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04 May, 2025
Role and pressures faced by the South African Police Service: criminals are out of control
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is concerned by the ongoing violence targeting members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the 31-year-old off-duty officer who was gunned down in Langa, Cape Town. Our police officers play an essential role in maintaining law and order in a country plagued by high levels of violent crime. They are on the front lines every day, responding to emergencies, investigating serious crimes, and confronting dangerous criminal networks, often with limited resources and support. In a society grappling with crime and social instability, their service is not only courageous but indispensable. The murder of police officers, particularly while off duty, reveals the deeply rooted and brazen nature of criminality in South Africa. According to reports, seventeen officers were killed between July and September 2024 alone, with thirteen of those attacks occurring while the victims were off duty. This week, yet another officer was found dead in her police vehicle in Camps Bay under suspicious circumstances, and foul play has not been ruled out. Also of grave concern are the tragic deaths of Constable Cebekhulu Linda, Constable Keamogetswe Buys and Constable Boipelo Senoge, who were reportedly kidnapped and hijacked on 23 April 2025 and later found dead. This deeply unsettling incident raises serious questions about the safety and wellbeing of our police officers. They also highlight the urgent need for transparent, thorough investigations that leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth. The UDM conveys its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the three constables. We call upon the SAPS leadership to urgently strengthen internal protection measures for officers both on and off duty. The government must increase investment in training, mental health support and the resourcing of police stations, particularly in communities that face severe levels of violent crime. We further call upon civil society to work hand in hand with law enforcement and to foster an environment where the dignity of policing is restored. Criminals must know that our officers are not soft targets and that harming them will bring swift and serious consequences. As a member of the Government of National Unity, the UDM remains committed to strengthening the capacity and safety of the SAPS. We cannot afford to lose more lives, nor can we tolerate a breakdown in the relationship between the public and those who serve them in uniform. Lastly, these incidents underscore a disturbing reality; if SAPS members, who are meant to uphold the law and protect citizens, are themselves targeted and killed with such apparent ease, it sends a chilling message about the state of lawlessness in our country. When police officers become fair game for criminals, it places every ordinary citizen in an even more vulnerable position. The erosion of safety within the ranks of law enforcement reflects a broader crisis of public security that must be urgently addressed.
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03 May, 2025
UDM Cape Town condemns arson attack on Kelly Smith’s home; urges respect for the rule of law
Statement by Bongani Maqungwana, UDM Councillor in the City of Cape Town The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Cape Town strongly condemns the burning of Kelly Smith’s Middelpos home following her conviction for the kidnapping and trafficking of Joshlin Smith. While we understand the anger and heartbreak that this case has stirred in the hearts of many South Africans, we cannot condone lawlessness. No matter how deep the pain, responding with violence or destruction of property is unacceptable. This kind of vigilantism does not serve the cause of justice. It weakens it. Arson is a criminal act and must be dealt with accordingly. Those responsible must face the consequences. The UDM in the City of Cape Town appeals to the public to allow the legal process to take its full course. The courts have made their ruling. Now, the focus must remain on uncovering the full truth and ensuring that Joshlin is found and justice is fully served. We call on the Saldanha Bay community, and the country at large, to act with dignity and restraint. Let us honour Joshlin’s name by upholding the principles of law, not by destroying lives and homes. The fight for justice is not won through fire. It is won through truth, unity and lawful action.
