Transcript: 11th Special Council Meeting

Opening and welcome to the memorial service

00:00:00[inaudible] Masuku in absentia, Chief Whip of Council Councillor Kasamula Love Chauke in absentia, Chair of Chairs Councillor Adolph Marema, the Leader of the Official Opposition Party Councillor Belinda Echeozonjoku, fellow Councillors, the the Tshedo family, and the Simelane families respectively, and all present Officials of the City of Johannesburg, members of community in the gallery, you are all welcome to this memorial service of two Councillors. Ladies and gentlemen, in 3 months later we gather

00:00:58it's 3 months later we gather again in this Special Council Meeting not merely to mourn, but to honour lives of two of our Councillors, Councillor Joyce Goitsemang Tshedo, born on the 26th of April 1961 and Councillor Simphiwe Oscar Simelane, born on the 1st of March 1987.

Leave of absence and late arrivals

00:01:30We now proceed with applications for leave of absence.

00:01:34Do we have any leave of absence? Councillor Masera.

00:01:42Good morning Speaker. Um, fellow Councillors and the families of our beloved Councillors. Um, Speaker, I've got the following LOAs, Councillor Maureen Mnisi, ill health, um, Councillor Michael Crichton, party business, Mark Van Der Merwe is in court today, Councillor S'yikhumatsoane, um, party business, uh, Councillor Daniel Schay, party business, Councillor Lynda Shackleford, ill health, Lerich Mazibuko, party business, Mlungisi Ncube, party business, Alex Christians, party business, Obakeng Kamela, party business,

00:02:30Batsi Moloisane, private business, Florence Roberts, ill health, Gerry Ramaru, party business, Neuren Pietersen, private business, Joanne Horwitz uh, will arrive late, Michael Crichton, party business, Stuart Marais, party business, and Sean Kreusch, party business. Thank you so much, Speaker.

00:02:57Thank you so much Councillor Masera, um Councillor Helen Makhuba, and then Councillor Ndlela, and then Councillor from Action SA.

00:03:13Thank you, Speaker. Good morning, Speaker. All protocol observed. For the IFP, late arrivals we have Councillor Khanyile, Councillor Mkhize, Councillor Manganyi. Ill health, Councillor Nyembe. Um, urgent private business, MMC Mabaso. Thank you.

00:03:35Thank you so much. Councillor Ndlela.

00:03:39Eh, thank you Speaker and good morning to you. Eh, on the ANC Caucus it's Councillor Mgaga, ill health, Councillor Ramafikeng, Councillor Zungu and Councillor Mmbengwa will arrive late. Thank you.

00:03:51Thank you so much Councillor Ndlela. Action SA.

00:03:56TshivendaNdo livhuwa Speaker. Ndi tambe u dzhia heyi tshifhinga uri ndi rambedze na mita mivhili yo welwaho nga gole litswu. Ndi ri Mudzimu a vha tonde, Mudzimu a vhe navho. U bva kha Action SA ri na makhantselara a tevhelaho. Ri na Khantselara Masuku, Khantselara Zwane, ndi family responsibility. Makhantselara a tevhelaho ndi party business, Khantselara Vho Mkhonto, Khantselara Ngwetsheni, Khantselara Joseph Mabunda, Khantselara Themba Mabunda, Khantselara Mokoka. Makhantselara a tevhelaho vha do swika late ndi Khantselara Zack Lebatlang and Khantselara Xulu. Ndo livhuwa Speaker.

00:04:36Thank you so much. Um, Councillor Pitso. Thank you.

00:04:45Thank you Speaker. Good morning to the bereaved families and all Councillors and colleagues. I have the following late arrivals from the Patriotic Alliance Caucus, it's Councillor Kaldine, Councillor Wilskut, Councillor Ponsonby, Councillor Louw, Councillor Smouse, Councillor Mokwena, Councillor Subeida, Councillor Kunene and Councillor Steenkamp. Thank you very much.

00:05:09Thank you so much Councillors. May proceed SCC.

00:05:14We move to a message of condolence by the Executive Mayor.

00:05:22I've seen you. Councillor Rohlssen.

00:05:30A very good morning to you, Madam Speaker, and uh colleagues, all protocols observed. Uh if you can please note uh Councillor Harris will be late. Um, he won't be in this session, but in the later session. Thank you very much.

00:05:43Thank you Councillor. Apologies that we are taking now is apologies for this session. Thank you Councillor.

Condolence message from the Executive Mayor

00:05:54And we'll have the message of condolence by the Executive Mayor.

00:05:58Councillor Mgcina representing the Executive Mayor. Thank you so much.

00:06:18Thank you, uh, um, Speaker. Greetings uh to the Executive Mayor in absentia, our Speaker of Council, the Executive uh Deputy Mayor in absentia, fellow MMCs in absentia, I see I'm alone today, the Chair of Chairs, the Council Chief Whip, the Leaders of various political parties, the City Manager, fellow colleagues and Councillors in the chambers, members of the media, uh, residents of this great, resilient City of Johannesburg, and a special greetings and acknowledgement to the Simelane and the Tshedo families, ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

00:07:26Honourable Speaker, fellow Councillors, distinguished guests, and members of our community, on behalf of the ANC, on behalf of the Executive Mayor, I rise in solemn remembrance of Councillor Simphiwe Oscar Simelane, uPardon, and Councillor Joyce Goitsemang Tshedo, both of whom departed within days of each other's of each other and left us shaken, sad, and at a loss for words because of their passing. We gather here, Madam Speaker, in this solemn assembly not merely as colleagues and comrades,

