UDM concludes successful two-day public representatives’ workshop
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement and Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape successfully hosted a two-day capacity building workshop and engagement session for public representatives from across South Africa in Mthatha on 4 and 5 October 2025.
The workshop brought together UDM public representatives from across the country, serving at national, provincial, and local levels of government, to strengthen their capacity to serve communities with excellence, accountability, and integrity. It was an opportunity to reflect on the responsibilities entrusted to those who hold public office, and to renew the shared commitment to ethical leadership and responsive governance.
The programme was made possible through the generous support and partnership of the Education and Training Unit for Democracy and Development (ETU). The UDM extends its sincere gratitude for this valuable collaboration, which enriched the workshop and contributed meaningfully to building the capacity of our public representatives.
The sessions were highly informative, engaging, and practical, focusing on good governance, effective representation, and improved service delivery. Participants engaged in robust discussions on coalition management within the Government of National Unity, the separation of powers, fiscal responsibility, and strategies to rebuild public trust in institutions. They also explored ways to deepen community engagement, strengthen oversight at all levels, and ensure that public resources are managed in the best interest of citizens.
The UDM and its public representatives emerge from this workshop united and energised in their mission to promote honest, accountable governance and to serve the people effectively. Our leaders are now better equipped to translate the UDM’s vision and values into tangible results for the benefit of our people.
As the nation moves toward the 2026 Local Government Elections, the UDM stands ready to play its part in advancing South Africa through principled leadership, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the service of our people. The workshop reaffirmed the UDM’s conviction that ethical governance, grounded in accountability and compassion, is the cornerstone of meaningful transformation.
