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07 Aug, 2017
Women-slapping minister: gender-based violence at the highest level
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is furious and shocked by the incident where the Education Deputy-Minister Mduduzi Manana assaulted two women at a night club at the weekend. He has apparently admitted that he has done so and UDEMWO believes that his actions cannot be justified under any circumstance. This incident not only happens in Women’s Month, but against the background of the increase in gender-based violence in South Africa. A man at Deputy-Minister Manana’s level should live by example. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula must also not be tempted to protect his colleague abusing his position. Deputy-Minister Manana cannot get away with this. No one is above law; least of all a minister and he must face the consequences of his actions. We also hope that the witnesses will not be intimidated during the investigation. Does the ANC Women’s League approve of this behaviour? The same as they did with Kwezi? We in addition call upon the ruling party itself to urgently subject Minister Manana to a disciplinary process. Should there be no consequences for Deputy-Minister Manana, it will be a clear indication that the ruling party and its male ministers do not have time for strong women; we cannot be led by people who don’t respect us. End
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03 Aug, 2017
Johannesburg: UDM commends Mayor Mashaba’s action regarding Cllr Peetz
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDM Councillor in the City of Johannesburg The United Democratic Movement (UDM) commends Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba for the swift action regarding allegations of corruption by MMC for Economic Development Cllr Sharon Peetz. Corruption has no colour or political affiliation and this administration of the City of Johannesburg is here to root out corruption regardless of who commits it. It must be made clear that no one is above the law; irrespective of a person’s high office. Justice must take its course. The UDM is also interested to see what actions the Democratic Alliance will take regarding their councillor’s alleged misconduct. 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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20 Jul, 2017
Gender Violence: Is Yvonne just another statistic
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General There seems to be a heart-wrenching answer to the question of the whereabouts of Yvonne Mbekwa. The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) is saddened to hear that a burnt body, with her documentation, was found fairly close to where she and her baby had disappeared. Reports do not indicate the fate of her child, but we have come to expect the worst. “Yvonne Mbekwa” is yet another name to add to the growing list of victims of gender-based violence in South Africa. Government is simply not taking this matter seriously. The responsible ministers can’t get away with making a few pacifying noises in the media and leading us in celebrating Women’s Month in a few weeks’ time. 16 Days of Activism does not cut it anymore. What are you doing to drastically better the lives of women in this Country? There is another dynamic to this tragic situation which adds extra discomfort. It has come to light that the main suspect, Yvonne’s boyfriend and father of her child, is a police officer in the Port St Johns area. If he is found to be her murderer; the irony would be too thick to swallow; because the very person who was supposed to give protection, instead took life. We call on the South African Police Service to make a swift arrest, especially since there have been allegations that the suspect has issued threats to Yvonne’s family and community. We also call upon police to speedily investigate the whereabouts of the infant. We keep her family and friends in our prayers. May her soul rest in peace. End
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18 Jul, 2017
Illegal and immoral death threats on prominent South Africans
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is extremely concerned over reports of continued and growing intimidation of anyone who dares to dissent from the ruling party; or maybe just from certain elements within its ranks? This seems to be the go-to response, these days, when any unfortunate soul ventures to point out any wrong-doing in Government. It has been reported that South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) Chief Executive Officer who has since resigned, Thokozani Magwaza, allegedly received death threats because of the Sassa/SA Post Office contract which is to replace disgraced Cash Paymaster Services. This blackmail culture means that government employees, who does their jobs properly, or who refuses to be coerced, runs the risk of (at the least) losing their jobs or (at the most) losing their lives. This phenomenon speaks of a Nation held at ransom and the UDM condemns this illegal and immoral trend in no uncertain terms. Whether some people believe that their power or pockets are to be affected, there is no justification for issuing death threats. The South Africa Constitution states clearly that “everyone has the right to freedom and security of the person” and that we shall be “free from all forms of violence from either public or private sources”. What makes matters worse is that authorities seem to be turning a blind eye. No-one, irrespective of political affiliation or standing, is above the law. These alleged threats cannot be ignored and law enforcement must be proactive by investigating each threat and finding the culprits. End
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13 Jul, 2017
Opposition parties met in Pretoria to discuss pressing issues
The following parties; ACDP, APC, COPE, DA, EFF, IFP and the UDM met today to discuss a number of burning political issues. 1. Secret Ballot or not? The 22 June Constitutional Court judgment We welcome the Constitutional Court judgement on the Speaker’s discretion to decide whether a vote on a no-confidence motion in the President of the Republic should be secret or not. Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, has given the Speaker of the National Assembly wise advice in the Court’s judgement: “South Africa is a constitutional democracy – a government of the people, by the people and for the people through the instrumentality of the Constitution. It is a system of governance that “we the people” consciously and purposefully opted for to create a truly free, just and united nation. Central to this vision is the improvement of the quality of life of all citizens and the optimisation of the potential of each through good governance.” About the power of those in public office the Constitutional Court said: “They are therefore not to be used for the advancement of personal or sectarian interests. Amandla awethu, mannda ndiashu, maatla ke a rona or matimba ya hina (power belongs to us) and mayibuye iAfrika (restore Africa and its wealth) are much more than mere excitement-generating slogans.” Some political parties in Parliament have already begun to make their submissions to the Speaker to further motivate for a secret ballot. However, we reinforce the ruling that it is within her discretion to make a determination. We hope that for once, she will be impartial and take a decision for the benefit of South Africa. We note her instructions to the ANC MPs to vote in favour of their President; the Speaker is patently biased and therefore compromised. She cannot preside over the debate. To add to this, Ms Mbete will act as President in the event of the success of the no-confidence-vote which makes her even more conflicted. 2. Activities on the day of the Motion of No-Confidence Regarding activities scheduled for the 8th of August, the date on which the vote on the no-confidence motion will take place in the National Assembly, we call all South Africans to converge in Cape Town and march to Parliament in support of a better South Africa without a incompetent President at the helm. Those who are not able to make it to Cape Town must engage in activities in their villages, townships and towns. We call on the entire civil society sector, religious institutions, traditional leaders, unions, and everybody, to stand up to a scandalous President. 3. Speaker’s worrying comments on the judiciary We are concerned about Ms Baleka Mbete’s accusations that certain judges are biased against her party. This undermines her duty to act as a liaison between Parliament as an institution and the other arms of State. This means that she still fails to separate her role as the head of the National Assembly and that of the African National Congress (ANC) Chairperson. 4. Attack on the media We, in the strongest terms, condemn the Black First Land First-led onslaught on journalists. We reaffirm our commitment to a free and independent media whose right, to keep the nation informed, is guaranteed by the Constitution. We denounce this emerging foreign culture of intolerance we witness these days. 5. The Judicial Commission of Inquiry on State Capture We call on President Zuma to demonstrate, for once, that he is true to his words; telling the National Assembly that he is about to announce a Commission Inquiry on State Capture. He should with immediate effect withdraw his court challenge on the Public Protector’s State Capture Report and announce the Commission as per the remedial actions of the Public Protector. 6. The racially divisive Bell Pottinger’s agenda We reject the so-called apology by a racist prone Bell Pottinger. The ANC and its Gupta sponsors must explain why they allowed such rampant racism to divide the Nation, using resources which should have been dedicated to bettering the lives of all South Africans. The ANC and its government must come clean and explain how they ended up in the pockets of this racist company. 7. Public Protector We condemn the conduct of the Public Protector in terms of the remedial actions affecting the Reserve Bank. Her flip-flops on the matter does not paint a picture of an incontrovertible Public Protector. We call on Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane to unequivocally apologise to the Nation and that she immediately stops turning this office into a political side show that serves the interests of a destructive faction within the ruling party. We also call on the National Assembly Justice Portfolio Committee to summon Advocate Mkhwebane to account for her actions, in this regard. 8. The work of the Independent Electoral Commission With a view to improve the freeness and fairness of the 2019 National and Provincial Elections, opposition party leaders wish to soon meet with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to again discuss our perennial concerns; what their interventions are on that score; and also brief us on their state of readiness for 2019. 9. Party funding Public funding of political parties is a critical tool to foster a healthy multi-party democracy. We are however worried about the intentions of the ruling party; in particular after their losing some metropolitan municipalities in 2016 and with them facing a strong possibility of losing the majority in 2019 National and Provincial Elections. Our position is that we must ensure equitable allocation of resources to all political parties in terms of the current legislation. We must first establish a common interpretation and application of the existing legislation and once that is done, we can think about further funding, if necessary. 10. Security of leaders of political parties The issue of the privacy and safety of political leaders has recently come to the fore. Over the past few months many reports have surfaced of an alleged rogue intelligence unit spying on leaders. Most recently, the emails and documents obtained through the #GuptaLeaksshowed how the family spied on prominent South Africans. We have resolved to ask the Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Intelligence to request a briefing from the State security apparatus on the media reports; especially in cases where some leaders have apparently been targeted for assassination. Thank you By Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP On behalf of Opposition Parties represented in the National Assembly. Burgers Park Hotel, Pretoria on 13 July 2017
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12 Jul, 2017
Letter by UDM President Bantu Holomisa to Parliament Speaker Honourable Baleka Mbete
Honourable Ms Baleka Mbete, MP Speaker of the National Assembly PO Box 15 Cape Town 8000 Per email: speaker@parliament.gov.za Dear Madam Speaker YOUR REQUEST FOR INPUT FROM POLITICAL PARTIES ON A SECRET BALLOT ON THE MOTION OF NO CONFIDENCE IN THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA This matter has reference. 1. The context of the Constitutional Court judgement In giving the Constitutional Court’s unanimous judgement, on 22 June 2017, on the matter of the Speaker’s discretion to decide whether a vote on a motion of no-confidence (MONC) in the President of the Republic should be secret or not, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng stated the following: “South Africa is a constitutional democracy – a government of the people, by the people and for the people through the instrumentality of the Constitution. It is a system of governance that “we the people” consciously and purposefully opted for to create a truly free, just and united nation. Central to this vision is the improvement of the quality of life of all citizens and the optimisation of the potential of each through good governance.” About the power of those in public office the Constitutional Court said: “They are therefore not to be used for the advancement of personal or sectarian interests. Amandla awethu, mannda ndiashu, maatla ke a rona or matimba ya hina (power belongs to us) and mayibuye iAfrika (restore Africa and its wealth) are much more than mere excitement-generating slogans.” The context provided by these pronouncements is critical when considering whether the ballot on the MONC in the National Assembly (NA) should be secret or not. It means that any decision, which the Members of Parliament (MPs) in the NA makes, should be weighed in terms of the primary directive of improving the lives of all South Africans to the exclusion of “the advancement of personal or sectarian interests”. 