Abstract:
This article examines the importance of Quangos and Chapter 9 Institutions in the
governance of the state. It explores the leadership dilemmas and progress made
by many African countries since independence of individual nation states. The
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 has established six independent
state institutions, which contribute to supporting constitutional democracy. These
six institutions are namely; the Public Protector, the South African Human Rights
Commission (HRC), the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the
Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (the CRL Commission),
the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), the Auditor-General and the Electoral
Commission. This article will discuss the intricacies of the term ‘quango’, as there
are varied definitions of the concept, which can ultimately impact the application
of the term. An international perspective will be viewed to emphasis the myriad
of organisations and bodies that may fall under the common heading of quango.
Also, a historical overview of quangos will be provided. In addition, an analysis
of the issues of accountability and autonomy surrounding the existence of such
public bodies will be provided. In-depth synopsis of the relationship quangos have
in relation to chapter 9 Institutions and State-Owned Enterprises in South Africa
will be explored. One common misconception is the idea that quangos are new
phenomena; the use of such bodies is hardly new.