00:08:22but as a collective family bound by duty, service and remembrance. Today, Madam Speaker, Council pauses in its deliberations to honour two devoted public servants whose lives were dedicated to the upliftment of our communities and the strengthening of our democracy. uCouncillor uPardon Simelane, who served Ward 19 in Soweto under the banner of African National Congress, was a man of principle and perseverance. Though very young at the time of his passing, his devotion to the people of Soweto was unwavering.claim

00:09:18He carried the hopes and aspirations of his constituents with dignity and ensuring that their voices resonated within this chambers. His leadership was marked not by affluence, but by humility and an unwavering commitment to the service. He walked along his people, listened to their struggles and worked tirelessly to bring about meaningful change. His legacy is stamped in the streets of Soweto in the hearts of those he served. On the other hand, Councillor Joyce Goitsemang Tshedo, a PR Councillor of the Economic Freedom Fighters,

00:10:13who was based in Alexandra township, likewise embodied the spirit of service. Although she came from a different political tradition from that of Councillor Simelane, her dedication to the Alexandra people was equally resolute. She championed justice, fairness and opportunity, speaking with courage and conviction on behalf of her community. Her voice stood for dignity and equality, and her presence in this Council was a reminder that our democracy thrives when diverse voices are heard and respected. And she leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and compassion

00:11:09that will continue to inspire. Though they represented different political parties, Councillor Simelane and Councillor Tshedo shared a common vision or mission to serve the people of Johannesburg with integrity and passion. Their lives remind us that beyond political lines there lies a sacred duty to build a city that is inclusive, just and prosperous. In their passing, we are reminded that service to the people is the highest calling and that true leadership is measured not in accolades, but in the lives touched and the communities uplifted.

00:12:01To the families of Councillor uPardon Simelane and Councillor Tshedo, we extend our deepest condolences. We know that no words can fully ease the pain of your loss, but we hope you find comfort in knowing that their contributions will not be forgotten. As their comrades, colleagues and communities, we stand with you in solidarity. We honour their sacrifice. We pledge to continue the work they so faithfully pursued. As we mourn, let us all celebrate. Let us celebrate their courage, their devotion and their enduring impact. Let us carry forward their vision of a better Johannesburg,emotive

00:12:58a city where every citizen is valued and every community is uplifted. In closing, Madam Speaker, I wish to leave you with the words of scripture for comfort and strength. Saint Paul says in the 2nd Corinthians Chapter 5, Verse 1, "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." May this words, mndeni, bring comfort to yourselvesemotive

00:13:49isiZulunjengemindeni, Jaca, Ndlusika.emotive

00:13:53And may the souls of Councillor Simelane and Councillor Tshehlo, I mean Tshedo, sorry Councillor Tshehlo, um, Councillor Tshedo, may their souls rest in eternal peace.emotive

00:14:12isiZuluUNkulunkulu angaba nani aniqinise kulolu hambo, kulesi simo enikuso niwumndeni, niyimindeni nonke. Nitholeni ukuthula, nithole nokuhealer as well. Ngiyabonga, Madam Speaker.emotive

00:14:32Thank you.emotive

Condolence message from the EFF

00:14:34Thank you Councillor Mgcina for representing the Executive Mayor. The EFF, Councillor Khonkhobe.

00:14:44We'll now have the message of condolence by the Economic Freedom Fighters.

00:14:52Councillor Khonkhobe.

00:15:25isiZuluEh, sanibonani. Sanibonani emndenini. Sanibonani

00:15:30to the Executive Mayor and members of the Mayoral Committee, the Speaker of the Council, Chief Whip of the EFF in her absentia, Leaders of the political parties, fellow Councillors of City of Johannesburg,

00:15:46isiZulungiyanibingelela. Namhlanje sihlangene

00:15:53to honour and celebrate the life of a dedicated servant of the people, leaders who committed their lives to service of our communities and the resident of Johannesburg.

00:16:05isiZuluNgikhuluma ngomama uJoyce,

00:16:08it's difficult to call her the Councillor because I used to call her uMama Joyce, and the PR Councillor Simelane. The passing of a Councillor, it is not only the loss to the family, but the loss to the people they represented with courage, commitment and humanity. As the EFF we join the family and friends and political organization and the broader community in the mourning in this mourning painful loss. We extend our deepest condolences to assure the family that they are not alone during this difficult time. The late Mama Joyce serviced the people with dedication and carried the responsibility of a public office with honour. uBaba uSimelane understood that leadership is not only about position or titles,emotive

00:17:04but it's about serving the people, listening to communities and standing firm during the difficult times. Bobabili, their contribution toward building stronger communities, advancing in the interest of the people of Johannesburg will never be forgotten. Councillors, we often come from different political background and ideologies, but

00:17:25isiZulunamhlanje

00:17:27it reminds us behind beyond politics we are united by ubuntu and the responsibility to serve our people. Today we put aside all our differences to pay tribute to the fellow servant of the people whose work and sacrifice contributed to the growth on and the development of our city.

00:17:48isiZuluEmndenini, emndenini kaSimelane, emndenini kaTshedo, kaMama Tshedo, siyabonga. Sibonga kakhuluemotive

00:17:57for allowing people of Johannesburg to share to share the lives of your loved ones. We understand that behind every public servant

00:18:07isiZulukunomndeniemotive

00:18:08that sacrificed time, comfort, precious moment so the communities may be served. Your pain is our pain. Your loss is our loss

00:18:17isiZulungoba nathi silahlekelwe siwuCity of Johannesburg

00:18:20and as an EFF

00:18:22isiZulusilahlekelwe umama uJoyce.

