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08 Aug, 2017
Subject for discussion: vote of no confidence in President Zuma – address by Mr B Holomisa, MP (UDM President) in the national assembly of the Republic of South Africa
Honourable Speaker, Honourable Members, Fellow South Africans. Following the success of the United Democratic Movement (UDM), by creating a safety net for all members of parliament, through voting by secret ballot, we have to seize the opportunity to put the people and the country first. In this regard, let us vote against the abuse of power, the infamous bogus intelligence report, and the abuse of the resources of our people. Let us vote against the threats to our sovereignty, and the Constitutional order. Let us vote against Mr Zuma, the Chief Architect of State Capture. As if that is not enough, Mr Zuma had a courage to mislead the house, about a bond to his private house. Later on, he goes to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), to mislead that house too. He said the Public Protector never gave him a fair chance respond to allegation against him yet he was given no less than 4 hours. In years to come, the history we are writing today, shall not only be read and taught, but it will also determine the socio-economic and political future of our country. Whatever we do this afternoon, it must be for and about South Africa. The electorate has bestowed upon us a responsibility to collectively stay true to the vision, the mission and the goals of our country, as espoused in our Constitution. We are also called upon, to live up to the values and ideals of those who came before us and founded the Constitutional Democracy, we now enjoy and must defend at all costs. Accordingly, these challenges must propel us to do everything within the confines of the law, and redirect the downward trajectory that has visited our country under the leadership of Mr Zuma, into an opportunity to recapture the historic mission of our nation and the constitution. In order to succeed, we need an unwavering loyalty and allegiance to the collective people of South Africa who by numbers, far exceed the collective totality of our party membership. Fellow South Africans, the urgent task of defeating poverty, unemployment, inequality and corruption, cannot be achieved under the conditions of perpetual thievery and lawlessness that continue to characterise the leadership of Mr Zuma. Today, I repeat, is not about regime change but restoration of hope that our country can still be saved from the brink of collapse. We must inspire this hope to all South Africans who as we debate, are in front of this parliament, in streets of our country and some watching at their homes. Let South Africa be a winner. I thank you.
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07 Aug, 2017
MONC secret ballot: UDM reaction to speaker’s decision
Statement by Bantu Holomisa, MP and UDM President The United Democratic Movement (UDM) welcomes the Speaker’s decision to grant the request for a secret ballot when the National Assembly tomorrow votes on the motion of no-confidence in Mr Zuma. When the UDM made this request in April, we knew very well that she not only has the right, but also the responsibility to act; and act responsibly. We hope that all 400 members of the National Assembly will put South Africa first and vote in favour of the motion. We must also stress that tomorrow’s vote is not about a regime change but about saving South Africa from an irredeemably compromised President. Any Member who is threatened, either by his/her party or any other person, is now protected both in terms of the voting method and in law. It is time for public representatives to be true to their oaths of office, and South Africa, irrespective from which political party they come.
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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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04 Aug, 2017
UDM President Bantu Holomisa, MP – The motion of no confidence debate and the secret ballot
Speaking notes for UDM President Bantu Holomisa, MP The motion of no confidence debate and the secret ballot on 4 August 2017 at the Cape Town Press Club, Grill Room, Kelvin Grove, Cape Town, at 13:00 Programme Director Ladies and gentlemen Introduction South Africans have long agreed that Mr Zuma is no longer a legitimate President of the Country. The damning Constitutional Court judgment which found that he failed to respect, uphold and defend the Constitution, sealed his fate. The rest of the daily revelations, on the ills of his presidency, are a vindication of the point that he has completely lost the plot. This is a man who will, in the next four days, face the eighth motion of no confidence in him. This means that on average Mr Zuma has faced at least one motion of no confidence for every year of his presidency. I make this point to simply illustrate that there is overwhelming consensus that Mr Zuma should urgently vacate this honourable office, because he is no longer honourable. The Constitutional Court expressed itself again when it confirmed, on the 22nd of June, that the Speaker has the discretionary power to determine the voting method for a no-confidence motion. It also counselled her on how to discharge that power, in the interest of the Constitution and the citizens of South African, and confirmed public representatives’ obligations