An Investigation into Ethical Leadership in Municipalities: The South African Perspective

Ethical leadership has undoubtedly become a mantra for modern and global leadership styles that should characterize every modern and global leader. However, the current spate of unethical behaviors and corruption scandals across both public and private sector companies necessitates a closer look at the concept of ethical leadership itself with a view to help organizations embrace it. It is for this reason that this study investigated ethical leadership in South African municipalities. It looked at theoretical constructs of ethical leadership and the value systems that go with it. It used qualitative research design and employed semi-structured interviews to elicit information from municipal managers and senior managers in local government across South Africa. The study concluded that it is extremely difficult to practise ethical leadership in municipalities especially because the environment is not conducive and safe for ethical leaders.