An Evaluation of Effectiveness of Oversight Committees: A Case of City of Johannesburg, Section 79 Committees

Abstract

This research investigated the effectiveness of oversight committees in the City of Johannesburg, focussing on Section 79 committees which are constituted under Section 79 of the Municipal Structures Act, 1998, and which are tasked with performing oversight on departments. The problem with the separation of powers is that the performance and effectiveness of the oversight model in the City of Johannesburg Legislature (committees) has not been assessed and its performance level is still unknown. The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the oversight model in holding the executive accountable. Interviews with thirteen respondents aided the researcher to gather valuable information, understanding, and insight, into the oversight model and its reporting function at the City of Johannesburg. The research findings show shortcomings in the oversight model, which include late reports, Executive absence from committee meetings, lack of tracking and implementation of committee resolutions, lack of political will and integrated reporting framework. The study recommends that the City of Johannesburg develop an integrated reporting framework in order to assess the efficacy of the oversight model by engaging the services of retired professionals. Also, the City should develop a booklet with all relevant legislation and policies for oversight purposes.