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03 May, 2025
UDEMWO welcomes justice in the Joshlin Smith case
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) welcomes the Western Cape High Court’s conviction of Raquel “Kelly” Smith and her co-accused for the kidnapping and trafficking of six-year-old Joshlin Smith. This judgment is a long-awaited step towards justice for Joshlin and the many South Africans who were shocked and horrified by her disappearance. The verdict confirms what so many in the community feared and suspected: that the very people who were meant to protect Joshlin were in fact the ones who betrayed her in the most vile and inhumane way. There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child. This case is a heartbreaking reminder that in this village, a child was not safe. It raises serious questions about the safety and well-being of children in vulnerable communities where social neglect; substance abuse and poverty too often go hand in hand. We commend Judge Nathan Erasmus for his clear and firm judgment, and we salute the community members of Saldanha Bay who searched for Joshlin and have continued to demand justice. We also acknowledge the work of law enforcement in bringing this case to trial and securing a conviction. UDEMWO calls on the Department of Social Development and all relevant government structures under the current Government of National Unity to urgently strengthen community-based child protection systems. Children should never fall through the cracks of a society that claims to care. UDEMWO continues to demand justice not just in courtrooms, but in homes, communities and institutions across the country. Let the memory of Joshlin Smith compel us all to protect the most vulnerable among us. Lastly, while UDEMWO welcomes the guilty verdict, we are deeply disturbed that the whereabouts of Joshlin Smith remain unknown. Justice cannot end with a conviction alone. The guilty must be compelled to tell the truth about what happened to Joshlin. They must reveal where she is and bring her back. The courts have spoken, but the most important question remains unanswered. We demand full accountability, not only for the crime, but for the pain and unanswered questions that continue to haunt her family and community.
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03 May, 2025
UDM questions ACDP's silence on MPAC Chairperson's failures in Mtubatuba
Statement by Remington Mazibuko, Councillor in the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality and UDM KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Chairperson The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality calls on the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) in KwaZulu-Natal to urgently account for the failures of its member, Cllr Nonhlanhla Ncube, who currently chairs the Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC). The MPAC, under Cllr Ncube’s leadership, has failed to exercise its critical oversight role, as confirmed by Council reports highlighting ongoing irregular expenditure and financial mismanagement in the Municipality. Despite these serious failings, Cllr Ncube has faced no consequences and attempts by the UDM to table a Motion of No Confidence in her leadership have been deliberately blocked. It is deeply disappointing that the ACDP, a party that claims to champion accountability and ethical leadership, has thus far remained silent on this matter. Their inaction raises serious questions about their commitment to clean governance. We ask: Will the ACDP continue to shield Cllr Ncube, or will it stand with the people of Mtubatuba who are suffering the consequences of failed oversight and collapsing service delivery? We therefore call on the ACDP to take the public into its confidence and clarify whether it supports accountability in local government, or whether it is content to ignore the dereliction of duty by one of its own. The residents of Mtubatuba deserve answers, not silence.
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03 May, 2025
UDM condemns medical negligence towards JMPD officer and calls for systemic accountability
Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Johannesburg is appalled and disturbed by the inhumane and unethical treatment of a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer who was reportedly denied emergency medical care after being shot in the line of duty. We have noted with grave concern that Milpark Hospital allegedly refused to treat the officer - who had sustained two gunshot wounds to the upper body - citing an alleged municipal debt of R35 million. The City has since clarified that the actual outstanding amount is R3.9 million, with ongoing weekly payments being made. This discrepancy between fact and conduct highlights a systemic failure in both communication and healthcare ethics. This is not merely an administrative dispute. It is a gross violation of the constitutional right to life and access to emergency healthcare. That a frontline officer - injured while protecting residents of Johannesburg - could be subjected to such neglect is unacceptable and reprehensible. As the UDM, we firmly support the City's intention to lodge a formal complaint with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). We further urge that this incident be treated not only as an ethical breach, but also as a test case for accountability in the private healthcare sector. No financial ledger should take precedence over a human life - especially the life of one who serves and protects the public. We also call on the Speaker of Council and relevant authorities to ensure that councillors refrain from issuing statements that are not grounded in verified facts. In moments of crisis, our collective responsibility is to provide clarity, not contribute to chaos. The UDM acknowledges the ongoing investigation by Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS) and encourages full transparency in determining any possible administrative failings within the municipality. To the injured officer and their family, we extend our heartfelt prayers and unwavering support. Your service and sacrifice are valued. We trust that justice—both medical and moral—will be pursued with the urgency this matter demands. The UDM remains committed to upholding ethical governance, compassionate leadership, and unwavering respect for those who serve on the frontlines.
