Wednesday, 24 June 2026 · 7 h 56 min · 3 videos · 2021–2026 council
38th Ordinary Council Meeting, Day 1
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 (28)
- ◯Quorum count (3)
- ‖Adjourned or paused (4)
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.
On Day 1 of the 38th Ordinary Council Meeting, council approved a run of metro trading reform reports for City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup, mostly by voice vote. 04:59:50 05:13:13 05:34:09 05:47:45 05:56:19 06:07:23 06:26:38 07:31:16 On item 71, the DA disputed the voice vote, and a division of the house showed 100 for, 53 against and 3 abstentions, so the item was carried. 05:34:09 The DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84 to items 69, 70, 72, 73, 74, 75 and 85, repeatedly objecting that the reports had not gone through Section 79 oversight committees. 04:57:27 04:59:50 05:09:29 05:13:13 05:47:45 05:56:19 06:07:23 06:26:38 07:31:16
In an urgent debate requested by Cllr Meyers on Eskom's threat to cut power to several substations, the Deputy Executive Mayor promised dedicated City Power and Eskom workstreams. 00:01:42 01:03:52 01:08:03 01:14:42 The Speaker closed the debate under Rule 99 and ruled against Cllr Christians' objection that the proposer had a right of reply. 01:18:49 01:21:44
The system shut down, leaving screens black and streaming stopped, and the Speaker ruled the meeting would continue without screens, recorded on Teams, despite Cllr Christians' objection. 01:46:52 01:54:53 02:16:15 A quorum count found 146 signed in but 136 in the chamber, a later count found 143, and 42 items remain for the next day at 10:00. 00:04:13 06:20:49 07:54:04
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 carries Auckland Park motion 104 for, 58 against and De Beer Street renaming
In brief
- 28 decisions: 21 approved, 7 noted or other.
- 13 promises on record, including: The city will set up dedicated workstreams between City Power and Eskom on turnaround actions, loss reduction, metering and City Power's financial sustainability.
- 4 quorum counts.
- 78 apologies read out. Not present when called: 8; Warned or stopped by the chair: 12; Sound or equipment problem: 18; Not ready when called: 1; Question withdrawn: 2.
Chapters
68What was discussed, in order. Click a time to watch.
- 00:01:42
Opening of the 38th Ordinary Council Meeting
The Speaker opens the meeting and welcomes office-bearers, officials and guests. She announces three additional items (87, 90 and 91) added to the agenda. She also says she has agreed to a debate on a matter of urgent public importance requested by Cllr Meyers.
Report an error - 00:04:13
Quorum count and attendance register
The Speaker allows 10 minutes to count councillors against the register. Movement in the chamber makes counting difficult. The register shows 131 and later 146 signed in, but only 136 physically present are needed and about 10 are outside. The Speaker proceeds on the basis of the register.
Report an error - 00:21:58
Applications for leave of absence
Written apologies are read out, followed by apologies from the ANC, EFF, IFP, PA, DA, FF+, ActionSA and ACDP caucuses. They cover ill health, party business, late arrivals and early departures. The Speaker asks the house to move quickly because many councillors are leaving early and quorum is fragile, and the apologies are noted.
ArnoldsAICNdlelaANCMaseraDADe LangeFF+MunyayiActionSARohlssenACDPAbdool
Report an error - 00:30:00
Official notices and Executive Mayor's statement
The Speaker wishes councillors with May and June birthdays well. The Deputy Executive Mayor reports that there are no statements from the Executive Mayor.
Report an error - 00:30:44
Confirmation of minutes
Minutes of the 48th to 51st Extraordinary meetings, the 11th Special meeting and the 37th Ordinary meeting are tabled. The DA has no changes but raises missing speakers for items 69 to 85. The ACDP asks that a sentence in the 20-21 May minutes be corrected from 'taken for granted' to 'granted'. The minutes are adopted with that adjustment.
ArnoldsAICFourie-ShaweDAMkhonzaACDP
Report an error - 00:33:56
Written questions, tabling of recommendations and elevation of items
The Deputy Executive Mayor and the Chair of Chairs say written replies are loaded on the drive. They table the executive and legislature recommendations. The Deputy Executive Mayor asks to elevate items 62, 66, 68-75, 82, 83 and 85, and the Chair of Chairs asks to elevate item 61. The Speaker confirms these will be taken first.
ArnoldsAICLoyiso MasukuANCMaremaANC
Report an error - 00:38:46
DA request for a 15-minute caucus
A DA councillor asks for a 15-minute caucus. The Speaker grants it for all parties, warning that quorum is fragile, and sets 10:55 as the return time.
Report an error - 01:02:25
Return from caucus
The Speaker complains that members returned after about 20 minutes instead of 15. Cllr Avant-Smith says the DA is ready to continue. The Speaker says she will keep counting to protect the quorum.