00:18:23She was not only the member, but she was a ground force of Ward 108 in Sub-region E. uBaba uSimelane was not only the Councillor in Ward 19 eDlamini, but also serviced the people of City of Johannesburg with pride and dedication.

00:18:42isiZuluWanikela isikhathi sakhe ukuthi akhone ukuthi azokwazi ukuthi ashiye,

00:18:47to plant the seed

00:18:48isiZuluukuthi nakusasa abazolandela baqhubeke ezinyathelweni zakhe.

00:18:53As we remember the life of our late Councillors, let us recommit ourselves to the values of the servant leadership, unity, integrity and dedication to the people. May their legacy inspire us to continue working toward a better Johannesburg for all.

00:19:10isiZuluEngathi bangathola ukuphumula laba khona. Kodwa emndenini, sithanda nje kakhulu ukubonga, more especially with the EFF. uMama uJoyce ubemdala, kodwa ubudala bakhe ubekade esebenzela umphakathi.

00:19:26That is why it is difficult for many of us to call her the PR Councillor, because she used to reprimand us in many things, in many ways. She was a flower to us, more especially us

00:19:38isiZuluthina esingenabazali. Besazi ukuthi

00:19:40when the situation

00:19:41isiZulukunzimanyana,

00:19:42you know who to consult.

00:19:43isiZuluNgokusho njalo emndenini kaTshedo siyabonga kakhulu. Emndenini kaSimelane silahlekelwe

00:19:50because we're expecting a lot from the Councillor. As young as he is, he was very vibrant in Ward 19. He made many changes lapha eSoweto.

00:20:03isiZuluNgokusho njalo siyabonga kakhulu,

00:20:05Madam Speaker. Thank you very much.

00:20:08Thank you Councillor.

Condolence message from the ANC and a poem

00:20:12We'll now have a message of condolence by the African National Congress.

00:20:19Thank you, Chair of Chairs, Councillor Marema.

00:20:34Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Allow me to greet or ride on the protocol that has already been established in this Council chamber. And in their absentia, I would like to recognize and greet them, the Mayor and the Executive Committee, Chairpersons of Portfolio Committee, Whip of Council, Honourable Councillors, family of the deceased and friends. Today we gather with heavy hearts as we pay tribute to two public servants who dedicated their lives to serving the people of Johannesburg, the late Councillor Oscar Simphiwe Simelane of the ANC and the Councillor Joyce Tshedo of the EFF.

00:21:33Their passing is a painful loss to Council, to the political organization, to their families, to the communities they served with commitment and pride. Councillor Oscar Simphiwe Simelane was a disciplined and humble leader who carried himself with dignity and respect. He remained committed to the people on the ground and understood the responsibility that comes with public office. He was always prepared to serve, to engage, to contribute towards building better communities. His dedication to the work of Council and to the people of Johannesburg will always be remembered. We also remember the late Councillor Joyce Tshedo, who served with courage, determination and passion. She was a strong voice for the people

00:22:31she represented and remained committed to ordinary residents. She served with strength and conviction, and her contribution to this Council will not be forgotten. As leaders, we may belong to different political organizations, but today we stand united in mourning two Councillors who gave their time, energy and lives to the public service. Their passing reminds us that leadership is about serving communities, protecting democracy and working to improve the lives of our people. We must continue to build a culture of respect within our political spaces and honour those who dedicated themselves to serving the society. The work of Councillors is not easy. It requires sacrifice,

00:23:31patience and commitment. Both Councillor Simelane and Councillor Tshedo carried this responsibility with honour. To the Simelane and Tshedo family, today we share in your pain and grief. We thank you for allowing them to serve the people of Johannesburg. Their legacy will remain in the communities they touched, the lives they impacted, and the work they carried out during their time of offices. On behalf of the residents of the City of Johannesburg, and on behalf of the City of Johannesburg, I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, political organization of the late Councillors. May God grant strength and comfort during this difficult time. May their soul rest in eternal peace.emotive

00:24:33Their contribution and memories will forever remain part of the history of this Council. I thank you. Madam Speaker, it would be amiss of me not to read this poem that was shared by one of my learned fellow Councillor, I think it was Councillor Bolani, and I want to I want you to allow me just for 2 minutes to read this poem, and I think it's one of those poem that in time like this it reminds myself that the life we are living is borrowed. We are living on a borrowed time. It reads, "Every minute someone leaves this world, not only the old, not only the sick, not only the weak, someone, somewhere,emotive

00:25:31age has nothing to do with it. Life does not always send a warning. The truth is we are all standing in a line, a line we did not choose, a line we cannot see the end of. The strange thing is most of us don't even realize we are in it. We wake up every morning thinking we have time, time to hate, time to fight, time to compete, time to prove we are better than someone else. But the line is moving quietly, patiently, relentlessly, and every day someone step out of it. We never know how many people are ahead of us. We never know when our name will be called. We cannot move to the back of the line. We cannot step out of it.emotive

00:26:31We cannot pause it, and no amount of money, power, fame or connection can halt its progress. So while we are still standing here, while our turn has not yet come, let us make peace. Let us forgive. Let us stop carrying the heavy bags of anger and hatred. Let us do good, not tomorrow, not when it is convenient, but now. Let us tell the truth even when lies seems easier. Let us be honest even when honesty comes at a cost. Let us show kindness to people who may never be able to repay us, because one day, whether we like it or not, we will leave this world. That is the one appointment no human being can cancel. So what is the point of holding a grudge against someoneemotive

