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06 Jul, 2020
UDM calls for referendum on the death penalty
Considering the calls from various sectors of our society for the death penalty to be reintroduced, especially in terms of gender-based violence (GBV), femicide, as well as child abuse and murder, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) reiterates its longstanding call that the government must allow for the voice of the people to be heard; it is time to have a referendum on the death penalty. The existing punishments for the guilty, are not a deterrent. Protection orders have become mere pieces of paper and ink and the perpetrators do not take them seriously, and the police fail to enforce them. The UDM calls upon the government of the day to take GBV seriously and to stop paying lip service as it makes no difference to the lives of those who live with daily abuse. Governmental leaders cannot take decisions alone behind closed doors, excluding the people who face these disastrous situations in our society. Let the people speak. Issued by: Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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01 Aug, 2019
Special message to Minister of Police re murder of Senzo Meyiwa
As the nation still mourns the passing away of Mr Sam Meyiwa, the father of the treasured footballer Senzo Meyiwa, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) has a special message for Minister of Police Bheki Cele to do whatever is needed to bring to book Senzo’s murderers. The UDM notes that the minister assured the Meyiwa family that the killers would be apprehended. Minister Cele must realise that the family and the nation are sick and tired of the lip service, since he, when he was appointed in this portfolio during the fifth parliament, was very vocal about his intention to resolve this murder case and nothing has happened. All the UDM is asking for, as the late Sam Meyiwa would be laid to rest this coming weekend, is for a good send-off that will be befitting, which is the arrest of the killers of this son of the soil. Once that has happened, both Sam and Senzo will surely rest in peace Issued by: Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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13 Nov, 2018
Increase in municipal managers’ salaries immoral
It is upsetting that, during a time where the country is battling a high unemployment rate and other negative economic factors, municipal managers and those directly reporting to them will receive pay hikes. The United Democratic Movement condemns this immoral decision in the strongest possible terms. This is a total insult to all South Africans who continue to feel the pinch. We do not see the need for this increment whilst there are other key areas on which money should be spent. Seen in this light, this move by Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize makes absolutely no sense. The ruling party prioritises their stomachs over our people and they need to realise that it takes them for granted while using their votes as a golden ticket to line their pockets. Elections are just a few months off and it is time for voters to make right the choices and show them their due. Issued by: Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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08 Oct, 2018
Condolences: passing of Eastern Cape Education MEC
The United Democratic Movement is saddened by the loss of Education MEC, Mandla Makupula. This is not only a loss for his family or the Eastern Cape, but to the nation. We wish to send a message of condolence to the family, friends and to the African National Congress, as well as the education fraternity at large. His departure leaves a scar especially during a time that the province still faces a whole lot of challenges in education development. May his family find strength and solace in this sad time. Our prayers are with them. Issued by: Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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24 Jul, 2018
Government is failing or unwilling to solve taxi violence
Statement by Mr Bongani Msomi, UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the continued violence in the taxi industry. The killing of eleven taxi operators at the weekend is senseless and not long ago, many lives were lost in Mthatha in taxi violence. It cannot be business as usual while our people are suffering. The country is in crisis, as far too many people lose their lives as taxi violence continues to pervade many areas in the country. This needs to come to an end. It is clear that local authorities have failed to solve the problem. The national authorities should intervene swiftly and find lasting solutions to the perennial taxi wars. We also convey a message of condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
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26 Apr, 2018
Freedom Day 2018
Statement by Mr Bongani Msomi, UDM Secretary General Truth be told, we started well in 1994. South Africa built a democratic dispensation based on the noble ideals of protecting human rights and promoting freedom. The struggle movements and leaders can take a bow for breaking down minority rule. But, it is hard to celebrate political freedom, when the majority of our people remains locked out of economic freedom. We of course, at that time, placed political freedom at the pinnacle of our agenda. However, as we ticked the boxes on our constitutionally prescribed checklist, the nation must realise that many of those boxes remains unticked. Because, after 24 years, the nation under ANC-rule has spun its wheels in the mud of corruption, maladministration and lately the rule of a delinquent president. This malodour unfortunately still clings to the status quo. Although we do not want to judge too early, the signals we have seen thus far from the Union Buildings does not auger well for South Africa; with the new president’s appointment of several fishy ministers. Political deals were struck behind closed doors that were in the interest of the ruling party and have not put the people first. So, what has really changed? Not much; the Comrades in Corruption are still at the helm. The very same leaders who presided over South Africa’s slide down the slippery slope of corruption and job shedding had protected their former president at all cost, have decided to “re-deploy” this questionable individual to campaign for the ruling party in the forthcoming elections. The fact is, the ruling party can no longer be trusted, and the public cannot afford to be fooled by the so-called new dawn. This is a leopard that cannot (and will not) change its spots. Come 2019, South Africans must see through the thin veil draped over the ruling party and punish them at the ballot box for their misdeeds. When we celebrate Freedom Day in the future, it will hopefully be a proud moment where all South Africans are starting to enjoy dignity, prosperity and economic freedom, which will truly transform South Africa into a winning nation. Contact: Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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28 Mar, 2018