Report an error - 01:03:52
Urgent debate on Eskom substation cut-offs: speakers list
The debate is on the current and continued threat by Eskom to switch off electricity to several substations. No speakers were submitted, so the Speaker takes hands and adds Cllr Meyers (proposer), Cllr Boer and Cllr Nkonyeni. A brief exchange follows about councillors outside and ActionSA.
ArnoldsAICAvant-SmithBoerFF+NkonyeniActionSA
Report an error - 01:08:03
Eskom debate: Cllr Meyers (DA) as proposer
Cllr Meyers says Eskom plans to cut power to the Crowthorne, Allandale, Beyers Naude and Fordsburg substations over unpaid debt. He says the Mayor's assurances on 26 May were contradicted, and the DA handed in a 5,000-signature petition. Eskom extended the date to 17 July. He asks the executive to explain its plan to protect about 100,000 residents.
Report an error - 01:10:29
Eskom debate: Cllr Boer (FF+)
Cllr Boer says the executive has been reluctant to share information on the payment agreement and the Eskom debt. He says the city's financial statements show the Eskom debt did not increase between 2024 and 2025. He asks why Johannesburg is in the news over a R5.3 billion debt when other Gauteng metros owe more, and calls for clarification.
Report an error - 01:12:26
Eskom debate: Cllr Nkonyeni (ActionSA)
Cllr Nkonyeni says the threatened cuts show the failure of the government of the day and the GNU. He asks what plan exists to pay the arrears and what guarantee residents have against being left without power in winter. He says residents should not be punished for the city's mismanagement.
Report an error - 01:14:42
IT query and Deputy Executive Mayor's reply on Eskom
Cllr Belinda Echeozonjoku asks about IT problems with mics and screens. The Deputy Executive Mayor says engagements with Eskom have been constructive and that dedicated City Power and Eskom workstreams will be set up. She says outstanding matters will be finalised before the deadlines and rejects Cllr Boer's claim that the payment agreement is unknown, since council approved it.
EcheozonjokuDALoyiso MasukuANC
Report an error - 01:18:49
Closure of the Eskom debate under Rule 99
The Speaker declares the debate closed under Rule 99 and refuses further interventions amid heckling. Cllr Christians later complains that the proposer had a right to reply under Rule 98(2). The Speaker says it was a debate and not a motion, and that the proposer had given her a thumbs up.
Report an error - 01:20:15
Item 61: UIFW expenditure April 2026, tabling
Item 61 asks council to certify as irrecoverable and regularise irregular and unauthorised expenditure for April 2026. The MPAC chair is absent, so Cllr Mosehla tables the item. ACDP's Cllr Harris has not arrived and the ACDP skips its turn.
Report an error - 01:21:44
Item 61: Cllr Boer (FF+) and procedural dispute
The Speaker declines to let Cllr Christians raise a point before Cllr Boer has spoken. Christians then explains he wanted to object that the debate was closed without the proposer's reply, and the Speaker defends her handling. Cllr Boer welcomes MPAC's work but objects to writing off R521 million (Piotrans) and the Sizwe Africa IT contract without consequence management. FF+ will not be a blanket rubber stamp.
Report an error - 01:27:45
Item 61: Cllr Xulu (ActionSA)
Cllr Xulu says ActionSA supports the item but does not celebrate regularisation. The report covers 42 investigation reports, over R876 million in historical irregular expenditure and over R41 million in unauthorised expenditure. He calls for consequence management and implementation of every recommendation, and says ActionSA under Herman Mashaba would rebuild a capable administration.
Report an error - 01:33:26
Item 61: Cllr Suddaby (DA)
Cllr Suddaby says the report's Recommendation 1 misstates the years covered. She says only about R8 million relates to 2010 to 2016 and the balance comes from 2022 to 2026. She says missing records for old matters show the city has no document retention policy, which National Treasury requires by 30 June or the July 2026 equitable share tranche is at risk. Her speech is cut off by time.
Report an error - 01:41:52
Item 61: MPAC report presented by Cllr Mazibuko
Cllr Mazibuko presents the MPAC report. It relied on sworn affidavits for historical cases, following National Treasury guidance. The committee reviewed 42 investigative reports containing 63 recommendations and agreed with 49 of them. He says writing off does not condone non-compliance, and he moves adoption.
MazibukoANC
Report an error - 01:46:52
Item 61: EFF contribution and IT outage announced
The Speaker confirms that Cllr Mosehla may speak for the EFF and then close as acting MPAC chair. She announces that IT needs 10 minutes after this item to fix the system, which has stopped streaming, and council agrees. Cllr Mosehla says the EFF supports the item but demands accountability and consequence management. He calls for building the city's internal capacity.
Report an error - 01:52:06
Item 61: closing remarks and adoption
Cllr Mosehla, as acting committee chair, closes by saying the item was debated in committee and members agreed to send it to council. The Speaker puts the recommendations to the house and says the yeses have it. Cllr Christians records the DA's opposition under Rule 84.
MosehlaEFFChristiansDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 01:54:53
IT break
The Speaker calls a 10-minute break from 11:56 to 12:06 so IT can fix black screens and the streaming system. Whips are asked to bring members back on time. From 02:13:32 to 02:15:23 the transcript contains unrelated film-style dialogue, not council proceedings.
Report an error - 02:16:15
Decision to continue without screens; recording concerns
The Speaker reports that IT needs 30 minutes to an hour. The house signals it prefers to carry on without screens, and she rules that the meeting continues. Cllr Christians objects that proper recordings are not available, and the Speaker says proceedings are being recorded on Teams. Cllr Sifumba asks whether caucuses and the public will get copies and is told they will.
ArnoldsAICChristiansDASifumbaDA
Report an error - 02:20:39
Item 62: UIFW prevention strategy, Cllr Boer (FF+)
Item 62 is the updated strategy for preventing and reducing unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure, aligned to National Treasury Circular 111. Cllr Boer says the document is good but 'paper is patient' without implementation. He says about 90% of the city's UIFW is unauthorised expenditure that could be regularised through adjustment budgets. He indicates FF+ will support the strategy.
Report an error - 02:24:06
Item 62: Cllr Steenkamp (PA)
Cllr Steenkamp says UIFW is a service delivery and moral issue and that wasted money has a human cost. She calls for courage, accountability and a culture of compliance. The Speaker cuts her off when her time runs out.
SteenkampPA
Report an error - 02:27:23
Item 62: Cllr Wax (DA)
Cllr Wax says the strategy did not go through the Governance Oversight Committee and the implementation plan is still a draft. He says its targets are not backed by resources, and that the reduction in the balance came from regularisation, not prevention. He cites the opening balance of R23.6 billion. The DA rejects the report.
Report an error - 02:35:48
Item 62: Cllr Xulu (ActionSA) for Cllr Modukanene
Cllr Xulu speaks in place of Cllr Modukanene, who is on leave. ActionSA supports the spirit of the strategy but doubts the administration's ability to implement it, noting the draft implementation plan is still under development. He blames the ANC and its enablers for the roughly R24 billion UIFW accumulation. The Speaker then calls Cllr Mosehla (EFF).
Report an error - 02:41:30
Item 62: UIFWE strategy – EFF and ANC debate
An EFF councillor cited roughly R23.6bn in unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure by 2023/24 and a further R3.6bn this year. The speaker supported the updated strategy but demanded time-bound investigations, disciplinary action, recovery of money and criminal referrals. An ANC councillor also backed the strategy, called for monthly and quarterly reports to council, and urged faster consequence management and implementation of MFMA provisions.
MosehlaEFF1 unidentified
Also discussed: Items 18 and 19: In-year financial reports (June and July 2026), first speakers (30 September 2026)
Report an error - 02:52:07
Chamber sound problems and rats
Cllr Echeozonjoku asked that IT check the chamber wiring after sound failures, suggesting rats might have eaten the cords. The Speaker said IT was checking and asked councillors to stop bringing food into the chamber.
Report an error - 02:53:12
Item 62: MMC reply and item agreed
The Deputy Executive Mayor said the report was withdrawn in May so councillors could engage and an extension was sought from National Treasury. She criticised the DA for shifting goalposts by asking for Oversight Committee review after the MPAC referral. She described the strategy as a living document aligned to Treasury Circular 111. The Speaker then put the item and it was agreed.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 02:58:42
DA Rule 84 objection after item 62
As the Speaker began announcing item 66, Cllr Christians intervened to record the DA's objection under Rule 84. The objection came directly after item 62 was agreed.
Report an error - 02:59:12
Item 66: Financial Turnaround Framework – FF+ and ACDP
Item 66 is the Financial Turnaround Framework. Cllr Boer (FF+) praised the document but said it must also address the culture of non-payment, especially in Regions D and G, and corruption in City Power. Cllr Mkhonza (ACDP) supported the framework's principles, said implementation is what matters, and said the ACDP would monitor the six pillars.
Report an error - 03:05:41
Item 66: DA supports framework
Cllr Santana (DA) cited cash coverage, a R73.7bn debtors book, water and electricity losses and an infrastructure backlog above R200bn. He welcomed the sweeping-arrangement reform, the recognition of unfunded mandates and the new Pillar 7 on a personnel expenditure and staff establishment audit. He said the DA supports the item but will exercise rigorous oversight of implementation.
Report an error - 03:13:33
Item 66: ActionSA supports with criticism
Cllr Edward (ActionSA) described the report's figures as an admission of failure and compared them with the 2016-2019 administration under Herman Mashaba. She criticised reliance on short-term borrowing and said the Government of Local Unity has mastered managing decline. ActionSA will support the report and monitor implementation closely.
Report an error - 03:18:47
Item 66: EFF position
Cllr Zitha (EFF) welcomed the report's honesty but asked what turnaround means while communities lack water, electricity and sanitation. The EFF supports better revenue collection and loss reduction without punishing poor communities, and called for accountability measures and for recovered funds to go back into maintenance. Her time ran out before she finished.
