Navigating Coalition Dynamics in the City of Johannesburg

Abstract

This chapter offers a theoretical analysis of coalition politics in South Africa, with a focus on the City of Johannesburg's Metropolitan Municipality. It uses Claude Lefort's political theories to examine the fluctuating dynamics of political power in the nation's coalition governments, particularly at the local government level. The chapter traces the emergence and instability of coalitions, highlighted by the African National Congress' (ANC) loss of majority and the subsequent power shifts in Johannesburg. These changes, including the formation of different coalition arrangements and the 2021 Local Government Elections' outcomes, reflect the unstable nature of coalitions in South Africa. The chapter aims to discuss the impacts of these coalitions on governance quality and service delivery, addressing the broader socio-political and economic challenges of the country. Two case studies, focusing on fiscal management and trust in Johannesburg's coalition government, will provide deeper insights into the practical implications of such political arrangements.