Abstract

ELOFF, Daniël. Mayoral term limits in South Africa. Afr. hum. rights law j. [online]. 2025, vol.25, n.2, pp.691-715. ISSN 1996-2096.  https://doi.org/10.17159/1996-2096/2025/v25n2a9.

This article explores mayoral term limits in South Africa. The Structures Act, which governs the functioning of local municipalities, outlines specific provisions regarding the tenure of mayors and executive mayors. These provisions allow for a maximum of two consecutive terms in office but leave open the possibility of serving additional non-consecutive terms after a hiatus. The article examines the legislative intent behind these provisions, comparing them to the term limits imposed on other executive offices at national and provincial levels, such as the presidency and premiership. Through a textual and contextual interpretation, the article argues that the Structures Act deliberately permits the return of experienced leadership while maintaining the democratic principles of leadership rotation and accountability. Additionally, it draws comparisons with international practices, highlighting the diversity in approaches to mayoral term limits across different democratic systems. The discussion underscores the unique role that local government plays in South Africa's political landscape and the importance of balancing continuity with the renewal of leadership at the municipal level.

Keywords : mayoral term limits; local government; Municipal Structures Act; executive mayors; democracy; Constitution; legislative intent; public law; mayors; municipalities.

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