UDM’s well wishes for Easter holidays
As many South Africans make their way to different destinations these Easter holidays, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) calls on drivers to be vigilant, cautious and obey road signs. They must ensure that travellers reach their destination safe. Motorists must curb roads rage. The drivers and passengers are urged to always exercise patience and be considerate of other road users. Pedestrians must also abide by the law and rather use bridges or areas marked for them to cross highways; they must also not jay-walk while under influence. Let there be no injuries and fatalities as we had witnessed in the past years. The scourge of deaths on roads can be stopped if all road users understand that there is no need for over excitement during holidays. The UDM also calls for visibility of law enforcement officials – it is their job to ensure that road users are safe. Owners must ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy. The UDM take this opportunity to wish well all those who observe Easter and those who are due for a period of respite, should come back rested. UDM also extends the message of condolences to the family and friends of those who were involved in a bus accident that took place in Ngcobo today. Those in hospital, we wish you a speedy recovery. Issued by: Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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03 Oct, 2017
UDM calls for effective action on Cape Flats killings
Statement issued by Mr Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is concerned by the on-going gangsterism feuds that continue claiming lives of the innocent members of the community in the Cape Flats. We have been calling upon the Western Cape government to make swift interventions into this. The past weekend, residents in Marikana informal settlement have witnessed yet again another massacre when more 10 people were murdered in gang related shootings. We do not understand why the City of Cape Town is dragging its feet into this matter. The residents live in fear as their fate is in the hands of gangsters. How many lives must be lost before the government of the Western Cape led by Democratic Alliance realise that the situation has gotten out of hand. One wonders whether the delay for decisive action is because the victims are only blacks. UDM has previously raised concerns and questioned the strategy of the Safety and Security Cluster in the Western Cape. We are once again calling for the Safety and Security MEC, Dan Plato to do something effective that will stamp out gangsterism in that part of the country. Law abiding citizens are kept as prisoners in their homes. End
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26 Jul, 2017
Concern as Eastern Cape Emergency Services down tools
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General United Democratic Movement (UDM) is concerned about the current strike of Emergency Medical Services officials in various parts of the Eastern Cape. Even though we understand workers’ grievances over financial issues, our biggest concern is that patients are adversely affected by this strike. The Department of Health has a responsibility to our people and it should swiftly intervene. All stakeholders must act decisively and find a solution before lives are lost. The Eastern Cape battles with poor health service delivery and we cannot afford more disruption of the little they get from the Department. The Eastern Cape Health MEC, Dr Phumza Dyantyi, must address this situation before things get out of hand. End
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08 May, 2017
Vuwani no-show: A sign of disrepect
Statement issued by UDM Secretary General – Bongani Msomi It is with sadness that we witness the belittling behaviour of President Jacob Zuma towards the people of this country. His no-show at Vuwani, at the weekend, displays the clear arrogance of his government and his party. There have been widespread service delivery protests but nothing changes. Citizens need to realise that the ruling party does not consider them and that it is time to make different choices. President Zuma and his allies should be made to feel the anger of the citizens; the only ways to do this is for South Africans take back their power and punish the ruling party in 2019. President Zuma must stop taking people for a ride and they must stop allowing this to happen.
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21 Apr, 2017
UDM condemns police killings
Statement issued by UDM Secretary General, Mr Bongani Msomi The United Democratic Movement (UDM) sends condolences to the family and friends of the brutally killed police officers while on duty. As UDM, we note with shock and concern the increasing numbers of officials killed throughout the country. The recent killings bring much alarm and it warrants that something should be done urgently. We cannot carry on as if nothing happened. The attack on police is an attack to the citizens. UDM calls on community members to help in the protection of the police. They must be allowed to do their job without fear. When a police officer dies, not only the family is affected but the whole community and nation at large. The police must be trained in such a manner that will allow them to defend themselves when they are attacked. We wish to extend a speedy recovery to the police officer who was wounded during shootout in Soweto. We hope he gets well soon. We call on the security agencies to work tirelessly to arrest the culprits. We hope they will get arrested and brought to book. End
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24 Feb, 2017
UDM condemns attacks on foreign nationals – statement by Bongani Msomi, UDM Secretary General
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) condemns in strongest terms the violent march that is currently taking place in Pretoria and surroundings. The march that was allegedly aimed at highlighting the high level of crimes engulfing our country and it is believed that these crimes are perpetrated by foreign nationals who are in the country illegally. As an Organisation, we understand where our people are coming from. There is no employment, human trafficking and prostitution are rife and the police are failing to deal with these negative developments in our communities. South African citizens seem to be on the receiving ends – They report crimes but police take their own time to respond hence they resort in taking law into their hands. The ANC-led government departments are not doing their work; our borders are open to illegal immigrants as they are not secured. The Home Affairs department is also failing to process timeously the application for asylums hence South Africa is experiencing quite a huge number of illegal immigrants. The UDM calls for the ANC to do a good thing and take care of its citizens otherwise the country is sitting on a time bomb where Africans will end up fighting each other.
