Received:
2026-05-10 | Accepted:
2026-07-25 | Published:
2026-09-30
Title
Pathways to a merit-based recruitment system for sustainable service delivery: a South African local government perspective
Abstract
Section 152(1)(b) of the South African Constitution mandates local government to “ensure the provision of services to communities in a sustainable manner.” This constitutional responsibility is hindered by political interference, cadre deployment, nepotism, and severe capacity shortages, resulting in persistent service delivery protests and poor municipal performance. This paper examines how adopting a merit-based recruitment system and professionalising the public service can enhance sustainable service delivery in South African local government. The study employs the Person–Job Fit Theory as a theoretical lens, utilising secondary data analysis and a narrative literature review. Empirical evidence from 2020–2025 is drawn from Statistics South Africa, the Auditor-General, the Department of Cooperative Governance, and peer-reviewed research to evaluate service delivery performance and human resource practices. Findings reveal significant capacity deficits: many municipal officials lack required competencies; municipalities rely heavily on consultants for financial management; and governance failures manifest in widespread protests and adverse audit outcomes. The adoption of the 2022 National Framework towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector indicates a policy shift towards meritocracy. Transparent, competitive hiring and promotion based on qualifications and performance can strengthen accountability, efficiency, and service quality. Prioritising merit over political affiliation is essential to building institutional capacity and restoring public trust in local government. The paper positions meritocracy as a structural reform imperative for achieving South Africa’s developmental goals. It recommends strict enforcement of merit-based appointments, continuous skills development, and adherence to governance standards to foster a capable, ethical, and service-oriented municipal sector.
Keywords
local government, service delivery, meritocracy, professionalisation, capacity, South Africa
JEL classifications
H11
URI
http://jssidoi.org/ird/article/275
DOI
Pages
174-193
Funding
This is an open access issue and all published articles are licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
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