Assessing the legal framework for service delivery in the Vhembe District Municipality

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of the legal frameworks on municipal service delivery in Vhembe District Municipality. In this study, the researchers added a body of knowledge on scholarly literature on the effectiveness of legal frameworks on the municipal service delivery. Most studies focus on describing and explaining how legal frameworks in the municipality operates. A qualitative approach was adopted whereby a questionnaire with open-ended questions was used to collect data from knowledgeable participants. Purposive sampling was used to select seventeen (17) respondents in this study. 8 Ward councilors, 1 Municipal Finance Manager, 1 Corporate manager, 1 Municipal manager, 4 Ward committees, 1 Integrated Development Plan Manager and 1 transport manager. The total respondents were 17. Data was analysed by means of Thematic content analysis. The findings reflect that, even in the chosen local municipality, the South African government provides various legal frameworks to support provision of services. Political influence and corruption compromise effectiveness of legal frameworks on service delivery since politicians do not comply with the municipal service delivery legal frameworks. Comrades without qualifications are selected for senior positions that require certain qualifications and skills, and this affects services delivery to communities. The study recommended that compliance on legal frameworks is deemed necessary for quality service delivery.