Abstract
M.A.
The central problem this research addresses is to establish if the Presidential
Public Participation Programme (izimbizo/imbizo) constitutes a form of
participatory policy analysis and policy evaluation as proposed in the general
policy literature. The izimbizo programme is uniquely suited to meet the
requirements of the (South) African context. Post-positivism provides a different
approach through policy analysis, especially in relation to valuative and
normative approaches. The research is furthermore applied, as it seeks to
improve the application and existing practice around organising the izimbizo.
The research proposes the extension of the use of the programme beyond that of
merely a communication tool, into the realm of the policy process.
The objectives of this dissertation were to provide an overview of the concept of
izimbizo as a deliberative approach to policy making, focusing particularly on the
evaluation process. The research systematically explores how the izimbizo is
operationalised. It provides an overview of the international trends and
international examples of successful participatory methods. Consideration is
given as to how information at different stages of the policy cycle may be used
for improving policy making. The research further explores existing research on
public participation as well as the theory regarding deliberative approaches as a
more recent mechanism for policy analysis in a democratic milieu. The benefits
as well as limitations to using the izimbizo as a deliberative approach in the
policy process as well as in policy monitoring and evaluation in general are
explored.
The study also provided a strong case for developing a clear social contract
through the use of participatory programmes such as the izimbizo in order to
develop citizenship and to create a positive role for sophisticated accountability.