00:27:33who could leave tomorrow, or you could leave before them? What is the point of destroying someone's life, sending a brother to prison or plotting revenge when neither of you truly controls tomorrow? Why boast about money when money has never stopped death? Why boast about status when titles disappear the moment life leaves the body? Why deceive yourself with power and connections when countless powerful people stood in the same line before you and still had to leave? Why fight your own brother over land when the earth itself will one day cover both of you? Look around the world, people fighting, families breaking, community divided, all for things that cannot follow us beyond the grave. Evil often grows from ignorance. Pride is the costumeemotive

00:28:32of foolishness. Selfishness is the poverty of the soul, and betrayal is the language of weakness. But kindness is strength, compassion is wisdom, and humanity is the greatest legacy a person can leave behind. At the end of life, nobody ask how much money you had in your bank account. They ask how many lives you touched. They remember whether your presence brought peace or pain, whether you lifted others up or pushed them down, whether you built bridges or you burned them down. So while we are still alive, while our hearts are still beating, while our feet are still moving this mysterious line called life, let us do good. Let us love more. Let us forgive faster. Let us help those who cannot help themselves. Let us use the little time we have not onlyemotive

00:29:32to build our lives, but to uplift humanity. Because when our turn finally comes, we step out of this line, the only thing that will remain is the good we did for others. May the Lord guide and give our hearts that which is right. May the Lord forgive our shortcomings, fill our lives with sincere goodness, and crownemotive

00:30:00grant the two families the beautiful ending with an understanding that this was just a lie. May you be comforted, tselatshweu, I thank you.emotive

00:30:14Thank you, Chair of Chairs.

ActionSA tribute to Cllr Tshedo

00:30:19May we have messages of condolence by other political parties.

00:30:26ActionSA, Councillor Matabane.

00:30:50Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'd like to greet everybody in the house. Um all councillors, and family in the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Today I stand before you saddened as I speak about Councillor Joyce, whom I have whom I have known both in this council chambers and within the community of Alexandra. Councillor Joyce was such a sweetheart. She used to call me and many others baby girl.emotive

00:31:24She always carried a warm smile and loved complimenting others. Just a few days before her departure from this world, she celebrated her birthday, and to show the kind of person she was, Councillor Joyce was inviting almost everyone to come to the birthday. And that shows the kind of person she was. She was very generous, loving and very welcoming. Councillor Joyce was known in the community of Alexandra as a true servant

00:31:54of the people. She helped the community wholeheartedly, not only those affiliated with her political organisation, but anyone in need. Councillor Joyce was always available. She served without hesitation. And with that being said, I'd like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, colleagues from the Economic Freedom Fighters and the entire um community of Alexandra. It is only God who truly knows and understands in this in times like these, we ask ourselvesemotive

00:32:27so many questions, but we know that our answer and comfort is found in God. The word of God in the book of Psalms 34 verse 18 reminds us that the Lord is close to those who are broken-hearted and saves and saves those who are crushed in spirit. And again today I'm reminded of of my favorite scripture, Romans 8 verse 39.emotive

00:32:51Setswanae ya re botsisa gore ke eng se se ka re kgaogantšhang le lerato la Modimo.emotive

00:32:56Nor death nor depth can separate us from the love of from the love of God.emotive

00:33:0120 seconds, Councillor.emotive

00:33:03SetswanaBecause Modimo e santse e le Modimo. Go ba leloko le ba lesika ke re la lang ka ntho madi a dutla. Gomotsegang, Modimo e santse e le Modimo ebile Modimo ke Modimo o palelwang ke go palelwa. Modimo wa fodisa ebile Modimo o teng. Ke a leboga.emotive

ACDP condolences

00:33:20Thank you, Councillor. Councillor Rohlssen, ACDP.

00:33:42Greetings to you, Madam Speaker, all protocols observed. Colleagues, dear families of the Simelane and the Tshedo families, the ACDP would like to send you and share its deepest condolences, heartfelt condolences to you at this time. We wish you

00:34:12the peace, the comfort, the strength that can only come from the Lord Jesus Christ. People, residents, colleagues and friends, relatives can comfort us, but only so much. But the one that truly comforts us is the Lord Jesus. He gives us the peace that transcendsemotive

00:34:42all understanding, and this is the peace that I wish for you today. Anyone that is struggling with this tragedy, not only the family, not only the families, not only the friends, but everyone that has been affected by this tragedy, we wish you God's strength and God's peace. Councillor Simelane was known for his humility. He was knownclaimemotive

00:35:12as a Pirates fan. He was known for his generosity, his kindness, but one of his strong points was his humility. He was generous, giving money to those who needed it, always extending a generous hand. He was the Ward 19 councillor of Soweto,emotive

00:35:42and he served his people well. To the family of Councillor Simelane, you can be proud of your son. You can be proud of him. The EFF councillor, Joyce Tshedo of Ward 108 in Alexandra, she was a strong activist. She cared for her people. She was a strong mother.

