Traditional Authorities and State Functions in South Africa: A Complex Relationship of Private Participation?

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2023/v26i0a16229

Keywords:

traditional leaders, customary law, traditional authority, state functions, private participation, public-private partnerships, democratisation

Abstract

This contribution explores the relationship between traditional authorities and state functions in South Africa. The authors argue that traditional leaders, while not organs of the state, have functions similar to state functions, especially on a local government level. The authors suggest that this relationship can be characterised as a form of private participation in exercising state functions, although it does not amount to full privatisation. The recognition of traditional law systems in the Constitution and relevant legislation provides a legal basis for this relationship. The authors also examine the role of public-private agreements in enhancing legal certainty and clarity. Finally, the authors consider the potential benefits of transforming traditional authorities into state organs, aiming to promote the development of traditional communities and enhance the delivery of essential services.

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Author Biographies

  • Christa Rautenbach, Faculty of Law at the North-West University

    B Iuris (cum laude), LLB (cum laude), LLM, LLD (PU). Professor Faculty of Law, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa. Email: christa.rautenbach@nwu.ac.za.

  • Gerrit Ferreira, North-West University

    B Iuris LLB (PUCHE) LLM (RAU) LLD (UNISA) LLD (PUCHE). Professor Extraordinary, Faculty of Law, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, South Africa.

References

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Published

23-11-2023

Issue

Section

Special Edition: Land & Customary Law

How to Cite

Rautenbach, C., & Ferreira, G. (2023). Traditional Authorities and State Functions in South Africa: A Complex Relationship of Private Participation?. Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal, 26, (Published on 23 November 2023) pp 1 - 38. https://doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2023/v26i0a16229

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