2. Protection of MPs and their freedom fulfil their obligation to South Africans The question is therefore whether the NA MPs enjoy the protection and freedom to fulfil their Constitutional obligation to make decisions in the best interest of our people. In our submissions to the Constitutional Court, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) raised the issue of widespread intimidation of members of the African National Congress (ANC) in order to quell dissent within the party. There is a copious number of examples, as reported by the independent media, which detail the threats made on the person and employment of ANC MPs in the NA. These threats started right after President Zuma reshuffled his cabinet, and continue to this day. One cannot make the mistake of thinking these are idle threats. The Minister of Police announced, on the 29th of May 2017, that there had been thirty-three officially recorded politically motivated murders in the KwaZulu-Natal alone. We have not seen this level of political intolerance since the mid-nineties. As if this is not enough, during the ANC’s recent Policy Conference the very same Minister (who is also a member of the ruling party National Executive Committee (NEC)) described those NA MPs who may vote with the Constitution and the people of South Africa, as “suicide bombers”. A very violent analogy, to describe a potentially violent situation. The whole fracas around ANC MP Dr Makhosi Khoza’s point of view on the secret ballot is another case in point. Just today it was reported that her daughter received death threats from the same people intimidating her. Not only is she under threat, but her family too! On the 7th of July, the Chief Whip of the majority party in the NA threatened members of his party with disciplinary action if they dare to not toe the party line. If this is the level to which people will stoop, how can MPs vote without fear of what the Constitutional Court called “illegitimate hardships”. 3. “Proper and rational basis” for the Speakers decision on a secret ballot The UDM again refers you to the Constitutional Court’s judgement that states that: “There must always be a proper and rational basis for whatever choice the Speaker makes in the exercise of the constitutional power to determine the voting procedure. Due regard must always be had to real possibilities of corruption as well as the prevailing circumstances and whether they allow Members to exercise their vote in a manner that does not expose them to illegitimate hardships.” You have been given the responsibility, as the impartial Speaker of the House, to consider the quite unabashed intimidation already suffered by ANC MPs, as well as the threat of future adverse repercussions should the vote be open. These are not matters to be toyed with and we beseech you to apply your mind, being fully aware of 1) the entire ruling of the Constitutional Court and 2) what might happen to these public representatives if the ballot is not secret. 4. The UDM wants a secret ballot In conclusion, I wish to reiterate the arguments we placed before the Constitutional Court and stress the UDM’s point of view that NA MPs must be protected so that they may vote according to their conscience and therefore in the favour of our people. Yours sincerely Bantu Holomisa, MP UDM President
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10 Jul, 2017
Safe child abandonment” Is a sensitive issue”
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) believes that the publication and circulation of pictures of a woman leaving a new born baby at the premises of a safe house in Goodwood, Cape Town, is not the correct way of handling this situation. It is quite possible that the Pink Ladies’ poster, and the subsequent sharing thereof, could put the woman in the photograph in danger. Vigilantism has to be considered and this woman may be good Samaritan, who will be persecuted. Even if it’s her baby, exposing her in this fashion makes a delicate situation untenable. Far too often, women behave in this manner when they feel that they don’t have any options and there are a variety of reasons; extreme poverty, teenage pregnancy, violent homes, rape, societal ridicule and shame, a patriarchal society, ignorance, as well as psychological considerations such as postnatal depression; amongst others. Societal inequalities unfortunately sometimes drive women to do desperate things and they require support, not condemnation. Also, if a safe haven’s trust with a community is broken, as would be the case with Ubuntu House, many women could feel forced to rather throw their new-borns in dustbins and pit toilets. The Department of Social Development should do more to address this scourge in our society. In the same breath, the bigger picture should be addressed and Government has a responsibility to help our people to live safe and responsible lives in an environment that is conducive to economic independence and stability of each and every household. End
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27 Jun, 2017
Having a royal time in South African prisons
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The Department of Correctional Service does not cease to amaze. In February this year, the Gauteng Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane splurged more than R60 000 of taxpayers’ money treating prisoners at Leeuwkop (Midrand) to a KFC meal. A week ago, Tourism Minister Tokozile Xasa caused an uproar when she presented 30 laptops to inmates of the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Pretoria (with 70 more laptops to be handed over to incarcerated criminals in future). What does tourism have to do with corrections? Besides, why give laptops and not stationary, locked-down computers in a laboratory setting? One wonders what the insurance payment for these laptops are, or does the Minister consider it a write-off? The worst of these examples of a dysfunction correctional system, is the publicly available photos of what can only be described as a salacious strip show, that inmates at the Johannesburg’s Medium B prison had the pleasure to participate in – and that in the name of Youth Day! This is wrong on so many levels, one does not know where to start. We hope that the Department of Corrections’ investigation gets to the bottom of this inappropriate event and that the organisers (especially if prison officials were involved) suffer some punitive consequences. The UDM believes that imprisonment is not supposed to be a joy-ride. Yes, inmates should be given an opportunity to rehabilitate themselves, but such incongruent Government interventions do not make any sense. Instead of imprisonment being a crime deterrent, potential offenders will see these as perks of imprisonment; not only do you get a roof over your head and three meals a day, but you can eat take-aways, keep your Facebook profile updated and watch scantily clad women dance. This clearly shows that the ANC-led government, with its departments, continue to dismally fail citizens. End