00:36:13Also, very generous, very kind, a hard worker and very strict. Very strict, but a hard worker, using that strictness in professionalism to do the job well. She served her community. She tried to bring hope to her community. And this reminds me of the one that gives us eternal hope,emotive

00:36:44and this is the Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus Christ says to us all, not only the residents of Joburg, the families of the councillors, but to the residents of Johannesburg, the people of South Africa and the people of the world, the Lord Jesus says, I have not created you to carry these burdens alone. I have not created you to walk your journey alone. So many of usemotive

00:37:14carry the burdens of life on our own shoulders. We carry anxieties, stresses, worries, doubts on our own shoulders, and the Lord Jesus says, I have created you to walk with me, to share your burdens with me. Talk through your stresses, your anxieties, discuss them with me. Please do not carry them alone.emotive

00:37:45And as we, as I implore you to please make time with the Lord every day, not just to try and carry your burdens alone, but to make time with Him every day, to talk to Him, to draw close to Him, to share youremotive

00:37:59Thank you, Councillor.emotive

00:38:01Thank you, Madam Speaker. To share your burdens with Him, to draw close to His heart and to read your word, because the the pages in the word are eternal life. So I urge you to spend time with the Lord and to read your word so that the Lord may comfort you and love you and hold you in your time of trouble. And may He guide your steps and give you a peace that transcends all understanding. God bless you. I thank you.emotive

Al Jama-ah condolences

00:38:32Thank you, Councillor Rohlssen. Councillor Karolia from Al Jama-ah.

00:39:11arAssalamu alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

00:39:15May peace and blessings be upon you all. Madam Speaker, honourable members of council, colleagues, friends and all that's gathered here today, I'm just going to quote a small verse from the Quran.

00:39:32arInna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un.

00:39:36Indeed, we belong to Almighty Allah, and indeed to Him we shall return.

00:39:42On behalf of Al Jama-ah, I rise to convey our sincere condolences to the Economic Freedom Fighters, to the bereaved family of the late Councillor Tshedo. Councillor Tshedo will be remembered as a disciplined, hard-working and committed public representative. She served the residents of the City of Johannesburg with distinction, dedication and unwavering sense of duty.

00:40:12May her soul rest in peace. We further extend our condolences to the African National Congress, to the residents of Soweto, and all who served alongside the late Councillor Simelane. Councillor Simelane devoted his tenure to youth empowerment, community upliftment, and advancement of service delivery. His selfless commitment to his constituency

00:40:42has left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire the emerging leaders. At moments such as these, we are reminded by the Holy Quran, every soul shall taste death. That is Surah Al-Ankabut, chapter 29, verse 57. May the Almighty grant both councillors eternal peace. May Allah Almighty bestow upon their families, colleagues and communities

00:41:12the fortitude and serenity to bear this loss. Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those affected.

00:41:20arWa alaikum salam warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

00:41:23Peace and mercy blessings of Almighty be with you all. Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

COPE condolences

00:41:31Thank you, Councillor Karolia. Councillor J Mokome from COPE.

00:41:49Thank you, Madam Speaker and good morning. Can I uphold the protocols that have been raised by the previous speakers? Madam Speaker, today we collectively end our bereavement through this ceremony in this chamber. This is where Councillor Tshedo and Councillor

00:42:20Simelane traded their skills, given their vision and mandates for the residents of the City of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, the Congress of the People, COPE, expresses its heartfelt condolences to the two families.

00:42:50SetswanaBagaetsho ha re le ko Setswaneng, ra re la maabane le phirimile. La gompieno ke go itlhoboga bagaetsho. Mme e kare la ka moso ga le tlhaba, re sale ka kgopolo eo ya gore bana ba rona, batsadi ba rona, rakgadi, malome, kana sena sebata ke sele pale, setlogolwana ke sele pale,emotive

00:43:20Setswanamme ha ntse re tsweletsa ngwao ya lesika foo bagaetsho, re tla re fale le fale re kgone gore mo lelapeng la rona bagaetsho,

00:43:31Joyce in a

00:43:33Setswanaleinagare e nne sekagare,

00:43:36Oscar,

00:43:38Setswanare seka ra lebala

00:43:38that legacy as we move forward. But also, Madam Speaker, let me reflect on an excerpt from the Serenity Prayer.

00:43:55Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time, accepting the hardships as a pathway to peace. Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it. Trusting that He will make all things right,

00:44:25if we surrender to His will, that He may be that we may be extremely happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the future.

00:44:44SetswanaBagaetsho, Modimo o montšha ntsa Modimo wa kgale. Re a leboga.

00:44:51Thank you, Speaker.

DA condolences

00:44:52Thank you so much, Councillor. Councillor N Sifumba from the Democratic Alliance.

00:45:13Thank you very much, Speaker. Greetings um to fellow councillors and special greetings to the grieving families present here today. Speaker, we gather in this chamber under a dark cloud of sorrow to honour and remember two public servants who dedicated their lives to the service of our people. Councillor Tshedo of the EFF and Councillor Simelane of the African National Congress.

00:45:42Speaker, death has a painful way of reminding us of our shared humanity. In this chamber, we may sit on different sides politically. We may debate fiercely, disagree passionately, and represent different ideological perspectives. But moments like these remind us that before politics, we are human beings called to serve the people of Johannesburg. Both Councillor Tshedo and Councillor Simelane answered

00:46:14the noble call to public service. They carried the hopes, frustrations, and aspirations of communities they represented. Public service is not an easy path. It demands sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to others, often at the expense of one's own comfort and family time. Today we pause not to remember political affiliations, but to honour lives committed to community and service.

00:46:46The Holy Book reminds us in Galatians 6 verse 9, and I quote. It says, let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Close quote. Indeed, Speaker, these councillors did not grow weary in serving their communities. They stood in difficult spaces, carried the burdens of residents, and worked worked to make society better in the ways

00:47:16they knew best. And again, when we refer back to the Holy Book, in Ecclesiastes 3 verse 1 to 2, it says, to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven, a time to be born and a time to die. Close quote. While we may struggle to understand why lives are cut short, Speaker, we take comfort in knowing that their lives carried purpose and impact.

