Abstract
This study focused on how innovative leadership in the public sector can promote good governance. To do so, it was necessary to investigate the frameworks and legalisation of the public sector to determine why South African leaders lack innovation in their decisions and actions. It is the cause of long-lasting challenges and negative consequences, including poor governance and delivery of services in public sector and public institutions.
An extremely diverse nation, South Africa. commonly known as the Rainbow Nation because of a multitude of different cultures, languages, and practices, it also has a long history of exclusion, poverty, unemployment, and a high crime rate. It is a country like no other and, for this reason, Its issues cannot be solved in a way that works for everyone. Thus, a country as unique as South Africa requires leaders who are innovative to solve service delivery backlogs and make plans for sustainable development.
For this study, the researcher used a qualitative research methodology, as the data comprised non-numerical data, which focuses on the behaviour of those in leadership roles. The process and focus of the research were placed on the contextual variables; theoretical and conceptual variables; regulatory, and policy frameworks; innovative leadership's and good governance's importance in the public sector, challenges encountered by innovative leaders; and recommendations or strategies that can be proposed. Sources included a compilation of information available for public use, including books, articles, official documents, legislation, regulations, and research theses and dissertations.
The data analysis shows that it is difficult for those in leadership positions to be innovative when working in a public sector context that requires following rules, regulations, and policies. For instance, an official may find it difficult to be innovative when they have to follow rigid, archaic procedures and failure to do so could result in them losing their job. However, the researcher aims to demonstrate that following rules and regulations does not make innovation impossible. In fact, this study demonstrates how important it is for persons in leadership roles in South Africa, particularly in the public sector, to be creative to advance good governance.
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KEY WORDS: Role; Innovation; Leadership; Governance; Public Sector