Wednesday, 26 August 2026 · 9 h 7 min · 1 video · 2021–2026 council
39th 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 (35)
- ◯Quorum count (3)
- ‖Adjourned or paused (5)
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 the first of two days of the 39th Ordinary Council Meeting, council approved the recruitment and appointment of the Head of Department for Public Safety after rejecting a DA motion to postpone it. 00:00:35 04:20:43 04:54:46 The DA motion, which cited an SIU high-risk flag on the preferred candidate, failed by 82 yes to 110 no with 2 abstentions; the DA, FF Plus, ACDP and ActionSA recorded dissent. 04:17:15 04:20:43 04:54:46
Council approved the Rea Vaya Phase 1A public participation notice by 112 yes, 42 no and 3 abstentions, on a roll call the ANC demanded after the Speaker declared the noes louder. 06:53:41 Other approvals included the Code for Ethical Leadership, a GEF grant, Egoli Gas tariffs, Fairland land sales over DA objection, and Cllr Thapelo Radebe's election as Finance Section 79 chair. 01:37:32 02:50:03 06:32:09 06:44:50 07:45:48
The Speaker ordered security to remove Cllr Da Rocha for disrupting proceedings and fined several councillors R1,000 each over filming in the chamber. 02:36:46 03:15:22 03:19:47 Cllr Mzolo and Cllr Supe withdrew remarks after objections, and the Speaker ruled that blue T-shirts worn by DA members carried no party symbol or insignia under Rule 30A. 01:31:04 03:44:10 06:01:57
The sitting opened with a 20-minute adjournment so councillors could arrive and sign the register, and resumed about 20 minutes late after lunch. 00:00:35 05:48:40 Oral questions, which the executive objected were received late, were deferred to the next day, along with the rest of the agenda. 00:51:32 01:03:35 08:09:16
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: Johannesburg council, week of 24 August 2026
In brief
- 35 decisions: 20 approved, 11 noted or other, 2 deferred or withdrawn, 2 rejected.
- 13 promises on record, including: The Speaker will report during the day on whether the motion without notice on the Public Safety HOD recruitment complies with the rules.
- 3 quorum counts.
- 69 apologies read out. MMC or Mayor not present for their business: 6; Not present when called: 14; Warned or stopped by the chair: 39; Sound or equipment problem: 11; Not ready when called: 1.
Chapters
67What was discussed, in order. Click a time to watch.
- 00:00:35
Opening of the 39th Ordinary Council Meeting and quorum count
The Speaker notified the meeting for 26 and 27 August 2026 at the Constance Connie Bapela Council Chamber and welcomed those present. Councillors were counted against the signed register, and the register stood at 121 signatures against 113 in the chamber. The house adjourned for 20 minutes to allow members to arrive, then resumed with 151, and later 155, names on the register against 156 present.
Report an error - 00:35:00
Motion without notice on recruitment of the Public Safety HOD
The Speaker reported a motion without notice under rule 93(1)(c), brought by Cllr Maila, on the recruitment and appointment process for the Head of the Department of Public Safety. She said the office was checking compliance and would report back during the day.
Report an error - 00:36:21
Applications for leave of absence
The Speaker read the written leave applications and an apology from the City Manager. Caucus representatives then tabled late arrivals, early departures and absences for the IFP, EFF, PA, UDM/ATM, ANC, DA, ActionSA and ACDP. The Speaker asked whether the apologies were noted.
ArnoldsAICMaseraDACoutriersActionSA
Report an error - 00:44:20
Official notices: Women's Day tokens and new councillors
The Speaker acknowledged Women's Day and said tokens had been prepared for women councillors. She welcomed new councillors Lotz (GOOD), Jack (UIM) and Elias, who replace former councillors Cook, Abdool and Pitso. She also wished councillors with August birthdays well.
Report an error - 00:46:23
Confirmation of minutes
The minutes of the 38th Ordinary Meeting and the 52nd and 53rd Extraordinary Meetings were tabled. The Deputy Executive Mayor said there was no statement from the Executive Mayor. The ACDP and DA agreed with the minutes, and the ANC asked for a typographical correction ('cit manager' to 'city manager'). The minutes were noted with that correction, and the Speaker acknowledged guests in the gallery.
ArnoldsAICMasukuANCMkhonzaACDPMogapiEFFFourie-ShaweDANompumelelo MazibukoANC
Report an error - 00:51:32
Dispute over oral questions (item 5A)
The Deputy Executive Mayor objected that the oral questions had not gone through programming and were received only the night before, and other MMCs said they got theirs that morning. The Speaker explained that the DA questions had been on the drive and that the ActionSA questions were loaded late. She said oral questions, written questions and mayoral questions can be combined when there are no quarterly reports, and apologised for the late loading. The executive agreed to answer the oral questions the next day.
MasukuANCArnoldsAICMgcinaANC
Report an error - 01:03:35
Written questions (item 5B)
The Speaker confirmed that the written replies had been loaded onto the drive. Cllr Christians objected that some replies said they would be answered at the next council meeting even though this was the last sitting, and asked for Rule 110(5) to apply. The Speaker said the executive would respond in writing.
Report an error - 01:06:21
Item 6: election procedure for Finance Section 79 chair and ANC caucus break
The Speaker said the Finance Section 79 chair would be elected by show of hands under Rule 24 and that nomination forms had gone to party whips. Cllr Ndlela requested a 10-minute ANC caucus break, which was granted. The break ran far longer, with drumming in the chamber, and the Speaker complained about the time lost. The Chair of Chairs said the matter the caucus wanted to deal with had been covered.