00:47:49To both families, the friends, the colleagues and political families of Councillor Tshedo and Councillor Simelane, please know that your pain is shared across this chamber. We pray that the Lord Almighty grant you strength, comfort and peace during this incredibly difficult time. As public representatives, may we also reflect deeply on the fragility of life and the responsibility we carry as servants of the people. Let us strive to lead with compassion,

00:48:22humility and dignity, because our time here it is temporary, but the impact we leave behind in our communities is often lasting. On behalf of the Democratic Alliance, I extend our sincere and deepest condolences to the EFF, the ANC, and most importantly to the bereaved families. May the souls of Councillor Tshedo and Councillor Simelane rest in eternal peace. Thank you very much, Speaker.

ActionSA condolences to the Simelane family

00:48:53Thank you, Councillor Sifumba. We now call on Councillor T Mposula from the from ActionSA.

00:49:28Greetings, Madam Speaker, greetings to the Simelane and the Tshedo families, all protocol observed. Madam Speaker, as ActionSA, we are really saddened by the passing of our colleagues. I'm going to speak on behalf of ActionSA um and direct my condolences to the Simelane family as my colleague has already spoken

00:49:58to the Tshedo family. We were really shocked when we received the news of um Councillor Simelane's passing, as we are serving together in Soweto, and when we received the message, I then called um Councillor Thapelo Radebe to say that I've just received this sad news. Is it true? And indeed, he confirmed

00:50:29that Councillor Simelane was no more. And we were really shocked to say that such a young and vibrant councillor, how can he depart so soon? And we got to understand that we are really living on borrowed time. We are saying to the family,

00:50:49isiZuluakwehlanga lungehlanga.

00:50:51May the Lord comfort you. I'm reminded of the words that were spoken by David in the book of Psalms, chapter 90, verse 12. I quote.

00:51:03Teach me how to number my days so that I may gain the heart of wisdom. Close quote. That simply tells us that we are not here permanently. A time will come for us to depart. And Councillor Simelane used his time effectively. He lived a purpose-driven life. He worked tirelessly for the community as a Ward 19.

00:51:37And the community was really saddened by his sudden departure. But what I like about our God is that as mankind, we were given

00:51:4910 seconds left.

00:51:50the promise of resurrection. We were given time, but God is not controlled by time. That is why Jesus said, a time will come, and now is the time when true worshippers will worship in truth and in spirit. It simply means He does not move from the past to the present. He does not move from the present to the future. He's in the past, the present and the future at the same time. And Councillor Simelane has transcended the present time. May his soul rest in peace.

IFP condolences

00:52:26Thank you, Councillor. We now move on to Councillor D Manganyi from the Inkatha Freedom Party.

00:52:42Madam Councillor, Madam Speaker, fellow councillors, leadership of the EFF and the ANC, friends and families of our late councillors, on behalf of the Inkatha Freedom Party, we extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of our fellow councillors. Today's memorial service brings together two painful losses, the late Councillor Simelane of Ward 19 and Councillor Tshedo. Their departures have saddened all of us across political line because beyond party colours, we have lost human beings, colleagues and a dedicated servant of our communities.claim

00:53:18What makes these losses even more painful is the reminder of how fragile life truly is. We often continue our daily responsibilities believing there will still be another opportunity to meet, to laugh together, to debate in council chambers, and to continue serving our people side by side. Sadly, that opportunity was taken from us far too soon. I remember Councillor Tshedo had personally shared with me details about her birthday celebration long before the posters were even distributed.

00:53:50The excitement in her face never leaves my mind. It was as if she knew it was her last birthday. And unfortunately for me, I could not make it, believing there will still be another opportunity, another celebration, another moment to share laughter. Like many of us, we assume time is still on our side. Had I known that would have become part of our final memories with her, I would have dropped everything for one last dance. I will always remember her warmth,emotive

00:54:22humor and vibrant spirit. I used to tease her, jokingly asking whether she was not one of those grannies

00:54:29isiZuluabakhuphayo,

00:54:31sharing stories about women her age, and she would simply laugh it off without offense. In fact, she would proudly remind she proudly reminded me how youthful she looked for her age, and truly, she did. That ability to laugh freely and embrace life with confidence spoke volume about the kind of person she was. Although I did not know Councillor Simelane as closely on a personal level,

00:54:55the impact he had on those around him speak for itself. The IFP branch chairperson, Mr. Mazibuko, had this to say about him. I quote, what touched me what touched me about Councillor Simelane is that he never he he never looked at political differences. Even though I'm an IFP member, he never treated me differently. To him, I was a first community member, a human being deserving of respect and kindness.

00:55:25That shows the type of leader and person he was, someone who believed in unity, peace and working together for the good of the people. Close quote. For us, that speaks volume about the kind of leaders they were, individuals who embraced life, valued people and carried themselves with dignity and commitment. Today serves as a serves as a painful reminder that leadership is not only about debates, motions and political differences. It is about it is also about human connections we build in these chambers.

00:55:58Despite our ideological differences, moments like this remind us that we share one responsibility, to serve our people and to value one another while we still can. On behalf of the Inkatha Freedom Party again, we convey we convey our sincere condolences to the families of the departed and Economic Freedom the Economic Freedom Fighters and the African National Congress, their loved ones, and every community member whose lives they have touched. May God grant their families strength during this difficult time,

00:56:30and may their souls rest in eternal peace.

00:56:33XitsongaNdzi khensile swinene,

00:56:34Speaker.emotive

Patriotic Alliance condolences

00:56:35Thank you so much, Councillor Manganyi. Councillor K Pitso from the Patriotic Alliance.