Report an error - 03:23:14
Item 66: ANC supports framework
Cllr Ngema (ANC) called the strategy the blueprint Johannesburg needs, praising the six pillars, the hybrid revenue-sharing model starting with Johannesburg Water on 1 July 2026, and the single implementation tracker. He credited the Executive Mayor and Deputy Mayor and referred to a R3.8bn loan. He accused the DA and ActionSA of political theatre.
Report an error - 03:30:22
Item 66: Deputy Mayor reply and item agreed
The Deputy Executive Mayor responded to the speakers and told Cllr Edward that the city's problems began in 2016 under Herman Mashaba, including the wage bill. The Speaker then asked whether item 66 was agreed and moved on to item 68.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 03:31:57
Item 68: SDAs and SLAs under Metro Trading Reform – speaking order
Item 68 covers the revised service delivery and service level agreements of City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup. Cllr Harris asked to be moved to third on the speakers' list. A DA councillor said he was speaking in place of Cllr Bittkau.
HarrisACDP1 unidentified
Report an error - 03:33:04
Item 68: DA concern about missing oversight
The DA speaker described the new service level agreements and the Joint Revenue Management Committee. He welcomed them but objected that oversight committees had not been allowed to scrutinise the documents against the Metro Trading Reforms. He warned that if Treasury is not satisfied it could delay the city's access to funding. The recording then jumps from 03:35:52 to 04:46:59.
1 unidentified
Report an error - 04:46:59
Item 68: EFF welcomes revised agreements
Cllr Radebe (EFF) said the city must honour its obligations to pay for services rendered and that the EFF welcomes the revised SLAs and SDAs of the three entities.
RadebeEFF
Report an error - 04:47:43
Speaking order dispute and ANC speaker begins
The Speaker called Cllr Ngwenya (ANC) forward. Cllr Harris asked repeatedly not to be forgotten as the third speaker, and the Speaker said she would bring him in. Cllr Ngwenya began with greetings but was interrupted by microphone problems.
NgwenyaANCHarrisACDP
Report an error - 04:48:38
Microphone interference
The Speaker asked all councillors to switch off or lift their microphones to find one that was causing interference. Cllr Da Rocha was singled out to lift his microphone before the speaker was told to carry on.
Report an error - 04:52:18
Item 69: concerns on Johannesburg Water plan
A speaker said the revised plan projects higher water demand, with forgone savings of about R209 million from buying more bulk water from Rand Water. He added that collection rates were cut from 77.8% to 74.8% and the financial sustainability target was delayed. He objected that council was asked to approve a plan whose total implementation cost was not yet finalised. The segment is the continuation of an item whose start is not in the transcript.
1 unidentified
Also discussed: UDM's Cllr Zigebe on infrastructure and trading services reform (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 04:54:02
Item 69: EFF supports with concern
Cllr Khonkhobe (EFF) supported the report but warned of a R26.6bn infrastructure backlog, non-revenue water above 44%, falling collection levels and the effect of water shortages on businesses and households. The EFF rejects a slow response and called for more investment, faster pipe replacement and action on illegal connections and vandalism.
Report an error - 04:57:27
Item 69: DA says no Section 79 scrutiny
Cllr Bittkau (DA) said the report had not gone through a Section 79 committee and was being rushed. He argued a 90-day extension could be obtained from national government and said the DA could not support it.
Report an error - 04:58:41
Item 69: MMC reply on 30 June deadline
The Deputy Executive Mayor said National Treasury would not grant an extension because the deadline for the reforms is 30 June. She said the documents are living documents and the reforms apply to all metros regardless of the government of the day.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 04:59:50
Item 69 put to council and DA opposition
The Speaker put the recommendations on page 69.6 and the item was agreed. Cllr Christians then recorded the DA's opposition under Rule 84 and reserved the DA's right to take the matter further.
Report an error - 05:00:25
Item 70: City Power Trading Reform Strategy – FF+, ACDP, ActionSA
Item 70 is the City Power Trading Reform Strategy for 2026-27 and its Business Investment Plan. Cllr Boer withdrew his speeches on items 70 and 72 because the reports had not served at Section 79. Cllr Harris (ACDP) criticised R164 million spent on consultants and noted the report. An ActionSA councillor speaking on behalf of Cllr Modukanene used his time to campaign for ActionSA and criticise the PA, then noted the report.
BoerFF+HarrisACDP1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:05:27
Item 70: EFF and ANC
Cllr Khonkhobe (EFF) supported the report, citing City Power's R44bn backlog, R3.1bn operating deficit and R5.7bn annual losses, and criticised reliance on consultants. Cllr Mutavhatsindi (ANC) said the ANC notes the report.