Report an error - 01:28:04
Clarity on why a Finance chair is being elected at the last sitting
Cllr Christians asked whether an emergency Finance Committee sitting was expected, given that these were the last council days. The Speaker said Finance had been unable to do its work during the election period. She said council or committee sittings could still be called when needed, in line with SALGA communication.
Report an error - 01:31:04
Objection to campaign T-shirts and dress code ruling
Cllr Raphadu objected that DA members were wearing blue T-shirts with a mayoral candidate's name on the back. After consulting legal, the Speaker read Rule 30A, which bars political party symbols or insignia. She ruled that the T-shirts bore neither and closed the matter. She refused a PA request for a 30-minute caucus and heard Cllr Simonse.
RaphaduANCKaldinePASimonsePAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 01:37:32
Nomination and election of Finance Section 79 chairperson
One nomination was received, proposing Cllr Thapelo Radebe, with Cllr Nofemela as proposer and Cllr Modupi as seconder. Radebe accepted the nomination. With no other nominations, the Speaker declared him chairperson of the Section 79 Finance Committee.
ArnoldsAICNofemelaANCModupiANCThapelo RadebeANC
Report an error - 01:42:09
Recommendations to council and reordering of the agenda
The Deputy Executive Mayor and the Chair of Chairs tabled their recommendations. At the executive's request, items 37 and 38, including the Public Safety HOD recruitment, were elevated to follow the finance items. At Cllr Santana's request, items 1 and 2 (the April and May MFMA reports) were combined for debate.
MasukuANCMaremaANCSantanaDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 01:45:13
Items 1 and 2: ACDP and FF+ on the April and May MFMA reports
Cllr Mkhonza supported noting the reports but criticised capital expenditure, conditional grant spending and the R75.7 billion debtors book. He asked the Deputy Executive Mayor for a strategy to avoid forfeiting grants. Cllr Boer (FF+) highlighted the May deficit of R18.3 million and 52% capital spending. He also raised R10.1 billion in debt impairment and Johannesburg Water losses.
Also discussed: Items 18 and 19: In-year financial reports (June and July 2026), first speakers (30 September 2026) · FF+ on financial findings (30 July 2026)
Report an error - 01:55:44
Items 1 and 2: DA on city finances
Cllr Santana said the reports showed an ANC-led coalition failing to control finances. He pointed to a swing from a R752.5 million surplus in April to an R18.3 million deficit in May, falling cash, rising creditors, and capital spending of 52%. He also cited withheld and returnable grants, turnover in finance leadership, and inconsistencies in the reports.
Also discussed: DA on Section 71 reports (25 June 2026) · ActionSA, DA and FF+ on Group Finance report (22 July 2026) · Item 70: EFF and ANC (24 June 2026)
Report an error - 02:02:41
Items 1 and 2: EFF contributions
Cllr Nethamba said the reports showed underspending of the capital budget and conditional grants and called for accountability and consequence management. Cllr Zitha described the city as seriously ill, citing low capital expenditure by department, water and electricity losses, and the Johannesburg Water infrastructure shortfall. Both speakers used their time to promote Dr Tlaleng for mayor ahead of the 4 November election.
Report an error - 02:09:17
Items 1 and 2: ANC on the Section 71 reports
Cllr Modupi supported both reports, citing a 91.2% May collection rate, capital spending of R4.4 billion and 52% execution, and improved cash and investments. He said the city had settled the R5.25 billion Eskom debt and acknowledged the May operating deficit. He criticised earlier DA-led administrations and urged voters to support the ANC.
Also discussed: Item 70: EFF and ANC (24 June 2026)
Report an error - 02:17:01
Items 1 and 2: Finance MMC's response and noting
The Deputy Executive Mayor, as MMC for Finance, acknowledged the capital expenditure problem and said a war room in the COO's office follows it up weekly. She corrected Cllr Zitha, saying Moody's had moved the city to a positive outlook in July. She also noted concern about entity overdrafts and Johannesburg Water. Council noted both reports.
MasukuANCArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 02:20:45
Item 3: Code for Ethical Leadership (ACDP, AIC, UDM)
Cllr Mkhonza said the ACDP fully supported the code but noted that no implementation schedule had been shared. Cllr Mhlongo noted and adopted the report for the AIC and praised the Speaker as the AIC's mayoral candidate. Cllr Zigebe said the UDM supported the code but wanted regular implementation reports to council.
MkhonzaACDPMhlongoAICZigebeUDM
Report an error - 02:28:03
Item 3: DA and ActionSA on the ethics code
Cllr Wax said the code came too late in the term but that the DA would support it cautiously, provided it is implemented seriously. Cllr Nkomo said ActionSA supports the item but asked what consequences apply for breaches, who will monitor compliance, and when council will receive implementation reports.
WaxDANkomoActionSA
Report an error - 02:36:46
Item 3: EFF on the ethics code and fines for filming
Cllr Radebe (EFF) said the code was a start but that the report claimed no financial or policy implications. She proposed linking the code to consequence management through quarterly reporting and ethics KPIs in senior managers' performance agreements. During her speech the Speaker fined Cllrs Nkomo, Coutriers and Radebe R1,000 each for taking videos in the chamber.
Nonhlanhla RadebeEFFNkomoActionSACoutriersActionSAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 02:42:07
Item 3: ANC on the ethics code and points of order
Cllr Molefe congratulated Cllr Radebe, thanked the Mayor and Finance MMC for settling the Eskom debt, and supported adopting the code. Cllr Christians raised a point of order that the Eskom debt had not been settled in full, which the Speaker deferred to be checked. A further exchange followed over the blue T-shirts, and the Speaker repeated her earlier ruling.
