An Analysis of Democracy, Democratisation and Governance in Ward 01 of Hlanganani Cluster of Collins Chabane Local Municipality of South Africa.

South Africa attained its constitutional democracy in 1994 from a contemporary political order that has been shaped by the country's history of colonialism, segregation, less or no service delivery to black communities, and apartheid. Since the inception of the second decade of democracy, the country has experienced numerous service delivery protests, raises brings doubt about whether or not democracy exists in South Africa. The current study was carried out in Hlanganani Cluster in Collins Chabane Local Municipality. A qualitative research methodology that utilised a phenomenological research design was used to investigate democracy, democratisation and governance in the Hlanganani Cluster. A sample of 15 respondents from the area participated in the study. The results of the study revealed that the broader definition of democracy is not familiar in the area, yet the political rhetoric one more widely embraces the concept of democracy. Hence, the challenges of poor service delivery, lack of accountability of public officials' lack of transparency, and corruption are key obstacles hindering the full realisation of democracy in the area. It is recommended that the government enhance the participation of local communities in decision making, encourage the youth, and create a democratic space for civic society to maintain checks and balances. The results of the study are also useful for crafting strategies for creating an enabling environment for democracy, democratisation, and good governance to thrive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]