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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09 Jun, 2017
UDM calls for plan and timelines of the revitalisation and revamping of inner city of Tshwane
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General UDM calls for plan and timelines of the revitalisation and revamping of inner city of Tshwane The United Democratic Movement (UDM) appreciates the commitment made by the City of Tshwane to revitalise and revamp the inner city. We hope that the renovation of old buildings in the central business district is part of this and will be a priority. This will help to bring down the high rate of crime that is currently taking place in these buildings and in the streets. Most of the streets with these buildings are difficult to walk pass by because muggers commit crimes and hibernate into them. It becomes very difficult for security agencies to apprehend them. These buildings are a hazard and they make innocent people more vulnerable. Some of these buildings are also used as brothels and drug dens. They also harbour illegal immigrants. With these renovations we hope to see a huge difference. People will be able to walk free along the streets in the CBD. However, as the UDM, we want to see the plan and timelines of the revitalisation and revamping of the inner city. The society is sick and tired of unfulfilled promises made by authorities. The landlords of these buildings must also play a vital role in their renovations and they must begin to take responsibility of what is happening in them. End
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02 Jun, 2017
UDEMWO calls for justice on child abusers
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General As the country commemorates another week of Children’s Week, the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) calls for the hand of justice not to be lenient to children abusers and murderers. Children have become vulnerable in the hands of evil doers and they must pay for their actions. Since the beginning of the year, more than 19 children have been killed in the Western Cape province alone while the killings continue throughout the country. This includes the cannibalism that took place in Port St Johns. This gives a clear indication that we are living in a cruel society. Most of these children died in the hands of the people close to them or someone they know. It cannot be that we continue living in such a society. We want justice to be served and a lot more needs to be done in making sure that children are protected and they feel safe. Everyday a child dies horribly and perpetrators continue to live amongst the community where they committed crimes. This must stop. The government together with all the stakeholders involved must come forward and tell the community about its plan to curb the crimes. We believe that the community has a vital role to play in making sure that the children are protected. We must go back to basics where my neighbour’s child is my child. End
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31 May, 2017
Protecting Women and Girl Children against violence and abuse (Rule 84) by Mr Lennox Gaehler, MP in the NCOP
Honourable Chairperson and Honourable Members The United Democratic Movement (UDM) joins millions of South Africans to declare, violence and abuse of women and girlchildren, a crime against humanity. Violence against women and girls is rooted in gender-based discrimination and social norms, as well as gender stereotypes that perpetuate such violence. The recent spate of gruesome murders of girls and infants, have a devastating effect on girls, women and society in general, and must be rejected by all. As a nation, we must never tolerate crime, the crime against women and girls must be stopped now. We must do everything legal, to prevent it from happening and address its root and structural causes. Prevention must entail, supporting the implementation of the laws, policies and programmes that place a strong focus on the promotion of gender equality, women’s empowerment and their enjoyment of human rights. Working together, as women, girls, men and boys, we must accelerate progress in preventing and ending violence against women and girls. Awareness raising and community mobilisation, including through traditional forms of communication, the mainstream and social media. The “Not in My Name” campaign by men must be part of our daily life. It must be a collective responsibility and an obligation of both men and boys to prevent and end violence against girls and women. Working with faith leaders, traditional leaders and communities, we must change the social norms and harmful practices, acknowledge and act against gender injustices. Government must too, ensure that the girlchild is protected and make available all the institutional function to give security to the girls. Abuse of girls through child labour is illegal and we have a responsibility to monitor the labour market and ensure that this is abolished. There must be a concerted drive to ensure that all girls enjoy full and equal access to education with the necessary support to keep them focused on the development of their future. A girlchild must be taught and encouraged to accept that there is no small or insignificant violence; all violence is gross violence and is a crime, and therefore must immediately be reported to law enforcement agencies at the time of its occurrence. Law enforcement agencies must be trained and taught on how to respond and manage gender-based violence. As society, we must build working families and household that respect human life. Criminals, who murder our young women must have no place in our homes, political parties, churches, schools, sports, and arts and cultural associations and in the society in general. I thank you
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30 May, 2017
Debate on Budget Vote 26 – Energy by address by Mr Lennox Gaehler, MP