Mohau MolefeANCChristiansDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 02:50:03
Item 3: Deputy Executive Mayor's reply and adoption of the code
The Deputy Executive Mayor said the framework strengthens integrity and accountability and should be measured by implementation. She attacked previous DA and ActionSA mayors on ethical leadership and financial misconduct processes. Cllr Echeozonjoku objected under Rule 72 that the DA did not dissolve the disciplinary board. The MMC read an Eskom statement that City Power had settled R5.255 billion in full, and the item was agreed.
MasukuANCEcheozonjokuDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 02:56:22
Item 4: Public Participation Outcomes Report 2026/2027
The Speaker introduced item 4, the tabling of the Public Participation Outcomes Report for approval and noting. Cllr Mkhonza said the ACDP noted and supported the report but lamented very low community attendance of 0.09% and 0.13% at the CBP and IDP summits. The recording of this part ends with overlapping, unclear audio from the next speakers.
Report an error - 03:00:02
Item 4: Public participation outcomes report debate
Councillors debated the 2026-27 public participation outcomes report. Speakers from the DA, EFF and ANC criticised or supported the process and referred to the 4 November elections. ActionSA noted the item, and the Deputy Executive Mayor urged all councillors to encourage residents to attend upcoming community-based planning sessions.
ChristiansDANkomoActionSAMbambalaEFFTefuANCMasukuANC
Report an error - 03:15:22
Councillor Da Rocha removed from the chamber
Cllr Da Rocha shouted about the lack of water, power and sewer services after the Speaker had moved on. The Speaker ruled that he was disrupting proceedings and ordered security to remove him, and he was taken out amid noise in the chamber. Cllr Kaldine then complained about how DA councillors are treated.
Report an error - 03:19:47
Decorum plea, fines and ethics referral request
MMC Masuku asked all councillors to maintain decorum at the end of the term and to respect the Speaker's rulings. The Speaker complained of councillors throwing their hands and filming, and announced R1,000 fines payable the next day. MMC Masuku recommended that Cllr Da Rocha be referred to ethics, and the Speaker moved the council on without taking further points.
MasukuANCArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 03:24:47
Item 37: Rescission and re-advertisement of Executive Director Human Settlements
The Speaker introduced item 37 and the elevated items. DA, ACDP and DA speakers criticised the Human Settlements department, the timing of the report and the handling of the interdict. An ActionSA speaker began on item 38 content and was told by the Speaker he was on the wrong item.
Campbell-CloeteDAHarrisACDPBrandDAMabelebeleActionSA
Report an error - 03:37:45
Dispute over alleged breathalyzer remark
Cllr Avant-Smith raised a point of order that a councillor had shouted a demand for breathalyzers when Cllr Maila stood up. The Speaker asked the councillor to withdraw the remark, but the councillor declined. The Speaker said she would play the recording and return to the matter later that day.
Report an error - 03:39:12
Item 37: ActionSA and EFF contributions
Cllr Mabelebele finished his speech, attacking ANC governance and calling for ethical leadership under ActionSA and Herman Mashaba. An EFF speaker then said the EFF notes the report.
Report an error - 03:44:10
Item 37: Cllr Mzolo's speech and unparliamentary language rows
Cllr Mzolo spoke for the ANC, noting the report and criticising opposition parties. DA councillors objected to his references to a 'Dysfunctional Alliance', dogs and clowns. The Speaker ordered him to withdraw those remarks, and he did so.
MzoloANCMailaDAEcheozonjokuDAArnoldsAIC
Report an error - 03:56:00
Item 37: MMC response and approval
MMC Mabaso, responding for the department, explained that the appointed Executive Director was interdicted shortly after taking office and never returned. He said the city's legal advisers had allowed the position to be re-advertised to end instability in the department. The Speaker put the item to the house, which agreed.
Report an error - 04:02:11
Item 38: Procedural dispute over DA motion without notice
Before debate on item 38 the Speaker took the DA's motion without notice. Cllr Raphadu, Cllr Makhafola, Cllr Christians and MMC Mgcina argued over whether it complied with the rules. The Speaker cited rules 90 and 93 and ruled that it complied.
ArnoldsAICMailaDARaphaduANCMakhafolaEFFChristiansDAMgcinaANC
Report an error - 04:17:15
Cllr Maila moves motion to postpone item 38
Cllr Maila read the DA's motion under rule 93(1)(c) to postpone item 38 until the SIU investigation, vetting and integrity processes are finalised. He said the report itself records that the preferred candidate was flagged as high risk by the SIU. He stressed that the motion makes no finding of guilt.
Report an error - 04:20:43
Vote on the motion to postpone item 38
Voice responses were inaudible, so the Speaker rang the bells and called a show of hands. The motion was defeated and the council continued with item 38.
Report an error - 04:31:05
Item 38: Head of Department Public Safety debate (DA, GOOD, ActionSA, EFF)
Cllr Maila placed the DA's opposition on record and said it reserves the right to take the decision on review. Cllr Lotz (GOOD), Cllr Foley (DA) and Cllr Mabelebele (ActionSA) spoke on the SIU high-risk flag and the integrity of the process. An EFF councillor noted the report on behalf of Cllr Nhlapo.
MailaDALotzGOODFoleyDAMabelebeleActionSAMogapiEFF
Report an error - 04:45:36
Item 38: Cllr Mzolo's speech
Cllr Mzolo said the ANC notes the report and called for accountability and performance standards for the successful candidate. He mocked the DA's blue T-shirts and ActionSA's loyalty to Mashaba. Cllr Christians raised a point of order on decorum under rule 72.