to our constitutional democracy. The Secret Ballot The call for a secret ballot is no longer a United Democratic Movement matter, but one for each and every South African. The Conference for the Future of South Africa (held on 18 July), which was attended by no less than 130 civil society organisations, confirmed the need for Mr Zuma’s immediate departure, as well as that of a secret ballot. Every day the ruling party – through its Secretary General (SG), its Chief Whip or any other member – vindicates the citizens’ call for a secret ballot. We all know that the Speaker is heavily conflicted and is unlikely to take her cue from the Constitution or listen to the guidance of the Constitutional Court. As always, her decision will be a Luthuli House decision. The fact that she is delaying her decision speaks volumes. Scenarios If the Speaker grants a secret ballot, the debate will follow and the vote will take place as planned. We can only hope that all 400 members of the National Assembly (NA) will listen to the Constitutional Court’s guidance and put South Africa first by voting in favour of the motion. If the motion succeeds, the Constitution provides for the resignation of the President, the Deputy President and all members of the Executive. The Speaker would then act as President and, within 30 days, an election of the new President must take place. The UDM will respect the electorate’s 2014-choice of voting the African National Congress (ANC) into power. The removal of Mr Zuma is not about regime change but about a clean and responsive governance. If the Speaker does not grant the secret ballot, there are two possibilities: Firstly, and depending on her grounds for refusal, the Speaker’s decision may be referred for judicial review. In this case, the parties that moved the motion may have to withdraw pending such a review. This applies whether the Speaker announces her decision on the eve, or on the day, of the debate. Secondly, the debate may continue as planned and an open vote takes place. In this case, our interest (and those of South Africans) will be focussed on the ANC-benches. We would want to see whether the ANC members are: loyal to their personal financial interests, their ANC factional interests or the interests of the Country and its citizens. It is equally important to see who, amongst the 400 NA members, are loyal to the Constitution and the Country, as opposed to those who want to defend the indefensible. We know, that the “other faction” of the ANC would wish to kick the ball into touch and prevent this debate from taking place in 2017. They intend to wait until Mr Zuma is no longer ANC President so that they can ask him to step down or move the same motion from their own quarters. The ANC SG is on record saying that it is not easy to remove a sitting ANC president from the Union Buildings. On August the 8th We call on all UDM members and citizens in general to join the national wide protests and those who can, march to parliament on the day. Beyond the 8th of August Irrespective of the outcome of the debate and the vote on Tuesday, South Africa will still need to function. The UDM will continue betting on a wicket of anti-corruption and clean governance. In this regard, we will prevail on whoever is the head of government to: Ensure that the revelations found in the popular “Gupta emails”, are acted upon, by, amongst others, ensuring that the relevant state institutions are doing their work. Police must investigate and arrest, the Prosecution Authority must prosecute and secure convictions. Suspend all Ministers and state officials who are alleged to have done wrong, pending the investigations. Ensure that all contracts suspected of been wrongly awarded, must be suspended. Provide support and security for all public servants and members of the public who are exposing corruption and wrong doing in state institutions. Provide full support to all Chapter Nine Institutions and clean the State Owned Enterprises of corrupt individuals. Rid the Country of lawlessness that seem to be the order of the day under Mr Zuma’s presidency. We will also support the criminal cases opened by citizens and organisations against all the people who are alleged to be guilty of corruption and fraudulent activities. We will continue to mobilise society against all forms of corruption, and in support of clean governance, and the respect of law and the Constitution. The struggle against state capture is not over and it will need all of us to work collectively and tirelessly against it. Conclusion Whatever the Speaker’s decision, we remain resolved to rid South Africa of a president whose primary occupation is the total collapse of the Country. Unlike the ANC, we are impatient with his continued stay in office and we will work hard to ensure that the Country is saved from him and his cronies. South Africans should seriously consider an electoral method that puts the power into their hands. The UDM champions the reform of our current electoral system in favour of the citizens, rather than the self-interested political parties. Twenty-three years of ANC abuse of power has taught us an expensive, but valuable lesson. I thank you
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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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15 Jul, 2017
SACP really going it alone or stage-managed strategy of the alliance?
