Admin
23 Jun, 2017
AG’s findings on local government audit remains cause for concern
Regarding the Auditor-general’s latest report on the local government audit, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) notes that there were only marginal improvements in local government audit results. We are however concerned that 14 municipalities lost their clean audit status, while only 9 cleaned up their acts. It simply means that good governance at local level, and effective municipal management, is moving in the wrong direction. It is heartening that the Auditor-general’s office, as a Chapter 9 institution, seems to be doing its job without fear or favour and does not shy away from fulfilling its Constitutional mandate. Statement issued by Mr Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The UDM is on record regarding Government’s over-reliance on consultants and it is discouraging to hear that consultancy fees for financial reporting services increased to R838 million. The greatest worrying factors are that: 1) Municipalities spend more than they have, their current liabilities exceed current assets at year-end, debtors are not paying or delay payment, as well as late payment of creditors. 2) There has been no improvement on the perennial concerns of the Auditor-general about contracts awarded to employees, councillors, their families and other state officials. 3) Even though fruitless and wasteful expenditure is down 21%, irregular expenditure has increased by just over 50%, which the Auditor-general said was “the highest since we started tracking the values”. Given the yearly damning observations, the UDM doubts if councils and municipal administrations take the Auditor-general seriously. The Auditor-general is simply ignored and the powers-that-be go about their merry ways without caring about the implications of their looting of State coffers and failing management. There are no repercussions for failing municipal administrations, and the UDM believes it might be necessary to have an Auditor-general with teeth. The UDM also notes an interesting trend regarding fruitless, wasteful and irregular expenditure by the Government; in particular at local sphere. This trend is mostly expressed during a year of general elections (national, provincial and local) as well as in a year of the conferences of the African National Congress (ANC) and its Alliance Partners. This trend is manifested in this year’s report, with the year preceding being Municipal Elections. We will not be surprised to notice a spike in expenses when, this time next year, another report is issued after the conferences of the ANC and its Alliance partners. The UDM will consider investigating this trend to establish whether public monies are not being used to fund internal political party programmes. If this is the case, it will be proof of yet another thievery. It is easy to look at the figures presented by the Auditor-general as list of amounts, but one must never forget that there are billions of Rands involved each year, which should be spent on bettering the lives of South Africans and not lining the pockets of the few.
Admin
22 Jun, 2017
Serious concern over provision of health services, especially in KwaZulu-Natal
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is saddened by the dire situation of the shortage of healthcare practitioners especially the medical practitioners and material resources at public or state hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal. We have heard too many stories of specialists, general practitioners and nurses who leave public service in search of greener pastures in the private sector and outside the country. What is more disturbing is the failure of the Department of Health to absorb doctors after completing their internship/community service in the state health facilities. We have doctors who are sitting at home because the government led by the ANC continues to fail in performing. This government seemed to be failing to understand that doctors provide essential service. To make matters worse, the Department of Health prefers to waste taxpayers’ money by paying agencies or labour brokers which hire temporary nurses. Government is also hiring on ad-hoc basis oncologists and radiotherapists from the service providers. The nation is sick and tired of the excuses made by the Department of Health for its poor performance whilst patients are dying. It is also disturbing that the KZN Health MEC Dr Sbongiseni Dlomo has credentials for the liberation struggle but he seemed to be failing to service his people and the nation. One would expect a better performance from him. He must resign and accept that he has failed. Patients deserve better.