00:56:54SesothoKe rata ho dumedisa difemeli tse hlokahaletsweng, femeli ya Simelane le femeli ya Tshedo, ka lebitso le matla la Morena Jesu Kreste a phelang, Amen.emotive

00:57:04Greetings to you, Madam Speaker, greetings to the Executive Mayor, the Deputy Mayor in their absence, fellow councillors, um and guests, also in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I'd like to take this time to shine a light on the fact that one of the greatest honours a person can ever have is to serve their nation and residents. It is great honour in a calling for serving something that is bigger than yourself, something that positively changes the lives of people.

00:57:37And these very same chambers became a platform for both councillors to do just that. Councillor Simelane and Councillor Tshedo received an opportunity to serve the residents of the City of Joburg, and they did so with pride and enthusiasm. Councillor Simelane and Councillor Tshedo have left a legacy that will outlive them. Their contribution in this council in terms of giving inputs on how this city can well-managed cannot be overlooked. Their impact on the ground in the different wards they served in will not be forgotten. The fight of Councillor Tshedo for economic freedomemotive

00:58:10in this lifetime will not be forgotten. The fight for Councillor Simelane for a better life for all will not be forsaken. And with those words, I would like to declare that may the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, situation and seasons, rest upon the two families. May the families be united in love during this season, and may you know that this council will forever love and cherish the son and the daughter which came from you, the son and the daughter which you gave to this city so that our residentsemotive

00:58:42can be well served. May peace be with you.emotive

00:58:45isiZuluAsibonge.emotive

UDM condolences

00:58:47Thank you, Councillor Pitso. Councillor Y Zigebe from the UDM.

00:59:06Madam Speaker, all protocol observed. Today, this council gathers with heavy hearts. We are reminded once more that public service is not merely about occupying seats in this chamber, but about lives dedicated to people, to communities, and to causes greater than ourselves. We mourn not only colleagues, but servants of the people whose absence will be felt in these chambers, in committee rooms, and most importantly, in the communities they served with dedication.

00:59:37Allow me, Madam Speaker, to pay tribute to these gallant public representatives whose passing leaves a deep void in the City of Johannesburg. Madam Speaker, we pay tribute to Councillor Joyce Tshedo of the Economic Freedom Fighters. She was not merely a member of council, she was a committed grassroots servant of the people of Alexandra, a community that carries

01:00:00Pardon me, that carries both the rich spirit and painful burdens of our country's inequality. She understood the cries of ordinary residents because she walked amongst them daily. She did not serve from a distance. She served from within the lived realities of the people. In the Section 79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities, where many of us had the honour of working alongside her, Councillor Tshedo distinguished herself through commitment, consistency,

01:00:30and courage. She approached committee work with seriousness and humanity. She understood that oversight is not a political performance, but is a responsibility towards the vulnerable, the excluded and the voiceless. Madam Speaker, there are councillors who speak loudly, and there are councillors whose work speaks for them. Councillor Mama Joyce belonged to the latter category. Her contributions were grounded, thoughtful, and always directed towards improving the lives of residents.

01:00:58She represented her organisation with conviction, but never lost sight of the greater obligation we all share as public representatives, the obligation to serve humanity. Alexandra has lost a daughter of the soil. The EFF has lost a committed cadre. This Council has lost a dedicated councillor, and many of us in GEYODI have lost a colleague whose presence brought warmth, discipline and purpose. To her family, loved ones, the EFF and the people of Alexandra, we extend

01:01:28our deepest condolences as the United Democratic Movement. May they find strength in knowing that her life carried meaning, impact and service. The UDM bids farewell and we say a good spiritual journey, Mama Joyce. We also pay tribute to Councillor Simelane of the African National Congress. Councillor Simelane represented a generation of young leaders whose energy, commitment and passion reminded us that the future of local government still carries a promise. He was youthful, energetic,

01:01:58and driven by a visible desire to contribute meaningfully to society. Madam Speaker, it is always painful when a life dedicated to public service is cut short, because beyond mourning the individual, we also mourn the potential, the future contributions, and the leadership that still had much to offer society. To the African National Congress, his family, friends, comrades and all those whose lives he touched, the UDM conveys our heartfelt condolences. May they find comfort

01:02:28in the memories of Councillor Simelane, who carried himself with energy, commitment and a willingness to serve his people. Madam Speaker, death reminds us all of the temporary nature of our political positions, our titles and our differences. What ultimately remains is the impact we leave on human lives. May the lives of Councillor Joyce Tshedo and Councillor Simelane remind all of us in this chamber that leadership must always be rooted in service, humility,

01:02:58and commitment to the people. May their souls rest in peace. Thank you.

Speaker's remarks and the ritual of removing names

01:03:03Thank you so much Councillor Zigebe. It's three months later we gather again in this Special Council Meeting, not merely to mourn, but to honour lives of two of our councillors, Councillor Joyce Tshedo, born on the 26th April 1961,

01:03:29and Councillor Simphiwe Oscar Simelane, born on the 1st of March 1987. To the bereaved families, thank you for being here today. We do not take your presence lightly. We understand that the pain is still fresh. Please know that behind all our tears is a shared sorrow,

01:03:58and in our collective mourning begins the slow, difficult process of healing. Today we reflect not only on what we have lost, but what we have gained from the lives of these councillors respectively. Their death are a real loss, as we will never see these councillors again. They will never spend sleepless nights worrying about service delivery issues

01:04:29and challenges that communities are faced with, but their spears must be picked up to continue where they have left off. Their memories are our responsibility, and we must ensure that the light they lit in so many hearts do not fade, but burns even brighter. Let this be our collective vow to keep the flame of their courage alive in our homes,

01:04:59our council chamber, our communities, and our city. On behalf of the City of Johannesburg, we continue to extend our heartfelt condolences to both the families. We understand how difficult this time must be for you as you grieve the loss of a beloved one. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.

