Examining the Role of Religion in Consolidating Leadership and Governance in South Africa’s Public Sector
Master’s Dissertation
Record information
Authors
Harry Goliath
Publisher
University of the Free State
Date
Description
This study investigated the potential role of religion in shaping South Africa's political landscape, particularly in addressing challenges related to poor governance, weak ethical leadership, and systemic corruption. It examines how these factors have contributed to the growth of political instability, social inequality, and public distrust in government institutions. Drawing on comparative international examples, the study examined how religious values and frameworks can be leveraged to promote ethical leadership, enhance service delivery, and support democratic accountability. This study employed the South African Public Service (SAPUBS) as its unit of analysis, adopting a qualitative, interpretivist research paradigm. Data were generated through desktop research and analysed using Qualitative Content Analysis (QCA) to extract thematic insights. In the post-apartheid era, persistent underperformance across all spheres of government remains a critical concern. Accordingly, this research sought to explore the potential role of religion in contributing to the stabilisation and transformation of the public service. Integrating religious principles, such as ethical leadership, accountability and moral responsibility, into public sector governance, can enhance institutional performance and improve service delivery. The study thus highlighted the importance of constructive engagement between political leadership and religious institutions in fostering effective governance, strengthening administrative systems and promoting inclusive socio-economic development for all South Africans. The study concluded that religion, if inclusively and responsibly integrated, has the potential to support governance and improve service delivery. Recommendations, among others, include forming interfaith advisory councils and fostering ethical leadership while upholding constitutional principles of religious freedom and neutrality.