Admin
22 Jun, 2017
#Concourt: Nqabayomzi Kwankwa writes to the Speaker on secret ballot
Dear Madam Speaker CONSTITUTIONAL COURT RULING ON SECRET BALLOT AND THE MOTION OF NO CONFIDENCE IN THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC We refer to our letter, that was subsequently withdrawn, sent on 3 April 2017 wherein we lodged a motion of no-confidence in the President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr JG Zuma. In light of today’s ruling of the Constitutional Court regarding your discretionary power to allow for a secret vote in the motion of no-confidence, we again lodge a motion of no-confidence in the President in terms of Section 102, subsection 2 of the South African Constitution and Section 129 of the Rules of the National Assembly. We call on you to do the right thing and grant an urgent debate, and allow for a secret ballot for a vote of no-confidence in President Zuma. We therefore request an urgent meeting with you to discuss the matter. Yours sincerely Mr Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP UDM Chief Whip
Admin
22 Jun, 2017
Victory for SA! Constitutional Court ruling on secret ballot
Statement issued by Mr Bantu Holomisa – UDM President The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has been vindicated with the Constitutional Court’s ruling that the Speaker of the National Assembly could facilitate a secret ballot in a no-confidence motion in President Zuma. We thank our legal team, as well as political parties and civil society organisations who supported us all the way. The risk of Members of Parliament (MPs) being victimised if they don’t vote according the Party-line is very real. In fact, the President has unequivocally stated that ruling party MPs who vote for his removal will do so at their own peril. The Constitutional Court has today recognised the seriousness of this threat and have made it possible for MPs to vote according to their conscience. The ball is now in the Speaker’s court and Ms Baleka Mbete is obliged to uphold her oath of office and prove that she’s not a ruling party toady. We therefore call on the Speaker, irrespective of her political affiliation, to do the right thing and grant a secret ballot for a vote of no-confidence in President Zuma. The proof is however in the pudding and the mettle of MPs will be tested in a vote of no-confidence. The UDM hopes that those ruling party MPs, who recognise that their party and president have lost the plot, will help us to take the first step to free the Country from “state capture”. End
Admin
20 Jun, 2017
Precautionary measures for initiation must be made a priority
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General It is that time of the year where thousands of boys from many communities across South Africa will be taking the life changing journey to the mountains to become men. This time-honoured rite of passage to manhood should be respected by all stakeholders and it cannot be at the expense of young lives. At this very important time for initiation practising communities, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) calls on the traditional surgeons and nurses to take every precaution to ensure that no lives are lost this season. One life lost is too many. The Circumcision Act must be enforced and in this regard, we have noted that the police arrested several alleged bogus circumcision practitioners in the Eastern Cape at the weekend. The UDM also calls on parents and community leaders to not allow their under age boys to undergo this rigorous process if they are not yet ready. Parents must also make it a point that they satisfy themselves with the credentials of the circumcision practitioners. The traditional leaders must also make sure that initiation schools are registered in their areas. End
Admin
16 Jun, 2017
Youth Day Rally, Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, address by UDM President Bantu Holomisa, MP
• National and provincial leaders of the UDM, • National and provincial leaders of the UDM, • Regional and local UDM leaders, • UDM Public Representatives, • Members of the United Democratic Movement. 1. National Youth Day 2017 Whilst the 1976-youth made their significant contribution to our democracy, today’s youth feels left out; relegated to economic hardship with no jobs and no prospects. The United Democratic Movement (UDM) therefore appreciates the young South Africans who swell our ranks. Because, it is only when young people are organised and armed with ideas and programmes of action, that they can collectively fight for their rightful place in society. The UDM has endeavoured to give young people the space to participate in Party activities; accommodating those who seek to respond to the specific challenges facing them as a social group. In line with the UDM National Council’s resolution on 3 December 2016, we have made progress in terms of organising the youth at secondary level. On the 24th of June, a strategy planning session will be held in Pretoria, with representatives of the Progressive Student Movement, together with representatives of the UDM’s Associate Structures and the National Office Bearers based at National Office. We will brainstorm youth programmes at secondary and tertiary education levels. We believe that the future of UDM lies with the youth and we must nurture young leaders as soon as possible, with a view to cultivate UDM leaders who can feature in the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, and beyond. You must take your rightful place in the UDM and the Country. 2. Youth’s role in eradicating corruption At the core of the issues that weighs against young people is corruption; especially when it comes to those charged with the task of governance and ensuring that the dividends of democracy filter down. The UDM’s youth must be aware that far too many people, who were in the vanguard of the Struggle, have let the Country down by lining their and their families’ pockets. These, now infamous, emails have so far proven authentic and nobody has outright claimed that they are fabrications. This should send a strong message to you, that you cannot fold your arms. Together with the people of Nelson Mandela Bay, the UDM youth has a responsibility to debate issues and raise your hands to say this is not the future you want. You must expose corrupt activities and elements at all sites of power to stop the erosion of development due to funds being diverted to people’s pockets. On this important day, I also call on all UDM young people to commit to the work of the Party. You must ensure that the UDM is relevant to the people and is growing via service to the communities in wards where you live. 3. Coalition government in the NMB Metropolitan Municipality 3.1. The UDM’s decision to participate in government Our commitment is consistent with our 2016 Municipal Elections manifesto that says: “Put Community First”. 