01:05:31Fellow councillors, family and friends, on the 5th of November 2021, Councillor Tshedo was sworn in as a PR councillor representing the Economic Freedom Fighters with commitment and integrity. She was eventually allocated that very seat in Council

01:06:01where her name was always proudly displayed every time she attended council meetings, a constant reminder of her presence, her voice, and her unwavering service. She was a full-time member of the Section 79 Committee on GEYODI, as you've just heard from the chairperson of GEYODI. Tragically,

01:06:31on the 7th of May 2026, Councillor Tshedo passed away. A funeral service was held on the 16th of May 2026. In addition, Councillor Simelane was amongst the 270

01:07:01councillors who were sworn in on the 5th of November 2021. He was the ward councillor of Ward 19, who represented his political party, the African National Congress, with commitment and integrity. He was eventually allocated the seat over there in Council, where his name was also proudly displayed every time he attended council meetings.

01:07:33It is a constant reminder of his presence, his voice, and his unwavering service. He was also a full-time member of the Section 79 Committee on Governance. Sadly, on the 12th of May 2026, Councillor Simelane passed away after a short illness. His funeral service

01:08:01was held on the 16th of May 2026. Today, the council flag with a coat of arms is placed on their seats, and their names are being represented by the pillar candles and flowers, symbolising that they will never attend

01:08:31council meeting again. We have honoured them. We've received tributes and we've made by all political parties present, and we thank you, political parties. This council meeting is also being held to officially remove their names in this chamber, a protocol ritual known as ukusula igama,

01:09:02or to erase a name. Sad as it is for all of us, this is a reality that we have to accept.

Comments by the families

01:13:41We will now have comments by family representatives.

01:13:50We will now call on Mr Tito Zwane, representing the Simelane family.

01:14:07Thank you, Madam Speaker. Honourable councillors, and the house at large. As we all know, in times like these, words seem very small. However, our coming here

01:14:38and your words have uplifted our spirits. We now feel that there are other people who have carried this burden with us. Simphiwe Simelane was still very young, and a lot

01:15:08was still expected from him, but now he's gone. As a family, we have to accept what we can't change. We know that as a people, horrible things happen to other people, but when it happens to you, it becomes different.

01:15:37But we appreciate very, very much what Council has done for us today. We don't feel alone anymore, and we've seen that this is a practice in Council. They do it more to other people as well, and that is not taken for granted. It is appreciated. We're now feeling lighter.

01:16:08For Mama Tshedo as well, I'm sure the family will feel the same. Not going to speak on their behalf, but we really appreciate. We'll tell their stories to their children, and they will know that these are the people who dedicated their lives to serving the people, something that many of us never did.

01:16:39Indeed, being a councillor is a thankless job. You have to have been made of sterner stuff for you to be able to carry that job. And we thank all of you as councillors for having chosen this type of job. This thing has brought us nearer to see. When you see from far, you don't quite appreciate,

01:17:10but now we do. Thank you once more very much, Madam Speaker, Council, the Mayor in his absentia, and the house at large. We thank you. Thank you.

01:17:25Thank you so much, sir. We now call on Mr Morris, representing the Tshedo family.

01:17:56SesothoDumelang,

01:17:59Madam Speaker, Office of the Mayor, Councillors.

01:18:08SetswanaO a emeng mo ke morwa kae, o romilwe ke baga Tshedo. Baga Tshedo ba le leboha le le Khansele. Ba le leboha ba re e se ka ba ka moo di dirahalang matsi di fela. Le ba batlang

01:18:27a duty and function of a councillor

01:18:31Setswanaakere ke

01:18:32service delivery. Joyce,

01:18:35Setswanabe ke mametse ka moka ha lena ha le bua le bua ka Joyce le bua ka Simelane. Le bua ka mesebetsi e mentle e be ba e etsa akere. Le lena le e etse. Se ka la e etsa le e etsetsa gore le tlhokofale, le e etse gore le re hodise. Marema, mantswe a hao rena a re agha. Ke leboha poem e be e le nyela akere. Modimo a be le lena. Re leboha ka gore le ile la re tshwarela Joyce.

01:19:07SetswanaKa nnete, Joyce, mebereko ya hae ge re ka bua ka yona ko Alexandra ke mengata. Ba ga Simelane, re utlwile ka tsa ngwana wa lona. Ke ra gore Modimo mo ba Simelane le ba Tshedo, re re dudu.

01:19:33Thank you so much, sir.

Announcements and closure

01:19:37We now move to announcements and closure.

01:19:42Once again, we want to thank the families for allowing us to have you with us today. We will still repeat that your hurt is our hurt. We've lost two of our own. As some councillors have said, we become like a family, although we sit on opposite seats, but we do appreciate each other. Councillors,

01:20:11when we adjourn, we come back at 12:30 for our budget. To those people in the gallery, if you have not reserved a seat for the budget, you will not be allowed in. We have limited space for people that have reserved their seats.

01:20:41The SDC will give us the process of how we will be moving out now. Thank you, SDC. And please, councillors, do sign a register, the second register for the budget. The first one was for this, the second one is for the budget. Thank you.