Honourable Chairperson and Honourable Members Electricity is a fundamental factor in a wide range of socio-economic matters; it is the lifeblood of an economically and socially active community. Reliable electricity has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life of the poor, in particular, those in rural areas. We need to make it a priority to promote and incorporate all viable options for electricity generation. We must aim to ensure that every household has access to reliable electricity. The United Democratic Movement (UDM) calls on Government that, in rolling out solar and wind energy, we should give priority to rural communities and this programme should be conducted speedily. So far, what we have noticed that electrification does not reach to the deep rural areas in particular the Eastern Cape. An example, is wards 18 and 28 in the Mbhashe Municipality, Eastern Cape. Even after citizens took to the streets, and were promised intervention, to date, no electricity has been delivered in these areas and there is no acceptable explanation. We must agree, across the political spectrum that rural poverty constitutes a national crisis and is a grave injustice. Whilst there may be no silver bullet for the desperate conditions facing millions of the rural poor, the growing need for affordable energy has the potential to contribute to the rural socio-economic development. The wind energy provides a cheap reliable and mature source of energy and economic development; and is an integral part of South Africa’s energy mix. Lastly, and whilst it may not directly fall under your portfolio, Honourable Ministers, it is UDM’s firm position that the leadership problems at Eskom needs to fixed. Political interference needs to stop and stop now. We need a functional Eskom so that the Country’s electricity challenges can be addressed without compromise. The UDM supports the policy debate on Budget Vote 26. I thank you Address by Mr LB Gaehler, MP and UDM Eastern Cape Representative in the National Council of Provinces
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26 May, 2017
Investigation into matters relating to the dispute between the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of NMBMM
Introduction The ACDP, COPE and FF Plus (the “Panel”) was requested to provide an opinion on a dispute in the coalition in PE and to adjudicate whether the parties in dispute are in breach of the Coalition Agreement (“Agreement”). The three parties resolved among itself to adjudicate the matter on a balance of probability. The following needs to be noted: The adjudication is performed purely on the papers; No single comprehensive affidavits from both parties setting out arguments and issues chronologically with supporting annexures were furnished, and thus made connecting the various issues (argument and counter-argument) cumbersome; Many of the issues submitted are mere accusations with no proof provided to support the veracity thereof; The issues submitted with documentary proof was helpful, but are in some respects still lacking in making a finding. As far as disputes regarding the legality or not of decisions – and many of the disputes centre around this – none of the parties presented evidence of having sought independent legal advice and submitted those legal opinions for scrutiny by the Panel, save for one referred to by the EM – but was not submitted for scrutiny. It is to be noted that the Panel is not a body constituted with legal experts and thus cannot pronounce on the correctness or not of the two opposing legal positions; The DEM’s comprehensive rebuttal of the allegations against him references many annexures, NONE of which were attached. This seriously prejudices his version of events and as such the contents will have to be accepted as bona fide and correct. The Panel had barely three days since instruction to apply their minds. Therefore, care must be taken in using this document to base any prejudicial decisions upon. At most, this document, its observations and conclusions can only be used as a guide to implement the Coalition Agreement’s dispute resolution provisions, which are based on finding consensus on the way forward. In the event that the Coalition and parties would like this Panel to make substantive and informed findings in order to provide proper direction with legal effect, it is advised that this Panel, or another constituted panel, holds a proper hearing where oral and other evidence is submitted and tested. Coalition Agreement: The following guiding principles of the Agreement must be kept in mind: The parties to the Agreement are equals and no one party has a higher status than the other on any basis, including size. As with all agreements, the requirement of good faith – and therefore ‘trust’ – is important. Its preamble sets out very important objectives for the public good which can only be achieved by way of cooperation between the parties. On page 2 under the heading “Co-governance in Municipalities” very important and practical directives are set out that supports the notion that all parties in coalition are equal in status (bullet point one), will fulfil its election undertakings made to their respective constituencies (bullet point three), will receive recognition for their work in the coalition government (implied in bullet points one and three) and will collectively work for the greater good of all the people in the particular municipality (bullet point 2 and the remainder of bullet points). On page 3 under the heading “Managing Co-Governance”, certain mechanisms are created to deal with any disputes between parties. The agreement is patently and clearly about co-governance and collaboration. Therefore, mutuality has to prevail and in fact to a considerable degree. Every act of every member of the coalition, in the given circumstances, has to be rigorously tested for mutuality, reciprocity, transparency, good faith and reasonable give and take. These are totally essential to the success of a coalition. The ostensible purpose of the coalition in Nelson Mandela Bay is to reflect governance characterised by integrity and a clear commitment to “bringing open, honest, accountable and responsive government to the people of South Africa”. To what extent has the emphasis been on attaining the above goal and which member of the coalition has not pulled his or her weight in the above regard? Dispute: In this analysis, not all of the issues will be dealt with due to the limitations of the evidence presented set out above. However, the following conclusion can be made: A complete breakdown of trust between the party exists; The various allegations have given rise to the following two opposing perceptions and positions: EM: that the DEM is uncontrollable, acts irrationally, undermines the coalition and must now be replaced; DEM: that the EM is domineering and infringes upon the autonomy of the DEM as a representative of a separate and independent political party and that the EM does not consult properly with the DEM. A racial dimension is also present. This positioning has now due to various acts, accusations and counter-accusations escalated into an impossible situation. The breakdown in trust is in violation of the Agreement. It is, however, not possible to decide who is truly at fault. The evidence indicates acts of departure from the Agreement by both parties, especially as the dispute escalated. Findings: The Coalition Agreement is being undermined by the current state of affairs and a