3.2. The future of the coalition The UDM is still firmly part of this coalition government despite the challenges of the past few months. We have absolutely no intention to collapse or to leave the coalition government. We acknowledge that, like in any relationship, there are challenges; but they are not insurmountable. The problems that are regularly reported in the media have been escalated to the national leaders of the coalition partners and they are being attended too. If you are not aware, a three-member committee scrutinised the situation and found that the Executive Mayor and the Deputy Executive Mayor were both at fault in many respects. We therefore took the stance that they either should shape up or ship out. Everyone must do their work, and follow the law and rules of the municipality. Just to dispel any rumours and misinformation, the national leadership of the coalition partners (which consist of the African Christian Democratic Party, the Congress of the People, the Democratic Alliance and the UDM) made the following decisions on 5 June 2017: 1. Councillor Bobani will remain the Executive Deputy Mayor and a member of the Mayoral Committee, but, at the moment, not in charge of Public Health. 2. The Executive Mayor will investigate a suitable alternative portfolio for Councillor Bobani to take charge of until the investigations into the Department of Public Health have been completed. Both Councillors Trollip and Bobani were present at this meeting and they were told to put interest of people above everything else and that the partner-parties wanted to see the smooth running of the coalition government. The UDM has a clear vision for this coalition, as it responds to the call by the people of Nelson Mandela Bay for a clean and people-centred government. It is an achievable goal and we must make Nelson Mandela Bay a better place for all our people who live here. 3.3. The lack of a legislative framework for coalition governments In hindsight, the teething problems we have faced these past months are a good learning curve and we’ve learnt some valuable lessons. One of those are that the existing legislative framework does not provide for government by coalition. In this regard, the UDM will through the National Assembly investigate whether there cannot be a review of the Municipal Structures and Systems Act to govern the smooth running of coalition governments. As we approach the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, the need to look at our Constitution and laws, in the context of multi-party democracy, is urgent. Given the current political landscape, it is possible that there may be no party that will win outright in 2019. South Africa may be forced to constitute coalition governments in some provinces and at even at national level. 4. Busting corruption We continue to forge against the growing scourge of corruption under the ANC administration. As opposition parties, together with civil society, we actively engage in fighting corruption at every turn, to counter the damage caused by the newly acquired friends (from outside South Africa) of those in high places. We have therefore asked the Constitutional Court to insulate Members of Parliament from adverse repercussions when voting on the no-confidence motion in President Zuma. 5. Towards a National Convention In realising our objectives, the UDM sold the idea of a National Convention to several political- and civil society organisations. This all-inclusive, National Convention should consider the state of the Country and map out a vision to guide us to a better future. We shall make sure that this process is as open as possible and is inclusive of South Africans from all walks of life. The future of this country is in our hands and we must do everything possible to save it and create hope for the generations to come. 6. Towards 2019 National and Provincial Elections For us to be prepared for the forthcoming elections, it is your job to launch UDM branches in every corner of this municipality, so that we have a pool of leaders that can swell our ranks in the Bhisho Legislature and in Parliament. 7. UDM’s 20th Birthday Bash On 27 September 2017, the UDM shall mark the 20th anniversary of its existence. We have survived rough political waters and we intend to continue our good work; looking towards the 2019 National and Provincial Elections and beyond. 8. A message to our Deputy Executive Mayor You have been vocal on corruption in this municipality for a number of years and have written to the Public Protector about the previous regime’s indiscretions. You need to check each forensic report and establish if the billions of Rands have been recovered. You must also brief Council and the people of the Nelson Mandela Bay on the findings and the progress (or lack of) of implementation. In addition, the budget for Nelson Mandela Bay is out and it would be a shame if it is not successfully implemented and the funds gets rolled back. I have scanned through the budget and there are grey areas. We must guard against a situation where it becomes a straight-jacket, biased towards developed areas and running the risk that the formerly disadvantaged communities are left behind. As Deputy Executive Mayor, you must monitor the work of the Mayoral Committee, the MMCs and departmental officials. Ward councillors must also not be forgotten as they are a direct link to communities to whom they are accountable. You are in a unique position to give direction in finding solutions to the problems faced by the people of NMB. Make sure everyone understands this budget and ensure participation in the IDP process. But, most importantly, services must be rolled out. Please don’t get side-tracked by media shenanigans and leakages. Knuckle down and do the work. Go to the suburbs and townships. Monitor progress and raise the flag where you see the work veering off course. Agitate for a suitable staff complement that works to support you and your work. Arriving at the office with just your briefcase is not good enough. 9. Conclusion On behalf of the national leadership of the UDM, I wish you a very good Youth Month and all the best with the work ahead of you. Thank you.
