Leveraging coalition governments in policy-making: A case study of the city of Johannesburg

Coalition governments have become prevalent across South Africa’s diverse political landscape. However, little research has explored the practical implications for policy-making within municipal administrations. This research addresses this gap by delving into the specific context of Johannesburg, South Africa. A qualitative case study design was employed, utilising a sequential mixed-methods approach that began with document analysis followed by focus group discussions. The findings suggest that formal systems embodying the coalition government are polarised and politicised. Therefore, strong negotiation skills, along with an awareness of the influence of public opinion, are essential. Policymakers also frequently depend on informal, personal relationships to circumvent the shortcomings of formal processes. The study argues for a predictable and meritocratic system that is resilient amidst inevitable political changes. The findings contribute to the broader scholarly discussion of coalition politics and highlight key implications of coalition governance for policy-making processes across local governments in Southern Africa.