
Speaker asked councillors to settle down before the PA speech.
- 02:17:06
Time warning to the Al Jama-ah speaker.
- 02:23:40
Time warning to the PAC speaker.
- 02:25:19
Nkosi: Speaker told Councillor Nkosi to sit while a time-donation dispute was settled.
- 02:35:50
Time warning to the EFF speaker.
- 02:59:33
Ngwenya*: The chair stops Councillor Ngwenya from continuing a comment after the MMC's reply.
- 03:08:38
Amad: The chair tells Councillor Amad he interrupted the Executive Mayor and asks that the Mayor be allowed his time.
- 04:54:25
Christians: The chair warns Councillor Christians that his speaking time is nearly over.
- 04:56:20
Echeozonjoku: The chair tells Councillor Echeozonjoku she cannot respond and orders her to sit down.
- 06:24:47
Echeozonjoku: The chair rebuked Echeozonjoku for interrupting MMC Nkokou's speech.
- 06:55:16
Santana: The chair told Santana it was not the time to respond to the MMC.
- 07:09:14
Christians: The chair told Christians to switch off the microphone.
- 07:24:22
Kreusch: The chair told Kreusch to switch off the microphone while a point of order was raised.
- 07:26:14
Telekoa: The chair told Telekoa that speeches are not debated during a point of order.
Sound or equipment problem 5
- 01:01:25
Speaker could not hear the APC speaker well and asked him to move closer to the microphone.
- 02:47:37
A councillor reported that the MMC for Finance could not be heard due to a microphone problem.
- 02:48:15
The chair tells a councillor at the podium to be audible while another councillor helps with the microphone.
- 04:47:20
A councillor refers to a microphone problem at the start of the ACDP speech.
- 07:10:02
Rahn*: The chair could not hear Rahn when he spoke.
Transcript
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