Also discussed: DA on Section 71 reports (25 June 2026) · Items 1 and 2: ANC on the Section 71 reports (26 August 2026) · Items 1 and 2: DA on city finances (26 August 2026)
Report an error - 05:09:29
Item 70: DA opposes
Cllr Steenkamp (DA) said the DA backs the objectives but not the plan, citing unproven targets, thin treatment of Eskom risks, implementation doubts and the lack of Section 79 scrutiny. The DA said it would vote against item 70.
SteenkampDA
Report an error - 05:13:13
Item 70: MMC reply and item agreed over DA opposition
The Deputy Executive Mayor said the report builds on the earlier City Power turnaround strategy and seeks approval of the business and investment plan under National Treasury Guidance Note 5. The Speaker ruled that the yeses had it despite noes, and the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84.
MasukuANC
Report an error - 05:16:11
Announcement about lost ID
The Speaker told those in the gallery that a Mojalefa Peter Botlokwane had lost his ID and wallet, and asked him to identify himself to collect them.
Report an error - 05:16:44
Item 71: Metro Trading Services Reforms – Minimum Access Indicator M6
Item 71 is the Metro Trading Services Reforms Program on the M6 Budget Support indicator. Cllr Mkhonza (ACDP) welcomed the programme and cited benchmarks: zero months' cash coverage, 87.7% collection, 32% non-revenue water and about 30% electricity losses. Cllr Nkonyeni (ActionSA) supported the reforms but said approval is only a first step. An ANC councillor then said the ANC notes the report, where this part of the transcript ends.
MkhonzaACDPNkonyeniActionSA1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:22:47
Item 71: ActionSA and EFF on the trading reform programme
The sitting resumes mid-debate on item 71. An ActionSA speaker supports the programme's objectives and calls for rigorous council oversight of implementation. The EFF notes the report, welcomes the investment, and calls for results, accountability and regular reporting to council.
ZithaEFF1 unidentified
Report an error - 05:28:19
Item 71: ANC notes report; DA rejects item and seeks referral to committees
The ANC notes the report. The DA says it supports the goals of reform but rejects item 71 because it did not go through the Section 79 oversight and joint committees. The DA asks that the matter be referred back to those structures.
Report an error - 05:34:09
Item 71: reply, division of the house and result
MMC Masuku asks council to approve the report. The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA demanded a roll call under Rule 86(1). The Speaker called it a division of the house and counted hands: 100 for, 53 against, 3 abstentions, so the item was carried. The DA recorded its opposition, calling the item premature.
MasukuChristiansDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 05:47:45
Item 72: Johannesburg Water performance improvement action plan v2
The ACDP notes and accepts the plan. The EFF gives cautious support and stresses outcomes over documents. The DA's Cllr Bittkau opposes it because it did not go through Section 79 and loads costs onto residents. The Deputy Executive Mayor asks for approval, and the Speaker ruled the yeses had it. The DA recorded its opposition.
HarrisACDPBoerFF+KhonkhobeEFFBittkauDAMasukuChristiansDA
Also discussed: Item 1: Cllr Meyers (DA) on water and electricity (28 May 2026)
Report an error - 05:56:19
Item 73: City Power Trading Reform Strategy 2026-27 (PIAP V2)
The ACDP notes and accepts the report, ActionSA notes it, and the EFF supports it with a focus on Zandspruit and working-class communities. The DA's Cllr Steenkamp opposes it because it bypassed the Section 79 committee. MMC Masuku asks for approval, the yeses carried, and the DA recorded its opposition.
BiniActionSAMkasiEFFSteenkampDAMasukuChristiansDA1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:07:23
Item 74: Pikitup Performance Improvement Action Plan
The ACDP supports the plan but warns about landfill space and the absence of waste-to-energy plans. ActionSA raises uncollected refuse, illegal dumping and weak bylaw enforcement. The EFF supports it with warnings on insourcing and accountability. The DA objects to the lack of Section 79 scrutiny. Cllr Mposula raised a quorum concern, and the Speaker asked to finish the item first. The yeses carried and the DA recorded its opposition.
HarrisACDPMunyayiActionSAMkasiEFFMposulaActionSAMeyersDAMasukuChristiansDA
Report an error - 06:20:49
Quorum check
After item 74 the Speaker asked councillors to stay seated and counted them door to door. She announced a count of 143 and that council was still quorate.
Report an error - 06:26:38
Item 75: reviewed delegations of authority for City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup
ActionSA, the EFF and the ANC support the item, stressing implementation and accountability. The DA's Cllr Marais opposes it because it did not go to Section 79 committees, comparing approval to signing a cheque blindfolded. MMC Masuku defends it as a governance reform. The yeses carried and the DA recorded its opposition and reserved its rights.
NkomoActionSARadebeEFFMaraisDAMasukuChristiansDA1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:38:34
Break and re-ordering of the programme
The Speaker called a five-minute break. On return, the Chief Whip reported the whips' agreement that items 45 to 60 be taken together as noted and that non-elevated quarterly performance reports be moved to the next day. The Chair of Chairs asked that item 89 be elevated after the executive items, and the Speaker agreed.
ArnoldsAICChaukeANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:57:19
Item 82: addendum to Debt Relief Programme Phase 4
The ACDP, FF+, ActionSA, EFF and DA support the addendum. Their concerns include the unclear loyalty reward scheme, the projected R11.7 billion write-off and billing accuracy. MMC Masuku said the loyalty scheme policy would be expedited through the committees. The item was agreed.
MkhonzaACDPBoerFF+NkonyeniActionSAZithaEFFSantanaDAMasuku
Report an error - 07:16:51
Item 83: Service Level Standards Framework
The ACDP supports the framework and ActionSA notes it. The EFF approves it with concerns about service levels in informal settlements. The DA supports it with reservations and lists conditions such as independent verification and a binding service charter. MMC Masuku asks for support, and the item was agreed.
MkhonzaACDPNkomoActionSARadebeEFFWaxDAMasuku1 unidentified
Report an error - 07:31:16
Item 85: updated shareholder compacts of City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup
The ACDP notes the report and calls for board accountability. ActionSA approves, the EFF approves with concerns, and the ANC notes it. The DA opposes it because the compacts did not go to oversight committees and board selection is not addressed. The yeses carried and the DA recorded its opposition.
HarrisACDPMabundaActionSARadebeEFFTabaneANCMaraisDAMasukuChristiansDA
Report an error - 07:46:12
Item 89: Year Planner and schedule of meetings July 2026 to June 2027
Cllr Avant-Smith accepts the year plan and thanks the committees. ActionSA's Cllr Van Wyk asks why one of the two Questions to the Mayor sessions was removed. The Chair of Chairs asks council to note and approve, and the item was agreed.
Avant-SmithVan WykActionSA1 unidentified
Report an error - 07:48:55
Items 45 to 60: oversight visit reports taken together
The Secretary read out items 45 to 60, which are oversight visit reports of Section 79 committees. The Speaker noted none had speakers and put the recommendations page by page. No objections are recorded in the transcript.
Report an error - 07:54:04
Announcements and closure
The Speaker called item 102, then moved to announcements and closure. She said the sitting resumes the next day at 10:00 with 42 items and promised to address IT problems. The Deputy Executive Mayor asked to wear Bafana Bafana shirts, and the Speaker agreed as long as they carry no political leader's face.
ArnoldsAICMasuku
Report an error
Promises
13Commitments with a date, an amount or a 'we will'.
On 4 November 2026 (when this page was built): 0 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.
Date passed; a later sitting said doneMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Resume the council sitting the next day at 10:00 to consider the 42 remaining items.
07:54:40· by Tomorrow at 10:00· Report an error
Latest: Said done at a later sitting, 25 June 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“we will commence tomorrow again at 10 o'clock sharp”
- Done, they sayOpening and notice of meeting · 25 June 2026 · and 6 more moments that day
No dateLoyiso Masuku · Deputy Executive Mayor · MMC for Finance
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“dedicated workstreams will be established between the City Power and Eskom”
No dateLoyiso Masuku · Deputy Executive Mayor · MMC for Finance
01:15:30· by well before the applicable deadlines· Report an error
Latest: Said done at a later sitting, 26 August 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“this will be done well before the applicable deadlines”
- Done, they sayItems 1 and 2: ANC on the Section 71 reports · 26 August 2026 · and 2 more moments that day
No datePhiwekuhle Xulu · ActionSA
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we are going to rebuild a capable administration founded on clean governance”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
The Speaker will provide recordings of the sitting (made on Teams) to the caucuses.
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We'll give you the recordings.”
No datePhiwekuhle Xulu · ActionSA
02:40:29· by after the 4th of November· Report an error
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“when ActionSA enters government after the 4th of November, we are going to implement it.”
No dateNorman Fana Mkhonza · ACDP
The ACDP caucus will closely monitor implementation of the Financial Turnaround Framework.
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“will closely monitor its implementation”
No dateChristopher Glen Santana · DA
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 30 September 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“we will also hold the administration accountable for every commitments”
- In progressItem 14: Background paper on financial sustainability, oversight priorities · 30 September 2026
No dateNompumelelo Edward · ActionSA
ActionSA will support the Financial Turnaround Framework and monitor its implementation closely.
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we're going to monitor the implementation very closely”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
The Speaker will hand over the lost ID and wallet if the owner identifies himself.
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We'll give it to you.”
No dateLoyiso Masuku · Deputy Executive Mayor · MMC for Finance (by surname)
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we're very responsible, let's to expedite uh through uh Lufuno and the team”
No dateNorman Fana Mkhonza · ACDP
Submit written proposals on clauses 3.3 and 3.5 of the Debt Relief addendum for legal clarity.
07:17:25· by After his speech on item 83· Report an error
Not raised again in 7 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“if I'm allowed, I'll submit it after this speech”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Deal with IT problems to avoid the technical hiccups experienced during the sitting.