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23 Mar, 2016
UDM appeals for good behaviour on the roads
As we are all going to the Easter holiday, we know that there are drivers who will put the lives of the innocent commuters at risk. Most accidents are caused by those driving under the influence of alcohol, driving tired, driving at high speed, vehicles that are not roadworthy and/or overloading. As the United Democratic Movement (UDM) we are calling on drivers to obey the rules on the roads, abide with the law and drive safe. It is worrisome to see growing numbers of fatalities in our roads especially during holidays. We cannot afford to lose lives every time because of silly behaviour of the drivers. One life lost is too many. The government must make sure that those who do not obey the rules face harsh sentencing for their deeds. Not only do they put their lives in danger but also of the passengers and other drivers on the roads. Also, looking at statistics of road accidents, the number of pedestrians hit by cars is high. We are also calling upon the pedestrians to obey rules and use bridges to cross the roads. As UDM, we are calling upon the law enforcement officials to be visible on the roads during this time and beyond as we feel that drivers do behave when they see them. The Department of Transport, Road Traffic Management Corporation, law enforcement officials must investigate the root cause of these fatalities and come up with ways to curb them. The taxi and bus associations and owners must also take action in curbing the norm of drivers especially long distance drivers who do not rest. It must not be about money more than the lives of the passengers. Statement issued by Mr Bongani Msomi UDM Secretary General
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11 Nov, 2015
UDM welcomes sentencing of Mido Marcia’s killers
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi As the United Democratic Movement (UDM), we welcome the sentencing of the eight (8) police officers who were involved in the horrendous assault that led to the death of Mozambican taxi driver Mido Marcia in Daveyton in 2013. The sentencing sends out a clear and strong message to all other officers and criminals who think they are above the law. We hope that the justice system will continue to deal with lawbreakers and not be lenient against them. Such people do not belong in our communities. We hope that the sentence will also be a lesson to other law enforcement officials who abuse their power. End
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12 Aug, 2015
UDM condolences to the Orange Farm fire victims
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi: UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) would like to convey a message of condolence to the family of 5 children who lost their lives during a shack fire in Orange Farm, Johannesburg. This is such a tragic and it could have been avoided if the ANC led government had fulfilled its promise of eradicating shack building throughout the country by the year 2014 which has come and passed. 8 years ago, ANC made a promise to the nation that by the year 2014 shacks all over the country will be history. As UDM we feel that the ANC must be held accountable for all the lives that are lost in shack fires. ANC must answer to the nation as to what happened to the promise of getting rid of shacks in the country. The ruling party must begin to take seriousness in the plight of citizens of this country and stop making promises they cannot fulfil because this has led to the influx of people moving in to shacks with the hope that they will secure RDP houses as promise and it turned out to be all false hence the congestion we are experiencing. End
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13 May, 2014
Elections 2014 – Thank you to UDM supporters and members for hard work
Dear All Thank you for your support and votes in the National and Provincial elections on May 7th. I would also like to extend my appreciation to all the United Democratic Movement (UDM) members and leaders. We have all had the opportunity to meet so many amazing, progressive people throughout this campaign period, I hope that each and every one of you stays in touch and stays involved. I can confirm that the UDM has been allocated two seats from the National List [10th] and two seats from the Regional List to National in Eastern Cape, making the total of four seats in the National Assembly. We also qualify for a seat of a permanent delegate to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). In total the UDM will have five Public Representatives represented in Cape Town. Looking at the UDM candidates who will be sworn-in in the National Assembly we were challenged when it comes to gender balancing. In the last five years we have been coming under heavy criticism in the House because the UDM did not have a female representative. Mr Lennox Gaehler who is one of the candidates will voluntarily go to the NCOP and accommodate a woman candidate in the National Assembly (Ms Cynthia Majeke). Let’s continue to build the movement. I have faith in the Party and faith in the people of South Africa especially UDM members. Yours in Party building, Mr BJ Msomi UDM Secretary General
