The Implications of Political Floor Crossing on Development at Municipal Level: The Case of Stellenbosch Municipality

Abstract

The South African Parliament in 2002, passed legislation allowing political floor crossing that was applicable at the local government level. The major result was a shift in the balance of power in several local municipalities with some political parties losing their majority control. The study aims to examine the effects of political floor crossing on local development. The study is guided by the theory of urban politics that enhances explanations of urban centres, using Stellenbosch Municipality as a case study. The study uses the realist single-case intensive research approach. The study shows that political decision-making within council has a bearing on the developmental focus of the municipality. The newly declared majority party alliance in Stellenbosch is already bringing about a new perspective and focus on development at the local level.