Latest: Called late or dropped at a later sitting, 30 July 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“we will ensure that we deal with IT”
- Late or droppedEFF login problems referred to IT · 30 July 2026
Decisions
28What council approved, rejected or put off.
- 00:03:43
Additional agenda items and urgent debateapproved
The Speaker acceded to adding items 87, 90 and 91 to the agenda and to a debate on a matter of urgent public importance requested by Cllr Meyers.
- 00:21:33
Quorumproceeded
Although only 136 were counted inside against 146 signed on the register, the Speaker proceeded with the meeting on the basis of the register.
- 00:29:30
Applications for leave of absenceapproved
The Speaker asked if the apologies were noted and moved on.
- 00:33:32
Confirmation of minutes (48th-51st Extraordinary, 11th Special, 37th Ordinary meetings)approved
The minutes were adopted with the ACDP's correction of 'taken for granted' to 'granted' in the 20-21 May minutes.
- 00:38:46
Elevation of items on the agendaapproved
Items 62, 66, 68-75, 82, 83 and 85 from the executive and item 61 from the legislature were elevated to be taken first.
- 00:39:49
DA request for caucusapproved
The Speaker granted a 15-minute caucus for all parties, with return at 10:55.
- 01:18:49
Urgent debate on Eskom substation cut-offsclosed
The Speaker closed the debate under Rule 99 after the Deputy Executive Mayor's reply, with no resolution taken.
- 01:54:15
Item 61: certification of irrecoverable and regularisation of irregular and unauthorised expenditure, April 2026approved (DA objection recorded)
The Speaker ruled that the yeses had it on the recommendations at pages 61.3-61.4, and the DA's opposition was recorded under Rule 84 at 01:54:41.
- 02:19:35
Continuing the sitting during the IT outageapproved
The Speaker ruled that the meeting continue without screens, with proceedings recorded on Teams, despite Cllr Christians' objection.
- 02:58:12
Item 62: Updated Strategy for Prevention and Reduction of Unauthorized, Irregular, Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditureapproved
The Speaker put the recommendations and the chamber answered 'Agreed'.
- 02:58:53
DA objection under Rule 84 (raised just after item 62 was agreed)objection recorded
Cllr Christians recorded the DA's objection under Rule 84 as the Speaker began announcing item 66; it appears to relate to item 62, though the transcript does not say so explicitly.
- 03:31:42
Item 66: Financial Turnaround Frameworkapproved
The Speaker asked whether the recommendations on page 66.3 were agreed and moved to item 68; no objection is audible in the transcript.
- 04:59:50
Item 69: Johannesburg Water plan (recommendations on page 69.6)approved
The Speaker asked if the item was agreed and proceeded; the DA's opposition was then recorded under Rule 84.
- 05:00:12
DA opposition to item 69 under Rule 84objection recorded
Cllr Christians noted the DA's opposition and reserved its rights to take the matter further.
- 05:15:54
Item 70: City Power Trading Reform Strategy 2026-27 and Business Investment Planapproved
After some noes were heard, the Speaker ruled the yeses had it.
- 05:16:05
DA opposition to item 70 under Rule 84objection recorded
A DA councillor asked that the DA's opposition to item 70 be noted under Rule 84.
- 05:47:02
Item 71 (metro trading reform programme for City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitup)approved
After a division of the house, 100 voted for, 53 against and 3 abstained, so the item was carried; the DA recorded its opposition.
- 05:55:47
Item 72: Johannesburg Water performance improvement action plan v2approved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84.
- 06:06:37
Item 73: City Power Trading Reform Strategy 2026-27 (PIAP V2)approved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84.
- 06:20:24
Item 74: Pikitup Performance Improvement Action Planapproved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition to the process under Rule 84.
- 06:26:24
Quorum checkquorum confirmed
The Speaker announced a count of 143 councillors and said council could continue.
- 06:38:15
Item 75: reviewed delegations of authority of City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitupapproved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition and reserved its rights.
- 06:56:28
Order of business for the rest of the sittingagreed
Remaining elevated executive items first, then item 89 (year planner), then oversight reports 45-60 taken together, with non-elevated quarterly performance reports moved to the next day.
- 07:16:47
Item 82: addendum to Debt Relief Programme Phase 4approved
The item was agreed with no recorded opposition.
- 07:31:11
Item 83: Service Level Standards Frameworkapproved
The item was agreed with no recorded opposition.
- 07:45:38
Item 85: updated shareholder compacts of City Power, Joburg Water and Pikitupapproved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it, and the DA recorded its opposition under Rule 84.
- 07:48:41
Item 89: Year Planner and Schedule of Meetings, July 2026 to June 2027approved
The item was agreed after the Chair of Chairs asked council to note and approve it.
- 07:52:24
Items 45 to 60: oversight visit reports of Section 79 committeesnoted
The recommendations of each item were put in turn without speakers, in line with the whips' agreement to note them, and no objection is recorded.