Report an error - 04:52:32
Item 38: MMC Mabaso's response
MMC Mabaso said filling the long-vacant Public Safety post is welcome. He pointed to recommendations 3 and 5, which require security clearance before the appointment is finalised, and asked council to approve the report.
Report an error - 04:54:46
Item 38: Vote and recorded dissent
The Speaker put item 38 to the house and ruled that the yeses had it, after loud 'no' calls. The DA, FF Plus, ACDP and ActionSA each asked for their dissent to be recorded under Rule 84.
ArnoldsAICChristiansDADe LangeFF+HarrisACDPMabelebeleActionSA
Report an error - 04:56:40
Lunch adjournment
The Speaker adjourned the sitting for lunch at 14:55 and told councillors to return at 15:30 sharp. The recording then has a long stretch of mostly unintelligible background chatter.
Report an error - 05:48:40
Delayed resumption and aircon problem
The sitting resumed about 20 minutes late, and the Speaker asked whips to bring their councillors in. She said the aircon was being repaired upstairs and would take about 20 more minutes, and asked the council to carry on.
Report an error - 05:52:15
Item 5: CoJ Security Access Restriction by-laws
The council resumed at item 5, the introduction of the Security Access Restriction by-laws and related public participation. Cllr Harris of the ACDP commended the Johannesburg Zoo and said the ACDP notes the reports. Cllr Kreusch of the DA said the DA supports the 2018 road closure policy and the by-laws in principle but reserved some conditions. The transcript part ends mid-speech.
Report an error - 05:56:08
Item 5: Security Access Restriction by-laws debate (DA close, ANC)
A DA councillor closed on the proposed Security Access Restriction by-laws. The DA asked for bona fide public participation and for the by-laws to go to the Section 79 Transport Committee next term. Cllr Supe (ANC) supported the direction, called for emergency access to be guaranteed and for clear criteria and consultation, and said Ward 111 was a no-go area for the DA and Freedom Front Plus.
SupeANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:01:57
Objection to 'no-go area' remark
Cllr Christians objected that no-go areas are unconstitutional and asked the Speaker to act. The Speaker asked Cllr Supe to withdraw the remark, and he withdrew it.
Report an error - 06:02:57
Item 5: MMC response and agreement
The Speaker asked MMC Amad to respond because the other MMCs had just walked in. MMC Amad said he would escalate the inputs to MMC Kunene. The Speaker asked whether the item was agreed and moved on without a recorded objection.
Report an error - 06:04:11
Item 6: GEF grant funding, first round of party speakers
Council considered accepting Global Environment Facility grant funding, with the DBSA as partner, for solar and energy efficiency work. The ACDP, GOOD, UDM, DA and an ActionSA proxy supported or noted the item. They raised concerns about the co-financing from City Power, unfunded obligations, oversight and procurement.
HarrisACDPLotzGOODZigebeUDMKoekemoerDA1 unidentified
Report an error - 06:18:45
Item 6: EFF position and demands on water
Cllr Mkasi said the EFF supported the grant but demanded that the administration identify and quantify water infrastructure failures, such as in Zandspruit, and report back to council. The speech also gave background on the GEF, the Sustainable Cities programme and the pilot solar and efficiency components.
Report an error - 06:32:09
Item 6: FF+ support, MMC response and agreement
The Freedom Front Plus supported the grant and said it would oversee the spending through the Section 79 EISD Committee. MMC Sekwaila said the grant fits the plan to turn City Power into an energy company and responded to concerns on spending and reporting. The item was agreed.
Report an error - 06:36:11
Item 7: Egoli Gas price determination methodology 2026-2031
The ACDP objected that the methodology was being approved retroactively after the 30 June expiry. ActionSA and the ANC noted the report. The EFF supported it but asked what council was approving if NERSA is responsible, and again raised water in Zandspruit. MMC Sekwaila responded and the item was agreed.
HarrisACDPMasukuActionSAMkasiEFFMatheANCSekwailaANC
Report an error - 06:44:50
Item 8: Egoli Gas 2026/27 tariffs
The ACDP welcomed the CPI-linked increase, and ActionSA, the EFF and the ANC noted the report. MMC Sekwaila thanked councillors, with a light exchange on Pirates and Chiefs. The item was agreed.
HarrisACDPMasukuActionSAMkasiEFFMatheANCSekwailaANC
Report an error - 06:47:24
Item 9: Rea Vaya Phase 1A Bus Operating Company public participation notice
An ACDP stand-in welcomed the report, and the DA said it did not support the item. The DA called it a hospital pass, citing R3.2 billion in costs over seven years against R820 million in returns, Treasury red flags and monopolisation of routes. The ANC noted the report and MMC Mgcina said the questions would be escalated.
KreuschDAMgcinaANC2 unidentified
Report an error - 06:53:41
Item 9: dispute over voice vote and roll call
The Speaker declared the noes louder on the voice vote. The ANC, through Cllr Raphadu, demanded a roll call, bells were rung and councillors who arrived after the doors closed were not counted. The count was 112 yes, 42 no and 3 abstentions, and the DA objected to the procedure and recorded its dissent under Rule 84.
ArnoldsAICRaphaduANCChristiansDA
Report an error - 07:06:08
Item 10: Repeal of redundant Human Settlements policies
Council considered repealing three Human Settlements policies (Child-Headed Household, Non-Qualify and Rent Relief) already absorbed into newer policies. ActionSA and the ANC supported the report. MMC Mabaso asked council to approve it and the item was agreed.
