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21 Mar, 2025
Congratulations to Namibian's first female President on historic victory
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) extend its congratulations to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her historic election as the first female President of Namibia. This is a momentous occasion not only for Namibia but for the entire African continent, as it marks a significant step forward in the advancement of women in leadership. Her election is a testament to the strength of democracy in Namibia and the growing recognition of the vital role women play in shaping the future of our nations. We commend the people of Namibia for their commitment to progress, equality and good governance. As she takes on this important responsibility, we wish President Nandi-Ndaitwah strength, wisdom and success in leading Namibia towards greater economic growth, social justice and unity. We look forward to fostering strong relations between Namibia and South Africa as we work together for the development of our region. May her leadership inspire many more women across Africa to rise, lead and break barriers for generations to come.
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21 Mar, 2025
Human Rights Day 2025
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament As South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day, on 21 March 2025, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. This day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice, equality, and dignity in our country. The UDM has always stood for a South Africa where human rights are not just words on paper, but a lived reality for all. We remain steadfast in ensuring that every South African enjoys the rights to freedom, dignity, safety, and equal opportunities. The UDM will continue to safeguard democracy and strengthen institutions that protect human rights with our continued fight against corruption, abuse of power, and any attempts to undermine the rule of law. We will continue to fight against poverty, inequality, and unemployment by pushing for policies that promote economic inclusion, land reform, and fair wages. In a country combatting high levels of crime, we will continue our advocacy for stronger action against gender-based violence, crime, and human trafficking and a reform in the justice system as unpacked in our last election manifesto. Access to healthcare, education, water, and housing is a fundamental human right and the UDM remains committed to holding the government accountable for better service delivery. As we mark Human Rights Day, let us honour the past by working towards a better future, i.e. a South Africa where freedom, fairness, and dignity are the cornerstones of our democracy. The UDM will continue to fight for the rights of all South Africans, ensuring that our hard-won democracy benefits every citizen, not just a privileged few.
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19 Mar, 2025
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: World Recycling Day
Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Johannesburg joins the world in marking World Recycling Day - a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the environment, save resources and work towards a sustainable future. Recycling is not just about managing waste. It is about taking care of what has been entrusted to us. Many cultural and spiritual traditions teach us that the land is a precious gift. Keeping our environment clean is not only about appearance. It is about respecting nature, protecting life, and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy and liveable world. Recycling has benefits beyond just keeping our surroundings clean. It reduces landfill waste, lowers carbon emissions, saves energy and creates jobs in the green economy. A cleaner city means healthier communities, a stronger economy and a better quality of life for everyone. We encourage all residents of Johannesburg to take responsibility for their surroundings by keeping them clean and embracing recycling. Simple actions like separating waste, reusing materials as well as supporting recycling efforts can make a big difference. As a party committed to sustainable governance, the UDM in Johannesburg will continue to push for policies that improve waste management, promote environmental education and support community-led cleanup projects. Together, we can build a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous city. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. The future of our city depends on how we care for our environment today.
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18 Mar, 2025
Nesethu Rawuzela: UDM Eastern Cape condemns GBV and calls for justice for victims
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic murder of Nesethu Rawuzela, a young nurse from Qumbu, Eastern Cape, who was allegedly assaulted by her boyfriend, leading to her untimely death. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Rawuzela family, her colleagues, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. No family should have to endure such pain and loss. Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to plague our society, with women and children bearing the brunt of these heinous crimes. The recent incidents in the OR Tambo district, including the case of a 32-year-old man accused of murdering his 24-year-old wife in Nkonkweni, Qumbu, highlight the urgent need for greater interventions to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the fight against GBV and we call upon law enforcement agencies and the justice system to ensure that perpetrators face the full might of the law. There must be no room for impunity. Justice must be swift, decisive, and uncompromising in dealing with those who violate the rights and dignity of others. The UDM in the Eastern Cape also urge government institutions, civil society, and communities to work together in strengthening GBV awareness, support systems for survivors, and proactive interventions that will curb these atrocities before they occur. Women must feel safe in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces without fear of being attacked by those who claim to love them. The UDM in the Eastern Cape, together with its youth and women’s structures, the United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO) and the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO), will not remain silent while women continue to suffer. We will be at the forefront of advocating for policies and initiatives that address the root causes of GBV while supporting survivors and their families. To show solidarity with the family of the deceased, UDM public representatives, along with members of UDESMO and UDEMWO, will be present at the Tsolo Magistrate’s Court tomorrow to support the Nesethu Rawuzela’s loved ones and demand justice. The UDM stands firm in ensuring that this case is not just another statistic but a turning point in the fight against gender-based violence. To the Rawuzela family and all those who have lost loved ones to GBV, we stand with you in your pain. The UDM will not rest until real change is achieved, and justice prevails.
