Abstract
The relationship between identity politics and urban planning has increasingly become a critical field of study where historical spatial imbalances continue to have influence on municipal government and service delivery (Robinson, 1996; Harrison, 2006; Harrison, et al., 2008; Alexander, 2010; Turok, 2012) . This research examines identity politics and urban planning utilising a case study of Thulamela Local Municipality which experienced violent protests in 2015 due to dissatisfaction of service delivery, poor governance and social exclusion. The protests were initiated by Xitsonga-speaking people residing in Malamulele which ultimately resulted to the establishment of Collins Chabane Local Municipality in 2016. The study explores how identity politics is both influenced and influence spatial planning and related development in Thulamela Local Municipality.
To gather, examine and interpret data, the study applied qualitative research approach in order to provide invaluable insights of the phenomenon under exploration. The study included Thirty (30) participants who made up the study’s sample size. The data was analysed utilising MAXQDA where key themes and subthemes emerged. The key themes include historical grievances; service delivery disparities perceptions; challenges for sustainable governance and urban planning; political leadership; and mobilisation of the Venda-Tsonga speaking people relationship. The findings indicates that the apartheid era legacies continue to shape local municipal decisions and its outcomes. Therefore, this study highlights the need for proactive strategies and recommendations to close the gap between municipal governance structures and marginalised communities. By tackling these problems, policy makers and urban planners can work towards fostering a spatially just and more intergrated urban environment that is more inclusive and responsive to all communities’ needs. Lastly, this research not only provides insights into the context of South African setting but also offers valuable lessons for other, worldwide multicultural societies facing the same identity-based spatial inequalities.