MavhonaANCMabasoIFP1 unidentified
Report an error - 07:11:13
Items 11 and 12: Fairland development sales, GOOD, AIC and DA
Items 11 and 12, development sales of Fairland erven, were read together at the request of Cllr Mhlongo. GOOD and the AIC supported them. The DA opposed them, citing no comparison of sale against long-term lease, outstanding environmental, traffic and City Power studies, a City Parks and Zoo objection and stale consultation, and asked for deferral.
MhlongoAICLotzGOODNkomoDA
Report an error - 07:24:55
Items 11 and 12: ActionSA, EFF and ANC positions
An ActionSA proxy noted both items because Cllr Xulu was ill. The EFF said it favoured a long-term lease and keeping land in public hands. The ANC speaker supported unlocking the land but asked for a developmental return framework, infrastructure checks, reporting and a land dashboard.
MoepiEFFMuleluANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 07:41:24
Items 11 and 12: MMC Mnisi's response
MMC Mnisi said the transactions were development sales for human settlements, with title passed only once the developer met conditions. She said the environmental and other studies would be done in the town planning process after council authority. She said the transactions were MFMA-compliant and asked council to approve.
MnisiANC
Report an error - 07:43:14
Point on earlier resolution against property sales
Cllr Christians, under Rule 72, asked whether a previous-term resolution barring sales of city property should first be rescinded. The Speaker replied that the items were committee reports and told MMC Mnisi to continue.
ChristiansDAMnisiANC
Report an error - 07:45:48
Items 11 and 12: vote and DA objection
The Speaker asked whether the items were agreed. Voices were mixed, and she declared that the yeses had it. Cllr Christians recorded the DA's opposition under Rule 84, citing an incomplete report and the council resolution against land sales.
Report an error - 07:47:50
Item 13: Sale of Portion 19 of Erf 491, Ivory Park Ext 7
The AIC approved the report, ActionSA's proxy and the EFF noted it, and the ANC noted it. The EFF said Ivory Park residents wanted the land for settlement. MMC Mnisi asked council to approve and the item was agreed.
MhlongoAICMoepiEFFLebeaANCMnisiANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 07:53:24
Item 14: Township Economies By-law implementation plan
Speakers from the ACDP, AIC, UDM, FF+, ActionSA, EFF and ANC welcomed or noted the plan. Points raised included red tape, an inclusive economy and compliance, quarterly reporting and outcome-based measures. MMC Mnisi said the approach is to educate, support, formalise and enforce when necessary, and the item was agreed.
HarrisACDPMhlongoAICZigebeUDMDe LangeFF+MoatsheActionSAMabuzaANCMnisiANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 08:09:16
Reordering of remaining business
The Chair of Chairs asked to elevate Item 47 and Items 22 to 28 and to defer the rest of the agenda to the next morning. Cllr Mhlongo asked for Items 15 and 16 to be read together. The Speaker agreed to take 15 and 16, then 47, then 22 to 28.
Report an error - 08:11:10
Items 15 and 16: Region A and Region E economic development plans, ACDP, UDM, FF+ and DA
The Region A and Region E Regional Economic Development Plans, Investment Atlases and Implementation Plans were read together. The ACDP and UDM noted them and the FF+ asked about special economic zones for Region A. The DA said the plans lacked evidence, prioritisation and funding and ignored basic infrastructure.
HarrisACDPZigebeUDMDe LangeFF+ReddyDA
Report an error - 08:26:17
Items 15 and 16: ActionSA, EFF, ANC, MMC response and agreement
ActionSA and the EFF noted both items and the ANC's Cllr Bolani supported them with a call to turn the plans into funded project pipelines. MMC Mnisi said the plans are a framework, not a wish list, and asked council to approve them. The items were agreed.
BolaniANCMnisiANC2 unidentified
Report an error - 08:39:12
Item 47: Implementation of the Alderman policy, EFF and ANC
Item 47 asked council to confer the Alderman title on qualifying serving and former councillors under a points-based policy with a 20-point threshold. The EFF said longevity must not be confused with service. The ANC supported the phased, verified approach and consistent application of the criteria.
MokoenaEFFNkubunguANC
Report an error - 08:48:38
Item 47: DA amendments on Honorary Alderman wording
Cllr Christians proposed that the report refer to Honorary Alderman for former councillors and that Recommendation 4 fall away until verification is complete. The Speaker explained the three categories of recommendation and agreed to change the wording.
Report an error - 08:57:45
Item 47: Further councillors to be verified, and agreement
A councillor asked what happens to qualifying councillors not in the listed cohort, naming Raphadu, Twala and Francisco. The Speaker said they would be verified. The Chair of Chairs agreed with the Christians amendments, and the item was agreed with the wording changes.
ArnoldsAICMaremaANC1 unidentified
Report an error - 09:03:25
Items 22 to 28: oversight visit reports
The Secretary to Council read the oversight reports on the Pochi cemetery, Drieziek and Orange Farm facilities, the Joburg City Library and the Johannesburg Theatre. There were no speakers. The Speaker read out the recommendation pages and the items were agreed.
Report an error - 09:05:46
Announcements and adjournment
The Speaker announced that the next day would start at 10:00 with the alderman acknowledgement from 10:00 to 11:00. The normal council sitting would begin at 11:00. She asked councillors not to waste time as they had that day and closed the day.
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, 10 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 doneLoyiso Masuku · Deputy Executive Mayor · MMC for Finance (by surname)
The executive will answer the oral questions that were loaded late on the second day of the sitting.
