The speaker of the city council, Nkele Ntingane

The Speaker is the chairperson of the council - the chief custodian and guardian of the legislative arm of the council.

The Speaker plays two important roles:

• within the council
• in building democracy

The Speaker presides over council meetings and makes sure the council meets at least every quarter. The Speaker also maintains order during meetings and ensure that such meetings are held according to the council's rules and regulations.

Another of the Speaker's duties is to assess the needs of the councillors, arrange suitable training to develop political governance capacity and improve individual skills.

In order to fulfil the role of building democracy, the Speaker manages community participation in local government, particularly through the ward committees, by ensuring they function effectively. The Speaker has to ensure public consultation, involvement and participation in the affairs of the municipality.

Office of the Speaker

Profile of the Speaker