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02 May, 2025
Ongoing salary crisis in North West municipalities
Statement by Namhla Notshaya, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in North West The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in North West expresses its deep concern regarding the ongoing salary crisis affecting municipal workers across municipalities in the province. Recent reports indicate that many workers have faced significant delays in receiving their salaries. It has come to our attention that municipalities such as Ditsobotla, Mamusa, Maquassi Hills, and Lekwa-Teemane have consistently failed to meet their salary obligations, with some workers experiencing delays of more than two months. We stand in solidarity with the affected workers who have borne the consequences of these failures. While we recognise the importance of paying service providers, it is unacceptable to expect municipal workers to continue providing their labour without compensation. It is particularly troubling to hear accounts of workers being forced to borrow from loan sharks, leading them into a vicious cycle of debt. This crisis is a clear indication of poor financial management and governance at the municipal level, which must be addressed urgently. We urge the North West provincial government and municipal leadership to rectify this situation. Responsible governance should prioritise the welfare of municipal workers and ensure that their salaries are paid on time. The UDM in North West calls upon the provincial government to intervene in this crisis, ensuring that municipal workers receive their due salaries without further delay. The dignity and rights of workers must be upheld.
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02 May, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape calls for accountability, equity, and safety in response to Eastern Cape developments
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is deeply concerned by recent developments across the province, particularly in the education, economic, and energy sectors. While we welcome progressive initiatives that promise growth and transformation, we will not be silent when the vulnerable are forgotten or exploited. 1. The #JusticeForCwecwe campaign has laid bare the failure of our education system to protect our children. The UDM in the Eastern Cape demands that the provincial government not only close non-compliant schools but urgently implement structural safeguards, including a Provincial School Safety Oversight Task Team and school-based trauma units. Child safety is not negotiable. 2. We note the Premier Oscar Mabuyane’s international investment drive to boost the oceans economy. Mabuyane announced that the province would soon visit countries such as Italy and Greece, with the intention to attract investors who could partner with the province “to unlock jobs in our oceans economy”. Mabuyane stated that the oceans economy represents a new growth frontier that, when combined with meaningful transformation, can unlock new economic value chains and opportunities for the people of the Eastern Cape. He also announced that the national government has started the process of officially gazetting small harbours in Hamburg, within the Ngqushwa Municipality, and in Mbizana. While the potential is undeniable, the UDM insists on transparency in all agreements, enforceable 30% local ownership, and the publication of all memoranda of understanding (MOUs). Our coastal communities must not be spectators in an economy built on their heritage. 3. Regarding the R105 billion Hive Green Ammonia Project at Coega (the project by Hive Energy UK at the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) outside Gqeberha is the biggest investment of its kind in the world), the UDM in the Eastern Cape welcomes the shift toward sustainable energy. However, we demand full disclosure of the project’s local employment commitments, environmental compliance, and community development plans. The green economy must not become another exclusionary space. As the voice of reason and accountability, the UDM in the Eastern Cape will continue to fight for an inclusive Eastern Cape - one that places people before profits, safety before slogans, and transparency above all.
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30 Apr, 2025
Workers’ Day 2025: respect labour by delivering services
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament On this Workers’ Day, 1 May 2025, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) pays tribute to all South Africans whose labour builds and sustains our country; from farmworkers and factory hands to nurses, teachers, cleaners, drivers, and every hand that turns the wheels of our economy. While this day is traditionally associated with fair wages and workplace rights, we believe it is time to also speak plainly about another injustice: the disrespect of workers through poor service delivery. Working people pay their taxes. They make financial sacrifices. Yet far too many are forced to queue at broken clinics, drink unsafe water, live with load shedding, and send their children to overcrowded schools. When a government fails to deliver the basic services that citizens pay for, it insults the dignity of their labour. This is especially true at the local government level, where service delivery is closest to the people. Too many municipalities are riddled with financial mismanagement, cadre deployment, and basic incompetence. Potholes, uncollected waste, sewage spills and dry taps have become the norm for millions of workers, even as they continue to contribute to the local economy. Municipalities must stop being a source of frustration and start being centres of excellence and delivery. We must expand the meaning of workers’ rights to include the right to functioning public services, because decent work does not end at the payslip, it continues into a life lived with dignity, health, safety and opportunity. The UDM calls on government at all levels to honour workers not just with words, but with action: by fixing what is broken, uprooting corruption, and making every cent of public money count. Let us build a South Africa where workers are not just celebrated once a year, but respected every day through competent, clean governance. Happy Workers’ Day.
