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Public-sector transformation in South Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Philip Wenzel

    (Philip Wenzel is Public Sector Consultant and Senior Lecturer, Graduate School of Public and Development Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa)

Abstract

This paper uses post-apartheid development and structural adjustment policies as macro-case studies for investigating the politics of service delivery during the first decade of democracy in South Africa. It provides a sobering outlook on South Africa's development and democratisation potential by analysing emerging modes of governance, specifically looking at (the failure of ) nation building, the autocratic leadership style of the new politico-administrative elite, and the overall ineffectiveness of managerialist public sector reforms. The criticism is directed towards cognitive biases in the political culture, and the danger of overall development failure, resulting from ineffectual management and regulatory politics.

Suggested Citation

  • Philip Wenzel, 2007. "Public-sector transformation in South Africa," Progress in Development Studies, , vol. 7(1), pages 47-64, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:prodev:v:7:y:2007:i:1:p:47-64
    DOI: 10.1177/146499340600700105
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Sabatier, Paul A., 1986. "Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches to Implementation Research: a Critical Analysis and Suggested Synthesis," Journal of Public Policy, Cambridge University Press, vol. 6(1), pages 21-48, January.
    2. Stephen H. Linder & B. Guy Peters, 1987. "A Design Perspective On Policy Implementation: The Fallacies Of Misplaced Prescription," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 6(3), pages 459-475, February.
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