Admin
15 Jun, 2017
UDM will spend Youth Day with fire ravaged communities #KnysnaFires
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) commiserates with the Garden Route communities who have lost so much in the fires that ravaged their lives. In particular, we express our condolences to the families and friends of those who so tragically lost their lives. We commend the work of our firefighters and other rescue services professionals who had to operate in the most unthinkable circumstances. Those who volunteered their time and resources to assist in the evacuation of people and animals are our heroes. The Nation’s response to this disaster, as well as to the storm wrecked communities, shows that we are a compassionate people, willing to sacrifice and help each other in time of desperate need. As we pick up the pieces, the UDM is pleased to join hands with the hundreds of thousands of South Africans in lending a helping hand. UDM Deputy-President Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP will spend Youth Day (on Friday, 16 June 2017) with the affected communities to assist with their basic and immediate needs. Press Release by UDM Deputy-President, Mr Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP
Admin
13 Jun, 2017
Condolences for Mr Ahmed Kathrada, Bantu Holomisa’s contribution to Parliamentary Debate
Honourable Speaker, and Honourable Members The United Democratic Movement (UDM) appreciates the opportunity to honour, Ahmed Kathrada, a tower of strength and a source of inspiration to many generations; even if it could have been done earlier and better. I had the honour to meet Kathy and his fellow Rivonia Trialists in Umtata in 1989. Their presence and words spoken at the welcome-home rally, we organised for them, gave us the courage to continue supporting the struggle for liberation, knowing that we were on the right side of history. During my encounters with this stalwart, and others, they showed courage, humility and dignity. They reminded us that the seeming impossible can be done. They were always attentive, frank and robust when discussing issues. Again in 1990, the Rivonia Trialists converged in Umtata to welcome home the late OR Tambo. At that time, in the company of the late Madiba and OR, we discussed our perspective on the so-called Black on Black violence. I was accompanied by the current Military Ombudsman, General TT Matanzima and the current Commander of the United Nations Forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, General DM Mgwebi. We advised the leadership that the Apartheid government was negotiating in bad faith and that it was trying to catch the African National Congress (ANC) with a Trojan-Horse strategy. At that time, it became clear that the National Party delegation (led by Mr Niel Barnard) and the ANC team (led by Mr Jacob Zuma) had failed to plan for the security of the leaders and activists. It was a big security risk that could have created serious problems for the success of the negotiations; we therefore stepped in. The rest, as they say, is history. Today, the UDM offers its condolences to Kathy’s wife and life-partner, Ms Barbara Hogan, the family, friends and the ANC. During his last days, Kathy was deeply troubled by the conduct of the sitting Head of State and could not reconcile this conduct with the sacrifice he and other stalwarts made for this democracy. I hope that this House will soon truly honour him by responding positively to his call to Mr Zuma to leave office; especially seen in the light of this most recent email scandal. May his soul rest in peace. I thank you. Address by Mr Bantu Holomisa, UDM President, MP in the National Assembly
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