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29 Apr, 2025
UDM Nelson Mandela Bay condemns the brazen theft of municipal property in Deal Party
Statement by Luxolo Namette, UDM councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and Deputy Chairperson of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality condemns the shocking robbery that took place at a municipal depot in Deal Party, where armed criminals stole a truckload of tyres intended for public service vehicles. This audacious act of criminality, which occurred on Sunday night, is a clear sign of the growing lawlessness and the alarming deterioration of security measures at municipal facilities. It is unacceptable that public assets, which are meant to serve our communities, can be so easily stolen while the authorities fail to ensure their protection. The UDM wishes to commend the security guards who, despite being held at gunpoint, managed to promptly report the incident. However, this robbery raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the security arrangements at the depot. The municipality must explain what preventative measures were in place to protect these valuable assets, how armed criminals were able to access the premises so easily, and what immediate steps are being taken to recover the stolen goods and apprehend the perpetrators. We further demand that a full audit of municipal assets across all storage facilities be conducted to determine whether there have been other unreported incidents of theft. The public has a right to know the full extent of the losses and what actions are being taken to prevent any further incidents. The UDM calls on the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to urgently review and strengthen its security protocols across all its facilities. Stronger safeguards must be implemented without delay to protect public property. We also call on the police to prioritise this investigation and bring the culprits to justice swiftly. The theft of public resources cannot become the norm. Municipal leaders must act decisively to restore public confidence and to ensure that the facilities and resources meant for the service of the people are not turned into easy targets for criminal elements.
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26 Apr, 2025
Freedom Day 2025: much is yet to be accomplished
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament Tomorrow marks 31 years since South Africans, from all walks of life, stood together in long lines under the sun to cast their first free vote. On 27 April 1994, the shackles of apartheid were broken, and a new chapter of democratic hope was born. As the United Democratic Movement (UDM), we join our fellow compatriots in commemorating this sacred day, Freedom Day, and honouring the memory and sacrifice of those who made it possible. Freedom Day is not only about remembering our past, but also about confronting our present and shaping our future. We acknowledge the enormous strides our country has made. We are a democracy with one of the most progressive constitutions in the world. South Africans enjoy freedoms that were once denied to the majority: freedom of speech, freedom of association, and the right to vote. However, we must ask: are our people truly free? When learners in Diepsloot and Riverside are denied placement in schools, when some schools remain without scholar transport, and others still carry desks on their heads just to learn; our children are not free. When communities in Ntuzuma and Vhembe are denied access to clean water, a basic human right, they are not free. When gender-based violence continues unabated, when young women like Cwecwe are failed by the justice system, and when sexual misconduct persists in our institutions; women are not free. When the Compensation Fund fails injured workers for 12 years, and when Eastern Cape doctors remain unemployed while our healthcare system is in crisis; our workforce is not free. When the streets of our inner cities crumble with potholes and corruption scandals like the “Money Pool” in Mdantsane shake the public trust, then governance is not serving the people, and our democracy is at risk. True freedom must be measured by the dignity and well-being of our people. That means a functioning state that delivers on its promises, that protects the vulnerable, and that holds officials accountable when they fail. It means education that empowers, healthcare that heals, and jobs that restore dignity. As the UDM, we have consistently spoken out on the issues that threaten this vision of freedom. Whether it’s demanding audits and accountability for failed municipal projects, exposing failures in basic service delivery, or defending human rights in the face of crisis. We believe that our democracy must be defended not just by words, but by action. Freedom Day is also a time to celebrate our resilience. Despite the challenges, South Africans remain hopeful, innovative, and determined. We are a people who know how to stand together in times of difficulty - from township streets to rural villages to university halls. This spirit of unity is the heart of our democracy. Let us not allow our freedom to be hollowed out by neglect, corruption, or apathy. Let us demand more; not out of entitlement, but out of the belief that democracy must work for everyone. On this day, the UDM calls on all South Africans to recommit to building a country that reflects the dreams of 1994: a South Africa that is just, fair, and free. We urge government at all levels to act with integrity, transparency, and urgency. We urge civil society and citizens to remain active in shaping our future. This Freedom Day, let us honour the past by working for a better tomorrow. Let us make freedom real in every home, every school, every clinic, and every corner of our beloved nation. Happy Freedom Day, South Africa.
