Public Affairs (PUA 115D) - Batho Pele and Local Government

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the Batho Pele principles, constitutional frameworks for public administration, and the structures of South African government spheres.

Consultation

The principle that citizens should be consulted about the level and quality of public services they receive and be given a choice about offered services whenever possible.

Service Standards

Clearly defined levels of quality, quantity, time, and cost for public services so that citizens are aware of what to expect, such as receiving an ID book in 6 weeks.

Access

The requirement to identify and remove physical, distance, or cultural barriers to ensure all citizens, especially those with disabilities or in rural areas, have equal access to services.

Courtesy

Treating the recipients of public services with politeness and consideration, as outlined in codes of conduct and monitored through complaints handling systems.

Information

Providing citizens with full, accurate, and unbiased reporting about public services in a manner most suited to the needs and convenience of the users.

Openness and transparency

The disclosure of how public institutions are run, how much they cost, and who is in charge, conceptualized as the public's access to and usage of such information.

Redress

The obligation to apologize, explain, and provide a speedy remedy when promised standards of service are not delivered or when mistakes are made.

Value for money

Providing public services economically and efficiently to ensure the best possible value for citizens while effectively utilizing scarce municipal resources.

Section 195 of the Constitution of RSA

The section outlining democratic values and principles for public administration, including professional ethics, accountability, and impartial service provision.

Category C (District municipalities)

Municipalities made up of a number of local municipalities (usually four to six), such as the Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo.

Category B (Local municipalities)

Municipalities established within district municipalities where residents are represented by ward councillors and proportional representation councillors.

Category A (Metropolitan municipalities)

Municipalities established based on high population density and economic activities, including areas like the City of Johannesburg and City of Cape Town.

Section 152 of the Constitution of RSA

The section specifying the objects of local government, including providing accountable government and ensuring sustainable service provision.

National Assembly

A component of Parliament made up of members elected every five years who approve laws and policies.

Director General

The official who heads a government department and employs directors and public servants to implement laws and policies.

Premier

The head of a provincial government who has the power to appoint and reshuffle MECs.

Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL)

Elected officials in the provincial sphere, with each legislature consisting of between 30 and 90 members.

MEC

The political head of a provincial department.

Municipal Manager

The head of municipal administration who is responsible for employing staff and co-ordinating the implementation of programmes approved by the Council.