fundamental breach has already occurred due to the breakdown in trust between the parties. We are not making a finding who is at fault as this falls outside the instructions to the Panel and cannot be made in any event due to the incomplete state of the available evidence. Finding: the issue of personality and power mongering has subsumed every other consideration as the correspondence reveals. Substantive issues gave way to open and unceasing bickering. The investigation confined itself to looking into violations of the governance agreement. Some issues are not covered by the agreement or the papers presented but are from subsequent letters from the DA and UDM and are laid out in observations. The findings are laid out beneath the relevant clause in the agreement. The agreement entered into by the coalition partners is rooted in the joint acknowledgement that the government they form in each municipality “must be qualitatively different from the administrations they are replacing”. In particular, the new government “must use public resources to benefit all the people; … root out corruption wherever it manifests itself and by whomsoever it is committed; … be caring particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable citizens; … provide opportunities for people to get ahead, … and strive to provide safety for all within the mandate given to municipalities”. Visible acts will include, “transferring title deeds to occupants, (and ensuring) the provision of early childhood development, the supply of water, electricity, sanitation and refuse removal to all inhabitants”. This is the second test that must apply. We are determined to place all the inhabitants of the municipalities at the centre of service delivery where we co-govern. Finding: the issue of one’s preferred candidates to fill posts became a two-way tug of war eclipsing the above considerations. The cause of the poor fell by the wayside. This should have consequences for those escalating the problem. For these reasons, the Parties commit themselves, in the municipalities in which they are the government, to abide by the following principles: Reference to our coalition governments will reflect the constituent parties in the coalition. Finding: Referring to the government as the DA led coalition violates the agreement. Our coalition governments will act in the interests of all the residents of those municipalities, whether or not they are supporters of the coalition Parties, in an effort to improve and uplift the lives of all the people of the municipalities, and to promote social cohesion. Our coalition governments will land the broad thrust of the parties’ municipal manifestos, into the Integrated Development Plan of the municipalities. Where there are aspects of incompatibility, these will be the subject of negotiation. Finding: The IDP process was not consultative. Our coalition governments are committed to infrastructure-led growth: investment in infrastructural service provision (roads, weekly refuse removal, utility provision) and above-inflation budgetary allocation to repairs and maintenance of municipal infrastructure. Our coalition governments are committed to sound and sustainable financial management. This means that all the necessary management interventions must be in place and respected to achieve unqualified and/or clean audits. Finding: If everything was done by the book nothing would need to have been said but to point to the book. Competent legal and audit service would have given oral and written advice. Instead of doing just that, the national leaders were being called upon repeatedly to referee the endless fights. If any party was seeking to exert undue and irregular influence or was guilty of using bullying tactics, charges should have been formulated and the Speaker should have referred the matter to the disciplinary committee to investigate. That is why the disciplinary committee exists in Council. Finding: 1 hour overtime decision may result in a qualified audit opinion which breaches the agreement. Other parties should have been consulted. Our coalition governments will establish an open and transparent tender system – public tender committee meetings and a comprehensive and up-to-date service provider database. Our coalition governments will have a zero tolerance for corruption on the part of both politicians and professional staff, as well as a commitment to take all the necessary action to detect and interdict corruption, and to take disciplinary steps and/or to lay criminal charges against those responsible. Finding: Suborning payment to companies that are under investigation for corruption and meeting with and speaking to staff members who are also under investigation could cause a serious breach in the legal process, costing the NMB metro severe financial loss. It is prudent and correct to request members of the government (all parties) not to meet with or talk to staff or companies with pending legal cases. Finding: there is no provision here for the unilateral laying of charges with the police and the firing off of letters to the Minister and MEC without the involvement of other partners. The mayor as well as the deputy mayor ought to be engaging all the members of the coalition at all times and particularly when matters of importance arose. As a result of the mayor and the deputy mayor slugging it out as individuals and rushing to the media, the situation has been made untenable. Our coalition governments will avoid irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure, and a commitment to take action against those responsible (politically and administratively) for such expenditure. Our coalition governments will select a “fit for purpose” executive management team, including the municipal manager and the executive directors, and will place an absolute prohibition of nepotism in appointments. Our coalition governments will also seek to fill vacancies on the staff establishment as rapidly as possible, preferably within 90 days. Finding: In the appointment of senior management it is accepted practise that legal opinions given by a structure’s own legal advisors are accepted and acted upon in said structure. It forms a rational and legally defensible decision. Disagreements must be referred to the dispute resolution mechanism. Nepotism refers to an official unfairly advantaging family members in appointments. This is not the case in the suggested appointments of senior management. The law insists that the best person for the position must be offered the job taking into account equity laws. The coalition agreement states that there will be no cadre appointments which is commonly understood to be unfairly advantaging party members. This should have been resolved in the dispute resolution mechanism. Berating and accusing staff is unacceptable. This should be referred to the disciplinary mechanisms of the council. Shouting at and swearing at staff is equally unacceptable. All of the parties should have been convened and consensus