01:01:28· by 27 August 2026 (tomorrow)· Report an error
Latest: Said done at a later sitting, 27 August 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“It's fine, tomorrow, because we are an accountable government, we will respond tomorrow.”
- Done, they sayOral questions: Florence Nightingale building evacuation · 27 August 2026 · and 1 more moment that day
Due the same or next dayMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
00:36:00· by During the sitting day· Report an error
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“as the day go we will let you know.”
Due the same or next dayMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
03:39:01· by today (26 August 2026)· Report an error
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“I will play the recording and I'll come back to you today”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
The Speaker undertook that questions will not again be loaded late for the executive.
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“it will not happen again.”
No dateSolomon Masehlele Maila · DA
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we intend placing every single councillor on notice”
No dateNontutuzela Prescilla Supe · ANC
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we're going to have a CAPEX budget and advance service delivery”
No dateThapelo Amad · MMC for Community Development
MMC Amad will pass the councillors' inputs on the Item 5 by-laws to MMC Kunene.
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“I will indeed escalate the inputs to MMC Kunene.”
No dateCornelis Boer · FF+
The FF+ will oversee spending of the GEF grant through the Section 79 EISD Committee.
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we will, uh, do proper oversight through the Section 79 EISD Committee”
No dateJack Sekwaila · MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services
MMC Sekwaila undertook to ensure the GEF grant money is spent in line with its mission.
06:35:10· US$3 million grant (approx. R54 million)· Report an error
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“we'll make sure that this money is spent, uh, in accordance with the mission as dictated”
No dateNomoya Mnisi · MMC for Economic Development (by surname)
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“All assessments, Madam Speaker, will further be conducted once we have council authority”
No dateNomoya Mnisi · MMC for Economic Development (by surname)
Not raised again in 3 sitting days since; no City report.
Evidence: quote
“We will continue working with the JDA and JPC and other stakeholders”
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Latest: Said in progress at a later sitting, 27 August 2026 (AI judgment)
Evidence: quote · 1 later sitting
“we are going to verify Councillor Raphadu and Councillor Twala.”
- In progressAlderman awards: Da Gama to Deppe · 27 August 2026
No dateMargeret Sheron Arnolds · AIC
Latest: Raised again at a later sitting, 30 September 2026 (label checked by hand)
Evidence: quote · 2 later sittings
“we will do the wording accordingly”
- Raised againBadges to follow; remarks recognising the Speaker · 27 August 2026
- Raised againItem 20: Implementation of revised Alderman Policy, phase two · 30 September 2026
Decisions
35What council approved, rejected or put off.
- 00:35:00
Quorum and register countrecorded
The register showed 155 signatures against 156 councillors present before the meeting proceeded to business.
- 00:36:00
Motion without notice on the recruitment of the Head of Public Safety (Cllr Maila)deferred
The Speaker said compliance was being checked and she would report back later in the day.
- 00:44:10
Applications for leave of absence and apologiesnoted
The Speaker asked whether the apologies were noted and then moved on.
- 00:49:29
Minutes of the 38th Ordinary, 52nd Extraordinary and 53rd Extraordinary Meetingsapproved
The minutes were noted with the correction of 'cit manager' to 'city manager' on page 26 item 23 of the 22 July minutes.
- 01:05:46
Item 5A: questions for oral replydeferred
The Speaker ruled that oral questions would be answered by the executive on the following day.
- 01:05:05
Item 5B: questions for written replynoted
The Speaker said the executive would respond to the written questions in writing.
- 01:36:51
Dress code objection (Cllr Raphadu)rejected
The Speaker ruled that the blue T-shirts carried no party symbol or insignia under Rule 30A and closed the matter.
- 01:41:17
Item 6: election of the Chairperson of the Section 79 Finance Committeeapproved
Cllr Thapelo Radebe was the only nominee and was declared chairperson.
- 01:44:17
Reordering of the agenda: items 37 and 38approved
At the executive's request, items 37 and 38, including the Public Safety HOD recruitment, were elevated to follow the finance items.
- 01:44:17
Combining items 1 and 2approved
The April and May MFMA in-year reports were combined for debate at the DA's request, with the executive agreeing.
- 02:20:20
Items 1 and 2: MFMA in-year financial reports for April and May 2026approved
The Speaker asked whether council noted both reports and then moved to the next item.
- 02:40:26
Conduct in the chamber: filming during debateobjection recorded
The Speaker fined Cllrs Nkomo, Coutriers and Radebe R1,000 each, payable the following day.
- 02:55:44
Item 3: adoption of the Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Governmentapproved
The Speaker asked whether the recommendations were agreed to and the house answered 'Agreed'.
- 03:15:03
Item 4: Public participation outcomes report 2026-27noted
The Speaker asked whether the item was noted, as the report was for information, and moved on.
- 03:17:51
Removal of Cllr Da Rocha for disrupting proceedingscouncillor removed
The Speaker ordered security to remove Cllr Da Rocha from the chamber for disruption.
- 03:22:29
Fines for disorderly conductfines imposed
The Speaker announced R1,000 fines payable the next day on councillors, including one addressed as Cllr Rambani, over filming and disruption.
- 04:01:38
Item 37: Rescission and re-advertisement of Executive Director Human Settlementsapproved
The house agreed to the recommendations on page 37.6 and the Speaker declared the item through.
- 04:30:40
DA motion without notice to postpone item 38rejected
On a show of hands the motion drew 82 yes, 110 no and 2 abstentions, so item 38 proceeded.
- 04:54:46
Item 38: Recruitment and appointment of Head of Department Public Safetyapproved
The Speaker ruled the yeses had it after a voice vote with audible 'no' calls on the recommendations on pages 38.11 to 38.12.
