Abstract
This study aims to investigate the existence of unethical behaviour in municipalities manifested in various forms or kinds, despite the existence of Section 195 of the South African Constitution (1996). The core focus of this study is the role played by Section 195 of the South African Constitution (1996) in promoting ethical behaviour in local government. In other words, the study looks at how the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (1996) cultivates good behaviour, because there is a likelihood of unethical behaviour happening in municipalities, specifically focusing on the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, thereby aiming to make this key South African metropolitan municipality ‘corruption free’ by offering sufficient services to community members. The research takes a qualitative research approach, which is exploratory, to realise the outcomes of the research questions formulated. This approach was deemed most suitable. The study recommends that there is a need to balance policy prescripts and implementation or practice; to prioritise codes of conduct in planning and budgeting; to improve community involvement and engagement; to establish ethical and professional leadership practices; and to consider meritorious and competency-based appointments.
M.Com. (Public Management and Governance)