striven for. Failing that the majority decision must hold. Holding back progress without clear legislative or constitutional support retards progress. Our coalition governments will allocate housing opportunities fairly, on the basis of an audited, transparent and non-racial housing waiting list database and with the transfer of title deeds. Our coalition governments will likewise allocate EPWP opportunities fairly based on an up-to-date work-seekers’ database. Allied to this, they will interdict of the allocation of such opportunities for favours or on the basis of political affiliation. Our coalition governments will implement policies that ensure effective debt collection, while developing a fair indigent policy. Our coalition governments will be open and transparent, and will not unreasonably withhold information from the public. Our coalition governments will place a ban on the use of blue-light convoys and the excessive executive office perks and privileges, such as the use of official vehicles (except where real security concerns dictate this), travel, the upgrading of offices, and so on. Finding: The agreement clearly states a ban on blue lights. Where possible, our coalition governments will invest in integrated public transport and broadband as enhancers of opportunity. Our coalition governments commit themselves to open, transparent and consultative government, and the institution of systems and processes to ensure this. In the metros, our governments will instate sub-councils. In bigger and far-flung municipalities, this may mean decentralised administration. Managing Co-Governance The Parties accept that co-governance requires special measures to enhance co-operation and mutual trust. Accordingly, the Parties’ governance will be based on the following: The Parties commit themselves to seek consensus on any matter relating to the administration of the Council and must make every reasonable effort to settle any disagreement or dispute by means of the mechanisms provided for in this agreement. The Parties undertake to make the agendas of any plenary meeting of the Council or any committee of the Council available to all the councillors at least seven (7) days before that meeting. The Parties agree not to introduce any new matter, or any amendment to a matter, unless the matter or amendment has been dealt with in the manner prescribed in this agreement. The Parties agree to give adequate notice of any matter, save for matters of strict exigency, that any party intends to raise and any meeting of the Council or a committee, and will supply additional documentation so as to allow the other party(ies) the time to arrive at an informed decision. The Parties agree to establish a Political Management Committee (PMC) in each municipality in which they co-govern, consisting of the leader of each of the coalition partners in that council. The PMC shall meet as often as necessary, but shall meet at the request of any of the Parties, and at least five (5) days before every plenary meeting of the Council. Where it meets at the request of any Party, it shall convene within seventy-two (72) hours of the request being made. The PMC will be assisted with secretarial services by one or more appropriately qualified municipal official(s). Finding: Every effort should have been made by both parties to resolve their differences. This agreement should have been the basis of tackling every issue. Unfortunately, the correspondence does not show that the agreement was being minutely referenced. The agreement is very detailed. If it was laid out with numbers, it would have served as a kind of constitution Any Party which disagrees with or has misgivings about any matter being proposed before the Council or a committee must raise the issue at the PMC. Should it not be possible to reach consensus in the PMC, the matter will be withdrawn from the agenda of the council or committee, and the issue will be escalated to the Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM). Finding: In the matter of the appointment Ms Zitumani we agree that it should have been referred to the dispute resolution mechanism. The Deputy Mayor has without invoking dispute resolution voted 3 times against the government resolutions. The DRM shall consist of the provincial leader of the Parties or his or her nominee and one additional member from each Party. The DRM must convene to consider any matters referred to it within seven (7) days of receipt thereof, and must attempt to resolve the matters by consensus. If the matter is unable to be resolved by the DRM, it must be referred to the national leaders of the Parties to take whatever steps they believe appropriate. Finding: The bi-lateral meetings to attempt to resolve the differences have breached the agreement by not invoking the dispute mechanism arrangements. The Parties further agree that their councillors in municipalities jointly controlled by the two or more parties will not unreasonably, openly, publicly or in any medium, including social media, criticise the members or the policies of another party to this agreement. If one party believes, with good cause, that a councillor through his or her actions or statements, is bringing the good name or reputation of the coalition into disrepute, or who is acting in an unreasonable or uncooperative manner, that party may refer the matter to the DRM. Finding: It is not acceptable for a coalition partner to make public allegations against another leader in the coalition government. However, it is of extreme concern that recordings of meetings have been leaked to the media. This whole dispute has been carried into the public, disgracing the whole NMB metro government. It is in the best interest of that government to conduct an investigation of the matter and prevent any other leaks to the media. Announcing corruption investigations on a portfolio of any Mayco member without informing or discussing the matter with said member is in breach of the coalition. However, it is accepted that, where one party has a serious moral or principled objection to any matter, or where it has been impossible to arrive at consensus on any matter, that party retains the right to disagree and to criticise the majority viewpoint both within and outside the Council, whilst still retaining the governance agreement: provided that the party concerned first seeks consensus on the matter in the manner provided for in this agreement. Finding : Based on the papers supplied the dispute resolution mechanism was not used to iron out any differences therefore the public criticisms in this case are in breach of the agreement . Nothing in this agreement shall prohibit any party from advancing, commenting on, mobilising on or demonstrating for or against any political issues, in terms of that party’s constitution. Executives The Parties agree that, where this is provided for in terms of the legislation and provincial choices, the municipalities will retain the Executive Mayoral system (with a mayoral