Exploring Possible Interventions into Dysfunctional Local Government in Gauteng

The report discusses the critical role of local government in South Africa’s constitutional framework, where municipalities are expected to operate effectively with limited oversight (PDF, 2.01KB). However, many municipalities face severe dysfunction, including poor governance, financial crises, and service delivery failures, threatening residents' constitutional rights and the democratic system. Despite government efforts, these problems persist and worsen, indicating that current accountability and support mechanisms are insufficient. The Johannesburg Crisis Alliance has proposed three possible interventions to address these challenges: changing the municipal governance system, provincial government intervention, or dissolving municipal councils to hold new elections. This report analyses these intervention options in terms of their legal basis, practical application, strengths, weaknesses, and likely effectiveness in addressing municipal dysfunction in Gauteng province.

Abstract based on original source.