Challenges of public participation in local government: a case study of a township in the Cape Metropole

Abstract

This study explored the role of public involvement or participation in enhancing service delivery within Langa Township in Cape Town. The exploration investigated the encounters affecting public contribution to community governance, precisely concentrating on the collaboration between communal representatives and municipal officials. A qualitative research methodology was used to conduct interviews with 56 participants, involving community members, ward committee members, and local government officials. The study revealed a noteworthy disconnect between metropolitan officials and the community of Langa, as shown by insufficient consultation, inadequate public meetings, and an absence of precision when delivering services. Major problems such as blocked waste pipes, poor or lack of waste management, housing deficiencies, and insensitive councillors were noted to aggravate community discontent and fuel community riots. The study identified various obstacles to successful public input, involving poor communiqué channels, limited feedback from metropolitan authorities, and the exclusion of the community from policymaking procedures. The research stresses the function of councillors and ward committees regarding improving public involvement and their restrictions. Grounded on the standards of participatory democracy, the research underscores the necessity for having the input of the community members when it comes to voicing out their concerns and when municipalities make decisions pertaining to the governance of the community to allow them to have their input. Recommendations were proposed to improve public participation, involving enhanced consultation systems, capability-building for community officials, and enhanced communication approaches to link the differences between locals and metropolitan authorities. The findings provide valuable comprehension for community leaders, legislators and municipal officials pursuing advanced service delivery in Cape Metropole townships like Langa and other comparable townships. https://doi.org/10.1109/MIPRO60963.2024.10569532