- 04:56:28
Item 38: Dissent under Rule 84objection recorded
The DA, FF Plus, ACDP and ActionSA asked that their opposition to the appointment be recorded, and the Speaker noted it.
- 04:56:40
Adjournment for lunchadjourned
The Speaker adjourned the sitting for lunch, to resume at 15:30.
- 06:04:06
Item 5: Security Access Restriction by-lawsapproved
The Speaker asked whether the item was agreed and moved on with no objection recorded in the transcript.
- 06:36:09
Item 6: Acceptance of Global Environment Facility grant funding (with DBSA)approved
Council agreed to accept the GEF grant of about US$3 million, with a co-financing commitment of about US$6.5 million.
- 06:44:46
Item 7: Egoli Gas price determination methodology July 2026 to June 2031approved
The item was agreed without recorded objection after the party speakers and MMC Sekwaila.
- 06:47:13
Item 8: Egoli Gas 2026/27 tariffsapproved
The item was agreed after parties noted the report.
- 07:04:27
Item 9: Public participation notice for Rea Vaya Phase 1A Bus Operating Company Agreementapproved
After a roll call on a show of hands, the count was 112 yes, 42 no and 3 abstentions.
- 07:05:01
Item 9: DA dissentobjection recorded
Cllr Christians objected to the roll-call procedure and asked that DA opposition be recorded under Rule 84; the Speaker noted the dissent.
- 07:11:04
Item 10: Repeal of redundant Human Settlements policiesapproved
The item was agreed after ActionSA and the ANC supported it and MMC Mabaso asked for approval.
- 07:46:19
Items 11 and 12: Development sales of Fairland erven (Erf 1226 portions and Erf 1202)approved
The Speaker declared that the yeses had it despite shouts of no.
- 07:47:05
Items 11 and 12: DA oppositionobjection recorded
Cllr Christians recorded the DA's opposition under Rule 84, citing an incomplete report and the council resolution against land sales; the Speaker noted it.
- 07:53:18
Item 13: Proposed sale of Portion 19 of Erf 491, Ivory Park Extension 7approved
The item was agreed after party speakers and MMC Mnisi's request for approval.
- 08:09:14
Item 14: Implementation plan for the Township Economies By-lawapproved
The item was agreed after the debate and MMC Mnisi's response.
- 08:39:10
Items 15 and 16: Region A and Region E Regional Economic Development Plans, Investment Atlases and Implementation Plansapproved
Council agreed to both plans after MMC Mnisi asked for approval.
- 09:03:06
Item 47: Implementation of the Alderman policyapproved
Agreed with the Christians amendments (Honorary Alderman wording for former councillors), with the Chair of Chairs in agreement and further councillors still to be verified.
- 09:05:26
Items 22 to 28: Oversight visit reportsapproved
The Speaker read the recommendation pages for all seven reports and they were agreed with no speakers.
Attendance and conduct
140Who was away and why, as said in the chamber.
Apologies read out 69
- Private business (5)
- Mpolobosho, Makhuba, Libo Ndou*, Chabalala, Sifumba
- Party business (21)
- Mokwena, Eric Nkomo, Khanyile*, Koma, Kunene, Dlanjwa, Niemand*, Hughes*, Shawe, Dewes, Stuart Marais, Bittkau, Mnisi*, Rambani, Jonker, Mkhonto, Prince Mohlala, Themba Mabunda, Mokoka, Moticoe, Tsoadi
- Leaving early (14)
- Pelzer, Mogapi, Paul Mokoena, Zungu, Masuku*, Modupi, Maluleka, Sherman, Jacobs*, Finn, Deppe, Shackleford, Stewart*, Coutriers
- No reason given (1)
- Manganyi
- Arriving late (12)
- Mabidilala, Smouse, Zigebe, Magwentshu, Shange, Mhlari, Ndzondo, Ngoepe, Nkubungu, Madiba, Jacobs*, Shai
- Bereavement (1)
- Mafuma
- Family responsibility (1)
- Munyayi
* Name as heard; not matched to exactly one councillor.
MMC or Mayor not present for their business 6
- 01:05:46
Morero: Executive Mayor absent so questions to the Mayor were deferred to the next day.
- 03:07:03
Morero: A speaker referred to the Executive Mayor as absent from the sitting.
- 03:56:28
Zungu: Another MMC responded for MMC Zungu on the Corporate and Shared Services item.
- 05:51:57
The chair asked where the executive was before resuming business.
- 06:03:14
Kunene: The MMC responsible for item 5 appears not to have been present; MMC Amad responded and said he would pass on the inputs.
- 06:53:03
Mabaso: MMC Mabaso did not respond on item 9; chair then called MMC Mgcina to respond.
Not present when called 14
- 00:55:10
Mabaso: MMC was briefly not in his seat when called, then responded.
- 01:27:06
Ndlela: Chair looked for her; the Chair of Chairs said she was outside gathering councillors.
- 02:36:46
Nonhlanhla Radebe: Chair asked whether she was present; the next recorded speech is at 02:37:38.
- 03:39:12
Nhlapo: The chair called Nhlapo and no response is recorded.
- 04:45:11
Nhlapo: Nhlapo was not present to speak and another EFF councillor stood in.
- 05:52:38
Rohlssen: Rohlssen was called for item five and was absent; another ACDP councillor took over.
- 05:57:23
Thema: Chair called Cllr Thema to speak on item 5 and the councillor was not present.
- 05:57:23
Komane: Chair called Cllr Komane to speak on item 5 and the councillor was not present.
