Political Leadership and Decision-Making in Times of Crises: A Case Study of the Ramaphosa Administration 2020-2021

Abstract

This qualitative and exploratory case study investigated the perceptions of academic experts and political actors on President Ramaphosa's political leadership and decision-making processes during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. The study found that political leaders must demonstrate control, critical thinking, effective communication, composure, and methodical crisis response during pandemics to inspire confidence in their populations. President Ramaphosa exhibited some of these crisis leadership traits during the pandemic, such as maintaining visibility, communicating openly, and incorporating medical experts' advice into his decision-making processes. However, the study found that the president fell short in some areas, such as his perceived lack of consistently resolute and decisive political leadership.

The establishment of structures such as the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) was found to be in accordance with both the Disaster Management legislation and the Constitution of South Africa. However, the study found mixed reactions from the populace, with some perceiving the decision-making and response measures guided by this legislation as being methodical, coordinated, and systematic, while others viewed the same decisions as being excessively cumbersome, and disorderly.

The study highlights the importance of political leadership during pandemics and the need for methodical crisis response. The findings have implications for future public health emergencies and the selection of appropriate legislative frameworks, while also making recommendations for future research