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12 Mar, 2025
Mismanagement of City Power: R4.9 billion in irregular expenditure
Statement by Andile Jabavu, Gauteng Provincial Secretary of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in Gauteng is deeply concerned about the Auditor-General’s (AG) shocking findings on the City of Johannesburg's City Power, revealing a staggering loss of R2.8 billion in the 12 months ending 30 June 2024. Even more alarming, the entity incurred irregular expenditure exceeding R4.9 billion, raising serious questions about financial mismanagement, corruption and governance failures. City Power, a vital municipal entity responsible for electricity supply in Johannesburg, is teetering on the brink of collapse. The AG has warned of “material uncertainty” regarding its ability to continue operating, with its liabilities exceeding assets by R1.1 billion. These revelations come as residents endure frequent and prolonged power outages, exacerbating Johannesburg’s ongoing electricity crisis. Of particular concern is the R12 million advance payment allegedly made to a politically connected businessman, for a public lighting project, months before any work was done. Reports shows that internal City Power officials raised red flags, warning that this payment violated Treasury regulations under the Municipal Finance Management Act and the Public Finance Management Act. However, these concerns were allegedly overridden by a senior official who instructed subordinates to process the payment despite clear irregularities. Even more alarming, the businessman in question is allegedly linked to a known African National Congress benefactor, raising serious concerns about political interference. Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable, yet City Power’s response to these grave allegations have been vague, with promises of investigations that have so far produced no tangible results. Meanwhile, Johannesburg residents continue to endure worsening infrastructure and daily power failures. The UDM in Gauteng will not stand by while public funds are mismanaged at the expense of service delivery. We call on the City of Johannesburg and law enforcement authorities to act decisively in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those responsible for City Power’s financial collapse are held to account.
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11 Mar, 2025
UDM condolences to families of R21 bus crash victims and urges road safety compliance
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of twelve lives in a devastating bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng today. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. We also extend our thoughts and prayers to those who have been injured and wish them a full and speedy recovery. This heartbreaking incident follows two other recent bus crashes in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, bringing the total number of fatalities to nineteen in just two weeks. These tragedies highlight the urgent need for stricter road safety measures and responsible driving. We urge all road users, especially public transport operators, to always prioritise safety by: 1. Obeying all rules of the road i.e. the speed limit, road signs and safe following distances must always be observed. 2. Ensuring roadworthiness of vehicles by thoroughly checking them before every trip to prevent mechanical failures, especially tires and brakes. 3. Resting when tired as fatigue is a major cause of accidents, drivers must take regular breaks to ensure they are alert and able to react to road conditions. Losing lives on our roads is unacceptable. The UDM calls on the authorities to intensify road safety campaigns, enforce stricter vehicle inspections and ensure that those responsible for public transport uphold the highest safety standards. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find strength during this painful time.
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28 Feb, 2025
UDM disturbed by ill-considered McDonald's foldable desks for Grade 1 learners
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the ill-conceived donation of foldable school desks, handed over by the Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, in partnership with McDonald's and MiDesk Global. These desks were given to St. Paul's Primary School in Cape Town's Bo Kaap, in the Western Cape. It is unacceptable that, in 2025, our children are being used as walking advertisements for corporate branding instead of being provided with fully equipped classrooms that uphold their dignity. South African parents and educators have justifiably expressed their outrage over this situation. Rather than ensuring every child has a proper desk in the classroom, the department is celebrating a donation that shifts the responsibility from the government onto the backs of young children - literally! These desks are highly impractical, especially given the long distances and challenging roads many children must traverse to get to school. Adding this extra burden is absurd. To make matters worse, it is highly likely that the average child carrying the McDonald's foldable desk won’t even be able to afford a McDonald's Kiddies Meal in the first place! This situation is a national embarrassment for which Minister Gwarube must take full responsibility. We call on the Government of National Unity to ensure that every child, especially the poorest of the poor, has a desk to sit at when they are at school. Let us hope this is a one-time failed experiment that is not repeated elsewhere in the country.
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28 Feb, 2025
UDM calls for urgent action against school bullying after more than 500 incidents occurred
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the alarming number of bullying cases reported in South African schools since the start of the 2025 academic year. A staggering 548 incident have been recorded, with Limpopo leading at 305 cases, followed by North West (78), Eastern Cape (68), and other provinces reporting significant numbers. The recent tragic deaths of learners, as well as shocking cases of physical and emotional abuse in schools, highlight the urgent need for decisive action. No child should fear going to school and no family should have to mourn a child due to bullying. The UDM calls on: 1. School authorities to strictly enforce disciplinary measures against bullies, including suspensions, expulsions and criminal charges where necessary. 2. Government to immediately launch a nationwide anti-bullying campaign, involving teachers, parents, learners and law enforcement to educate and prevent further incidents. 3. Schools and school governing bodies to have clear anti-bullying policies that are strictly implemented and monitored. An updated “Addressing Bullying in Schools” manual must be expedited and enforced by mid-2025. 4. Government to ensure that trauma counselling and legal support are available for victims of bullying and their families. 5. School principals, governing bodies and education departments must be held accountable for failing to act on bullying cases. The UDM further calls on the Department of Basic Education, SAPS and the Department of Social Development to intensify their inter-departmental efforts to prevent school violence. Parents, communities and school staff must work together to ensure that schools are safe learning environments for all children. Bullying is not just “child’s play”, it has deadly consequences. The UDM demands urgent action before more lives are lost.
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