Admin
03 Apr, 2025
Omotoso case: prosecution failed the victims
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) expresses deep concern over the handling of the case against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho. After nearly eight years of legal proceedings, the High Court in Gqeberha has acquitted all three accused due to shortcomings in the prosecution's case. This outcome raises serious questions about the efficiency of our justice system and the rights of victims seeking justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. For almost a decade, the complainants in this case have been waiting for a fair and decisive resolution. The prolonged delays, inadequate cross-examination and mishandling of evidence have ultimately resulted in a failure to secure a conviction. This is a devastating setback not only for the complainants but for all South Africans who rely on the courts to uphold justice and protect victims of crime. The court acknowledged that while there were inconsistencies in the complainants' testimonies, the evidence presented by the defence was not properly tested due to prosecution failures. This highlights the urgent need for reforms in how complex criminal cases, especially those involving gender-based violence (GBV) and human trafficking, are handled. UDEMWO calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to urgently review this case and ensure that such procedural failures do not happen again. Victims of serious crimes must not be subjected to drawn-out trials that end in technical acquittals due to prosecutorial weaknesses. We also urge government and legal authorities to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial processes to prevent similar injustices in future. South Africa cannot afford a justice system that fails victims due to inefficiency and unnecessary delays and criminals being set free to perpetrate further crimes against hapless victims; especially GBV victims. UDEMWO will continue to advocate for a legal system that delivers timely and effective justice for all.
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01 Apr, 2025
UDM disappointed as Education Department fails to meet pit toilet eradication deadline
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) expresses deep disappointment over the Department of Basic Education's failure to meet its deadline for eradicating pit latrines in schools. This failure is not just a missed deadline, but an extension of a health hazard to our children. The deadline, set for 31 March 2025, has once again come and gone, leaving thousands of learners exposed to unsafe and undignified conditions. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube recently claimed that 93% of identified pit latrines have been eradicated. However, civil society organisations, including SECTION27, have raised serious concerns that the 2018 audit used to track progress is outdated, and many schools still operating with pit toilets have been overlooked. This failure is not just a missed deadline, it is an extension of a public health crisis and a health hazard to the lives of our children. The tragic case of a five-year-old learner who drowned in a pit latrine in 2014 in the Eastern Cape, should have been a wake-up call, instead, after years of court battles and repeated extensions, the government continues to move at an unacceptably slow pace. Reports from civil society indicate that many schools, particularly in rural provinces like Limpopo and the Eastern Cape, remain without proper sanitation. Some schools rely on unsafe and unhygienic mobile toilets, which are not a viable solution. In some cases, there are not enough toilets to accommodate all learners, and they are not properly maintained. According to media reports, almost 11,000 schools across the country still lack a single flushing toilet, and hundreds of schools have no running water. Learners are forced to use unsafe facilities creating serious hygiene and health risks. The government's continued failure to address this crisis with urgency is unacceptable. The UDM demands the following immediate actions: • A new, transparent national audit of all schools still relying on pit latrines, with the results made publicly available. • A clear, time-bound implementation plan for eradicating all remaining pit latrines, with no further extensions. • An accountability mechanism to track progress and ensure that responsible officials are held accountable for ongoing failures. • Increased collaboration between government, civil society and the private sector to accelerate sanitation projects. South Africa cannot afford another empty promise. The dignity and safety of our children must come first. The UDM will continue to monitor this issue closely and hold the government accountable for ensuring that no learner is forced to endure these inhumane conditions any longer.
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01 Apr, 2025
UDM victory: Buffalo City exposed over
Statement by Anele Skoti, United Democratic Movement Councillor and Whip in Buffalo City Metropolitan Council The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) welcomes the long-overdue accountability being demanded from BCMM bosses over the shocking mismanagement of public funds in the Mdantsane Swimming Pool project, which we have dubbed the "money pool". For years, the UDM has been at the forefront of exposing this scandal. Our party has conducted multiple site visits, raised concerns over the wasteful expenditure and consistently pushed for transparency. The recent grilling of BCMM officials by Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) confirms what we have been saying all along that millions of Rands have been looted while the community remains without a functioning swimming pool. The forensic report, which BCMM leaders attempted to suppress, reveals shocking details: • Over R56.9 million spent on the project between 2012 and 2024 with little progress. • An additional R14.5 million proposed for rehabilitation and completion, bringing the total to over R71 million. • More than 60 companies, some linked to BCMM officials, received payments. • R13.7 million paid to 46 service providers who were not involved in the project. Despite this damning evidence, BCMM leaders, including Mayor Princess Faku, have failed to take responsibility. The decision to withhold the forensic report under the pretext of an ongoing Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) investigation was a blatant attempt to protect those implicated in corruption. The UDM applauds Scopa’s demand that the report be tabled urgently and handed over to both the Hawks and the Special Investigating Unit. The UDM will not rest until those responsible for this financial disaster are held accountable. We demand immediate action against corrupt officials, full disclosure of the forensic report to the public, and an end to the culture of looting that has crippled service delivery in BCMM. Mdantsane. Buffalo City residents deserve better.
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29 Mar, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape calls for justice for Cwecwe and accountability in schools
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is outraged by the tragic case of Cwecwe, a seven-year-old child from Matatiele, who was allegedly raped while under the care of Bergview College. It is deeply concerning that, despite medical confirmation of the assault, no arrests have been made. We extend our full support to Cwecwe and her family during this traumatic time. We commend the Department of Education for its decision to deregister Bergview College, but this is only the first step. The failure to protect a child within an educational institution reflects a deeper crisis in our schools. We demand urgent action from the South African Police Service (SAPS) to expedite the investigation and ensure that justice is served. Law enforcement agencies cannot continue to fail victims, especially vulnerable children. We also call on Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube to strengthen safety measures in schools to prevent such incidents from ever happening again. Furthermore, the UDM in the Eastern Cape urges government to: 1. Fast-track the arrest and prosecute those responsible for this heinous crime. 2. Review safety policies in schools to ensure that all children are protected while in the care of educational institutions. 3. Provide psychological and social support to Cwecwe and her family to help them recover from this traumatic ordeal. We will not stand by while the most vulnerable in our society suffer due to negligence and lack of accountability. The UDM will closely monitor this case and push for justice to prevail. #JusticeForCwecwe
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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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