The Dynamics of Government of National Unity on Local Government in South Africa

 

By Avin Bhola and Paul Kariuki,

 

The formation of South Africa's 2024 Government of National Unity (GNU) has brought about possible significant changes and challenges to local governments. This article explores the impact of this political shift on service delivery, governance, and community engagement at the local level.

Photo: Pixabay. 

South Africa witnessed the establishment of a Government of National Unity (GNU), a coalition to address national challenges through collaborative governance. This model is repeated at the nine provincial levels throughout the country.  While this move has been lauded for its potential to bring stability and inclusive decision-making, its effects on local governments are multifaceted and profound.

Strictly speaking, the elections should not affect local government as it is a separate and distinct level of government.  The lack of service delivery is an ongoing concern for ratepayers who are seen to be at the mercy of fragile coalitions and power struggles between the national, provincial, and local tiers of government.

The GNU is leading to a reshuffling of political power at local levels, with coalition dynamics influencing council decisions and policy implementations. This has both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, there is a probability of increased collaboration between parties can lead to more comprehensive and balanced policies. Better oversight on policy formulation, implementation, and governance. On the other hand, political infighting and power struggles may delay decision-making and service delivery. Parties will compromise on their election promises to keep their coalition partners happy.

There are several notable positive influences of GNU on service delivery, namely:

Improved Funding: Central government support can increase, aiming to bolster local infrastructure and services. Those parties not having a presence at local level and an influence at the national and provincial level will allocate funding to suit their party objectives. This will happen more with funding coming from the provincial level. This will enhance the parties' image and put them in good stead for the forthcoming 2026 municipal elections. However, there are potential delays in decision making while parties consult for consensus on budget review and approvals.  Furthermore, approved projects might be changed to appease the majority parties at the provincial level.

Furthermore, governance structures will see a shift towards more inclusive and participatory models. This has implications for transparency and accountability.  This move suggests that there will be enhanced oversight, promoting checks and balances toward greater accountability. All political parties irrespective of their representation in the GNU, must support the collective notion of enforcing accountability and focusing attention on easing the administrative burden that comes with managing complex political dynamics associated with GNU.

 

Moreover, the GNU emphasises the importance of community involvement in governance. Increased citizen and civil society participation is critical towards entrenching greater accountability and transparency in all its dealings. Efforts to involve communities in decision-making have been acknowledged by all parties, and the onus is now on the GNU members to actualize this commitment.

On the civil society side, it is an opportune moment for the sector to commence holding their local council accountable immediately. This must be done in tandem with holding the provincial and national governments accountable. The political parties are fully aware that the electorate is not going to let parties take them for a ride and not deliver on the campaign promises. This bodes well for the electorate to enhance its oversight role.

In conclusion, the 2024 elections has brought both opportunities and challenges for local governments in South Africa. While there are positive strides in collaboration and community engagement, the complexities of coalition politics can hinder swift decision-making and efficient service delivery. Moving forward, local governments must navigate these dynamics carefully to ensure that the benefits of the GNU are fully realized at the grassroots level. Furthermore, improving local governance under the GNU requires ongoing efforts to balance political interests, enhance community involvement, and make administrative processes accountable. By addressing these challenges, South Africa can strengthen its local governments and ensure better service delivery for all its citizens.

 

Dr. Paul Kariuki is the Executive Director of the Democracy Development Program (DDP). Avin Bhola is the coordinator of the Local Governance and Advocacy Learning Network (LGALN) consisting of 80 civil society organsiations in the Durban area and the chairman of Kwenzokuhle Community Organisation.