Public Participation
latest news & developments
Minding the language gap: Why ordinary citizens are thrown under the train
The Botmaskop dispute in Stellenbosch reveals a significant gap between what authorities intend, what they write, and what the public can reasonably understand. This article…
KZN coastal communities demand withdrawal of SA Lithium mine expansion over legal, environmental concerns
A coalition of KwaZulu-Natal coastal organisations is calling for the withdrawal of SA Lithium’s Highbury Mine expansion near Umzumbe, citing alleged legal flaws, water risks,…
‘Zombie’ nuclear project: Nuclear-1 environmental authorisation faces legal battle
Environmental justice organisations have launched a high court challenge against Eskom’s proposed Nuclear-1 power station, arguing that the 2017 environmental authorisation,…
Six candidates shortlisted to lead NPA when Shamila Batohi’s term ends in January
Interviews for the shortlisted candidates will take place on 10 and 11 December, and the public is invited to submit comments on the nominees
Ramaphosa: National Dialogue will launch ‘a million conversations’ about SA’s problems
President Cyril Ramaphosa put a brave face on Friday to legacy foundations and opposition parties boycotting a convention to kick off a National Dialogue on how to resolve South…
Joburg Crisis Alliance questions ‘quick wins’ focus of presidential working group
Civil society says officials should break the cycle of grand promises and weak follow-through if Johannesburg is to be rebuilt into a world-class city
e-Services in South Africa exacerbate inequality through digital barriers
Challenges detract from technology’s potential to allow users to engage with structures of political and public life, leaving many without a say
Building a people-powered plan for South Africa through national dialogue
A national dialogue offers the opportunity to unite South Africans around a common vision, thereby giving rise to a people of national unity
Public urged to comment on General Municipal Bill, which could extend timeline for fixing irregular appointments
The Bill, open for comment until 31 August, proposes an extension of the timeframe within which irregular appointments must be rectified
Participation beyond the ballot box is essential for democracy in South Africa
Despite consultations, public hearings, and government gazettes, efforts to foster meaningful engagement beyond elections remain inadequate
MMSEZ authorities dodge every question about livelihoods threats, climate change, water scarcity and more
MMSEZ chief executive Lehlogonolo Masoga, the Limpopo Economic Development Agency and the consulting agency Enviroxcellence failed to address the concerns of people living in the…
Ramaphosa calls for public nominations for new chief justice
The president has named a panel of experts to help him draw up a shortlist of candidates in an unprecedented move that opens the appointment to consultation
Court judgment about alien fish is about more than trout wars
Judge finds that public participation in democratic processes is not the exclusive preserve of the privileged few who have access to the internet and can read English
Karpowership decision shows ‘people’s voices do count’
Refusal of project shows there is ‘no space for tick-box exercises’ by environmental consultants
Oral submissions to inquiry on local government elections start next week
The hearings will be open to the media and the public, under strict level-three regulations