committee), but that the mayoral committees will operate in an open, transparent and accountable way. The initial positions (mayors, speakers, mayoral and executive committee members, sub-council chairs, delegates to the district councils) on each council in which the Parties are in coalition will be negotiated by the leadership of the Parties. Should a vacancy arise, this vacancy will be filled by a person nominated by the party which held that position, in consultation with the Mayor. In the event that the Mayor unreasonably refuses to accept the person nominated by that party, the matter may be referred to the DRM for resolution. Likewise, the delegation of specific responsibilities to each mayoral committee or executive committee member will be the prerogative of the Mayor, but such prerogative may be referred to the DRM should any party object to such delegation. Note: The national leader of the DA agreed to rescind their letter stating their intention to replace the DEM in the health portfolio. The mechanism has been invoked by the National Party Leaders and an investigation is in process. Finding: It seems that many members of the coalition are not conversant with the terms of this agreement. It would be prudent to have a workshop in each coalition government to ensure that the agreement is understood and used as a guide to manage governance. NOTE: It was not possible given the time frame and in some cases a lack of evidence to make a finding on every issue that was raised Observations It is of great concern that after all Parties had decided on a way forward both the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor made public statements which negated the terms we had agreed upon. The media statement by the Executive Mayor breached the agreement that the national leaders had made to keep issues out of the media to protect the coalition and engender trust in the government. The agreement also stated that the status quo remain until the outcome of the investigation. By making his statements he directly contradicted the joint statement and added fuel to fire. The DEM by organising a public demonstration also undermined the leaders’ decision. It also most definitely did not engender trust in the government both actions were disgraceful. National Leaders’ decisions and agreements must be adhered to by all parties. In addition, the other parties and Mayco members have expressed their support for the Executive Mayor in writing. Anton Alberts FF+ Farouk Cassim Cope Jo-Ann Downs ACDP
Admin
26 May, 2017
Debate on Budget Vote 40 – Sport and Recreation South Africa by Mr Mncedisi Filtane, MP
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) supports the budget vote. The budget reduction in this department does not augur well for the promotion, development and transformation of sport in our Country. Already, compensation to the departmental employees had to be reduced on an escalating scale during the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, totalling R4.9 million. The next victims of this reduction are goods and services. Regrettably, the very people who would have benefitted from the programmes of this department stand to suffer severely. When departmental officials and sport practitioners are locked in office, and therefore cannot reach-out to communities, due to budget cuts, the development of sport and recreation activities are compromised. It also, means that there will be less usage of the sporting facilities already available and this may result in such facilities being white elephants. The economic activity that is a natural by-product of sport and recreation, activism, will be lost in the process. Nevertheless, the UDM welcomes the newly appointed Minister and his team to the batting crease. Minister, you are now facing the first bouncer, which you have to deal with in the first over. The second new ball you have to face is that of provinces, which are failing to obtain data from their distant district offices. So, as technology has been targeted as a cost-saving area, the flow of information to and from district offices will be hampered. Nationally, this will impede the department’s ability to plan ahead. No data, no detailed planning. The potential result you are about to get, will be, either you are bowled out or caught at leg-off, as you try to scoop the ball for 6 runs. Also, savings on facilities means that less facilities will be accessible to the sporting bodies. Yes, the time has come for the Memorandum of Agreement between Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) and the Department of Basic Education to be reviewed, because the relationship between the two departments has yielded minimal results, so far. A better working relationship between these departments has the potential to identify, nurture, mould and develop the young talent that this country need so dearly. In the same context, a working relationship can also be used to host those with less intellectual capacity, but excellent sports orientation, to develop their talent and ultimately make a career in sport. In that way, job opportunities will have been created. Penalising non-compliant provinces is most welcome since school sport is the foundation on which transformation can be built. The intensive support for volleyball in 2017 is much appreciated. They have been in the cold for far too long. Minister, your other challenge is the high up-and-under that you are facing in rugby, and that is sustaining as well as supporting transformation. You may not knock on that ball, or else the wings will pick it up and score under the posts, thus reversing all the yards made under the stewardship of your predecessor. Shame Mbaks, ubuzama kodwa. Bafana–Bafana are with their new coach are on the nation’s radar. We expect better from them under your stewardship. In this regard, and at the risk of contradicting my principal, I wish Orlando Pirates to show them the way on 24 June at reclaim the Nedbank Cup.
Admin
25 May, 2017
UDM welcomes investigation into billions of rand lost due to negligent health care workers, statement by Bongani Msomi
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is shocked by the exorbitant amount of tax payers’ money that is lost because of the Department of Health’s negligence. Spending R43 billion on lawsuits is ridiculous and it is even more concerning that nothing much is being done to put a stop to the wastage. We cannot be losing money, and especially not such a large amount, due to the carelessness of medical practitioners and health workers. Reports in the public domain allege that some universities, such as University of KwaZulu-Natal, sell medical qualifications to dropouts and/or undeserving graduates. This alleged practice could be exacerbating the problem and can be avoided if proper vetting is done. If bogus doctors are identified, the Department must “blacklist” them so that they are not employed anywhere in the public service. Patients who use our public health care facilities deserve better.
