Original Research

The influence of unstable coalition governments in Gauteng metropolitan municipalities

Martin Pholoma, Stellah Lubinga, Tyanai Masiya, Onkgopotse S. Madumo
Journal of Local Government Research and Innovation | Vol 5 | a195 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/jolgri.v5i0.195 | © 2024 Martin Pholoma, Stellah Lubinga, Tyanai Masiya, Onkgopotse S. Madumo | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 25 March 2024 | Published: 07 August 2024

About the author(s)

Martin Pholoma, School of Public Management and Administration, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
Stellah Lubinga, School of Public Management and Administration, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
Tyanai Masiya, School of Public Management and Administration, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
Onkgopotse S. Madumo, School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, College of Business and Economics, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Coalition governments involve multiple political parties uniting to govern because of the absence of a majority party in the council following electoral outcomes. In South Africa, coalitions have become much more common since the 2016 and 2021 local government elections.

Aim: This study investigates the implications of unstable coalition governments on municipal administration within the Gauteng metropolitan municipalities.

Setting: The study focused on the City of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, and the City of Johannesburg metropolitan municipalities in the Gauteng Province of South Africa.

Methods: Employing a qualitative approach with a case study design, this research draws upon secondary sources and employs thematic analysis for a comprehensive examination of data.

Results: The findings underscore that unstable coalition governments exert multifaceted effects on municipal administration in Gauteng. Firstly, they erode the foundational principles of democratic and accountable governance. Secondly, the instability adversely affects the provision of essential services. Thirdly, the process of budget formulation and approval is compromised. Fourthly, the precarious nature of political coalitions jeopardises creating a safe and healthy municipal environment and contributes to hung councils. Fifthly, municipal human resource practices are negatively influenced, alongside challenges in effectively managing municipal funds.

Conclusion: There is a critical need for government and municipalities to institute effective legislation and policies addressing the challenges associated with unstable coalition governments in order to foster stability, promoting democratic values and ensuring efficient municipal administration within the Gauteng metropolitan context.

Contribution: The study makes key recommendations for improving municipal administration under coalition councils in South Africa’s metros.


Keywords

administration; coalitions; Gauteng; municipalities; South Africa

JEL Codes

D78: Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation; J18: Public Policy; J38: Public Policy

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities

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