Attendance and conduct
119Who was away and why, as said in the chamber.
Apologies read out 78
- Party business (9)
- M. Cook, Y. Zigebe, Magwentshu, Mnisi*, Jabu Mabunda, Themba Mabunda, Mokoka, Mkhonto, Harris
- Private business (2)
- M. Mokoena, Abdool
- Ill health (25)
- J. Kaldine, J. Karolia, Sekwaila, Mabuke, Ndou*, Tshehlo, Tambani, Zazini, Zungu, Raphadu, Mazibukwana, Galeshewe, Makhafola, Ngwenya*, Molefe*, Nethamba, Nyembe*, Ponsonby, Wilskut, Mohamed, Finn, Smit, Bini, Modukanene, Ndou*
- Arriving late (16)
- Madiba, Shange, Nkubungu, Mothopi, Nair, Ramafikeng, Nzimande, Koma, Raseruthe, Manganyi, Jonker, Mazibuko*, Kamela, Fourie-Shawe, Nkonyeni, Sondag
- Official duty (1)
- Mgcina
- Bereavement (1)
- Mphaho
- Leaving early (17)
- Mofokeng*, Supe, Mohau Molefe, Ngoepe, Modupi, Maake, Mashinini, Mogapi, Kunene, Coogan, Shawe, Steenkamp*, Da Rocha, Schay, Ntombela, Wissler, Edward
- Other reason (2)
- Khanyile*, Van Der Merwe
* Name as heard; not matched to exactly one councillor.
Not present when called 8
- 01:21:29
Harris: Chair asked whether Harris had arrived; reply was not yet.
- 02:21:00
Harris: Chair noted Harris was absent and moved to the next speaker.
- 02:36:10
Modukanene: Called as speaker; another councillor said he was on leave of absence.
- 03:32:48
Bittkau: Called to speak on item 68; another DA councillor said he would speak in his place.
- 05:28:36
Nofemela: Chair asked whether Councillor Nofemela was present; an unidentified ANC speaker then responded.
- 05:48:41
Modukanene: ActionSA speaker slot on item 72 had nobody to speak.
- 06:09:24
Modukanene: No ActionSA replacement for Councillor Modukanene was found at the start of item 74 speakers.
- 07:11:44
Modupi: Chair moved on after Councillor Modupi did not respond on item 82.
Warned or stopped by the chair 12
- 00:19:01
Khumalo: Chair asked them to go to their seats during the count.
- 00:19:01
Mabaso: Chair asked them to go to their seats during the count.
- 02:17:19
Santana: Chair ordered him to sit.
- 02:17:19
Meyers: Chair asked him to sit.
- 02:47:40
Speaker asked members on her left to stop the noise because the speaker could not be heard.
- 05:39:18
Nkonyeni: Chair told Councillor Nkonyeni to sit during the division.
- 05:56:29
Harris: Chair told Councillor Harris to stay seated.
- 06:03:00
Mokoena*: Chair asked an EFF councillor to switch off the microphone.
- 06:07:32
Harris: Chair told Councillor Harris to wait to be called.
- 06:17:54
Pietersen*: Chair asked Councillor Pietersen to return to their seat because their conversation was audible.
- 07:11:44
Zitha: Chair asked Councillor Zitha to switch off the microphone.
- 07:38:20
Mabunda*: Chair asked Councillor Mabunda to switch off the microphone.
Sound or equipment problem 18
- 00:32:40
Mkhonza*: Speaker could not be heard through the microphone.
- 00:37:20
Deputy Executive Mayor's microphone kept switching off.
- 00:38:46
Chair told a councillor to use another microphone.
- 01:21:55
Chair asked Councillor Boer to use the neighbouring microphone.
- 01:29:47
A councillor reported a faulty microphone.
- 01:32:27
Speaker's microphone failed and chair redirected to another one.
- 01:37:43
Microphone problems during a speech.
- 01:47:21
System shut down, screens black and streaming stopped.
- 02:31:47
Wax*: Speaker could not be heard on the microphone.
- 02:52:20
A councillor suggested rats had damaged the chamber wiring and asked for an IT check.
- 03:33:11
Speaker asked the DA speaker to adjust the microphone.
- 04:48:50
Speaker asked whoever had a microphone on to switch it off because of a microphone problem.
- 04:49:07
Da Rocha*: Speaker asked councillors to lift their microphones, naming Cllr Da Rocha.
- 04:54:09
Speaker asked Councillor Masuku to switch off a live microphone.
- 04:57:40
A councillor remarked that the microphone was working intermittently.
- 05:04:30
Speaker asked the ActionSA speaker to reposition the microphone.
- 06:06:37
Chair said microphones at the back of the chamber were not working.
- 07:54:56
Chair referred to IT problems experienced during the day.
Not ready when called 1
Question withdrawn 2
Transcript
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