- 06:14:47
Hlengiwe Masuku: Another councillor rose and said they would speak on behalf of Cllr Masuku.
- 06:47:55
Rohlssen: Cllr Rohlssen was not in the chamber for item 9; another ACDP councillor spoke in his place.
- 06:52:34
Maake: The next speaker said 'he's not here' and noted the report for the ANC.
- 07:24:55
Xulu: Cllr Xulu was not present; an ActionSA councillor spoke instead on items 11 and 12.
- 07:25:23
Dladla: Cllr Dladla was not present; Cllr Moepi spoke for the EFF.
- 07:30:01
Kwapeng: Cllr Mulelu said he would speak on behalf of Cllr Kwapeng.
Warned or stopped by the chair 39
- 00:05:07
Unnamed councillor: Chair told two councillors at the back to sit.
- 00:41:30
D Steenkamp: Chair told two councillors to switch off their microphones.
- 00:41:30
Sehoai: Chair told two councillors to switch off their microphones.
- 01:03:09
Raphadu*: Chair told him the matter was closed.
- 01:25:12
Echeozonjoku: Chair called her to order while drums were playing.
- 01:27:38
Koma: Chair told the MMC to come in quickly.
- 01:32:03
Jacobs*: Chair reproached members for noise while she tried to hear the speaker.
- 01:32:53
Kaldine: Chair repeatedly called her and said she was not listening.
- 01:37:32
Mmbengwa: Chair asked her to switch off microphones.
- 02:08:41
Zitha: Chair warned of remaining speaking time.
- 02:21:02
Wissler: Chair told her to switch off her microphone.
- 02:40:26
Nkomo*: Fined R1,000 for taking videos in the chamber.
- 02:40:26
Coutriers: Fined R1,000 for taking videos in the chamber.
- 02:49:38
Rakosa: Chair told her to switch off her microphone.
- 03:17:05
Da Rocha: The Speaker warned Da Rocha for disrupting and then ordered his removal from the chamber.
- 03:19:59
Santana: The chair told Santana to switch off his microphone.
- 03:22:22
Rambani: The chair told Rambani to stop filming and then fined him R1,000.
- 03:26:43
Hlengiwe Masuku: The chair told the ActionSA councillor to switch off her microphone during another councillor's speech.
- 03:36:28
Mabelebele: The chair told Mabelebele to sit down while she was speaking on the wrong item.
- 03:38:31
Raphadu*: The chair told Raphadu to stop and withdraw a remark about breathalyzers.
- 03:45:19
Mzolo: The chair told Mzolo to sit down after a point of order about his remarks.
- 03:52:04
Mzolo: The chair asked Mzolo to stop insulting and withdraw the word clowns; he withdrew it.
- 03:54:06
Mzolo: The chair warned Mzolo to use parliamentary language and later asked him to withdraw Dysfunctional Alliance; he withdrew it.
- 04:13:38
Raphadu*: The chair ordered Raphadu to sit down during the dispute over the motion without notice.
- 04:32:05
Maila: The chair stopped Maila's declaration of vote after the vote had been taken.
- 04:49:12
Deppe: The chair told Deppe to switch off her microphone.
- 06:02:31
Supe: Chair asked Cllr Supe to withdraw his 'no-go area' remark; he then withdrew it.
- 06:13:20
Chuma: Chair ordered Cllr Chuma to switch off an open microphone.
- 06:13:20
Moatshe: Chair ordered Cllr Moatshe to switch off an open microphone.
- 06:30:52
Unnamed councillor: Chair gave a speaking-time warning during an item 6 debate speech.
- 06:32:16
Karolia: Chair told Cllr Karolia to switch off an open microphone.
- 06:47:15
Mathe*: Chair told Cllr Mathe to switch off an open microphone.
- 06:55:47
Raphadu*: Chair rebuked Cllr Raphadu for commenting after he had asked for a roll call.
- 07:07:44
Moloisane*: Chair stopped the proceedings to rebuke Cllr Moloisane during Cllr Mavhona's speech.
- 07:19:52
Schay: Chair reprimanded Cllr Schay for playing games on the chamber screen.
- 07:44:26
Christians: Chair corrected Cllr Christians' point about an EFF resolution on property sales.
- 07:49:58
Nomoya Mnisi: Chair told MMC Mnisi to stop distracting the EFF speaker.
- 08:48:23
Mposula: Chair queried why Cllr Mposula's microphone was on.
- 09:00:15
Seerane: Chair told Cllr Seerane to switch off an open microphone.
Sound or equipment problem 11
- 01:39:34
The seconder had a microphone problem that then resolved.
- 02:28:35
Wax*: Speaker was hard to hear.
- 02:57:11
Mkhonza*: Speaker could not be heard and was asked to use the microphone.
- 02:47:00
Chair said the air conditioning was being worked on.
- 03:06:38
A councillor at the podium had microphone or machine problems before speaking.
- 03:24:08
The chair said the air-conditioning was being worked on.
- 04:35:24
Lotz*: Lotz had difficulty with the microphone at the podium.
- 04:43:33
A microphone at Gwamanda's seat was switched on by someone else.
- 05:49:31
The chair asked for the air-conditioning to be fixed as the meeting resumed.
- 07:06:57
Mavhona*: Chair asked Cllr Mavhona to speak into the microphone.
- 08:39:12
Chair responded to reports that the live stream had stopped, saying it was still running.
Not ready when called 1
- 03:37:31
Mabelebele: Mabelebele spoke on item 38 while item 37 was before council.
Transcript
1517Every line, linked to the video.
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