The United Democratic Movement has noted that the South African Communist Party (SACP) will be contesting the 2019 National and Provincial Elections alone. In order for the SACP to prove that they are serious about this plan, all the party’s Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament and Legislatures, as well as Councillors, should immediately resign to prevent access to Government monies and resources to bolster their campaigns. It would not be far-fetched to say this this whole exercise is a stage-managed ruse to draw attention away from the lame African National Congress (ANC) leadership whose credibility is shot. The SACP is therefore stepping into the limelight to take the moral high ground, for now, and once the results are announced in 2019, the SACP and the ANC enter into a coalition government? The proof will therefore be in the pudding and only time will tell whether the SACP is serious about really separating itself from the ruling alliance. Statement by Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP UDM President
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14 Jul, 2017
Inappropriateness of Ms B Mbete presiding over the debate on the motion of no confidence in President Zuma
Honourable Ms Baleka Mbete, MP Speaker of the National Assembly PO Box 15 Cape Town 8000 Dear Madam Speaker Inappropriateness of your presiding over the debate on the motion of no confidence in President Zuma The above matter has reference. I write on behalf of the leaders of the African Christian Democratic Party, African People’s Convention, Congress of the People, Democratic Alliance, Economic Freedom Fighters, Inkatha Freedom Party and the United Democratic Movement. We met on 13 July, this instant, and resolved that it would not be proper for you, as Speaker of the National Assembly, to preside over the debate on the vote of no-confidence in President Zuma. We base our argument on the following grounds: You are on record instructing African National Congress (ANC) Members of Parliament in the National Assembly to vote in favour of their President; In the event of the success of the motion, you are enjoined by the Constitution to act as President; and You are also in the running for ANC President and by extension the President of the Country. Making matters worse is your recent attack on the judiciary. You have said that certain judges are biased against your party. Your action undermines your duty to act as liaison between Parliament, as an institution, and the other arms of State. It means that you still fail to separate your role as the head of the National Assembly and that of ANC Chairperson. All of the aforementioned demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you are patently biased and therefore conflicted and compromised. We also wish to remind you of the wise advice given by the Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, in the 22 June Constitutional Court’s judgement, He said the following about the power of those in public office: “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.” We hope that you will to do the right thing in the interest of the Nation and recuse yourself from presiding over this debate. Yours sincerely Mr Bantu Holomisa, MP UDM President
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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
Attack on young Mthatha woman: UDEMWO commends swift arrest
Statement issued by Thandi Nontenja – UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) commends the police officials on the swift arrest of suspects who allegedly raped and horrendously hacked a 19 year old woman in Xhwili village near Mthatha, Eastern Cape. This attack is another example of the escalation of gender based violence that we are witnessing in South Africa at the moment. These swift arrests are a good sign. We hope that the investigation will shed light and that those involved will soon be brought to book. The perpetrators must face the wrath of justice for their inhumane acts. UDEMWO reiterates its call to Minister of Women in the Presidency Susan Shabangu whose silence is deafening. We want to see a functional department that make real changes in women’s lives. End
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03 Jul, 2017
No real justice for victims: Punishment for sexual offenders is simply not to tough enough
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) reiterates its call for harsher punishment of those found guilty of abusing and murdering women and children. There also has to be stricter bail conditions, before such criminals are set loose on society. In these regards, the justice system has been failing women and children for years and years. It is said far too often, that criminals have more rights in South Africa, than the victims of crime do. In the case of gender-based violence and sexual offenses, the damage victims suffer is permanent and the offenders more or less walk away scot-free, or are not punished hard enough. There is a perception that the reoffending rate of rapists and murderers is high and one wonders if the reform and rehabilitation these offenders undergo in prison is really effective in preventing future crimes. The recent incident where scantily dressed women all but stripped for the inmates of the Johannesburg B prison is utterly shocking. Many of these men are said to be guilty of violent crime and are murderers and rapists. Our correctional services are definitely not correcting anything in this fashion. In addition, the efficacy of the National Register of Sex Offenders is questionable. Having limited public access to the register is not good enough. Although some would argue that citizens might become vigilantes and persecute sexual offenders if the register was freely available, there must be a balance between their right to privacy and citizens’ rights to be safe; we need to know whether we live amongst murderers and rapists. 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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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.
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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
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
06 Jun, 2017
Appointment of “sex- and pals-for-jobs” officials EC Legislature: Aloota Continua big time
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is shocked to learn that two senior managers at the Eastern Cape Legislature, implicated in a sex-for-jobs and jobs-for-pals scandal, have been rewarded with senior posts in another department. Human Resources management head Malibongwe Ngcai and strategic manager Basil Mase are now heading Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. This is a farce and it is saddening that corrupt officials are rewarded for their misdeeds. It is unfortunate that the ruling party does not realise the negative impact cadre deployment has on the nation. No one even wonders why the officials who are high up in hierarchy are implicated in such acts. The looting of the state resources is continuing unabated and no wonder the country has been degraded to a junk status. End