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26 Apr, 2025
UDESMO welcomes Jafta Commission at WSU but calls for broader student issues to be addressed
Statement by Manyano Njikela, UDESMO Branch Chairperson at Walter Sisulu University The United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO) in the Eastern Cape notes and welcomes the appointment of retired Justice Chris Jafta to lead the Commission of Inquiry into the serious events that have recently taken place at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) including the tragic shootings of students Sisonke Mbolekwa, Ntando Gqetywa, and Lizwa Ndzumo on 15 April 2025. We commend the University Council for invoking Section 7(2)(n) of the Institutional Statute of 2024, which allows the Council to establish a Commission of Inquiry into matters that pose significant risks to the institution. We trust the Commission will carry out its work independently and thoroughly. While we appreciate the urgent response by the University Council and welcome the scope of the Commission, especially its focus on issues of security, student safety, governance and allegations of violence, we are deeply concerned that the broader struggles of students are not being fully addressed. In particular, we call on the university and the Commission to investigate the root causes of student protests and unrest, including the painful issue of students from poor families being deregistered due to financial exclusion. This is a national crisis that continues to deny young South Africans their right to education and a better future. The UDESMO in the Eastern Cape therefore believes that the Jafta Commission must go beyond the incidents of violence and look at the full picture of student experiences at WSU, including academic exclusion, poor living conditions, lack of psychosocial support and the WSU’s response to student grievances. We hope the Jafta Commission will be a turning point, not just for accountability, but for lasting change that puts students first and ensures our institutions of higher learning are safe, inclusive and fair.
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25 Apr, 2025
More than 1 million applications for 44 000 jobs shows SA’s unemployment crisis still deep
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) notes with concern the overwhelming response to the fifth phase of the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI), where over 1.1 million applications were received for 44 000 school assistant positions, for now. This is a clear sign that South Africa’s youth unemployment rate remains unacceptably high. The latest round of the BEEI, which is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, received over a million applications within 24 hours of opening. W understand that by Tuesday evening, more than 223 000 individual young people had applied, with each position attracting an average of 25 applications. This is not just a number, it is a loud cry from our youth who are desperate for jobs and opportunities. The UDM believes that this overwhelming response reflects a deeper crisis where millions of young people are without work, and the economy is not creating nearly enough jobs to meet the demand. While we welcome the efforts of the Department of Basic Education to provide short-term employment, this programme alone is not enough. The fact that so many young people are scrambling for limited opportunities shows how critical it is for government to urgently prioritise large-scale job creation across all sectors, not just in education. We must grow the economy in a way that includes and uplifts the youth. More must be done to boost employment in sectors like manufacturing, renewable energy, construction, agriculture, ICT and tourism sectors that have the potential to absorb large numbers of job seekers. The UDM calls on government to speed up the implementation of long-term youth employment strategies, reduce red tape for small businesses, invest in skills development and make sure job creation efforts are inclusive, sustainable and decentralised. We also call for better coordination between national and provincial departments so that barriers like delayed training plans do not hinder implementation. It is unacceptable that only the Western Cape is ready with training while other provinces are still behind. This programme must be more than just a temporary fix; it must be a stepping stone to long-term employment and self-sufficiency for our youth.
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25 Apr, 2025
UDM KwaZulu-Natal raises concern over delayed payments to struggling NPOs
Statement by Remington Mazibuko, Provincial Chairperson of the UDM in KwaZulu-Natal The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in KwaZulu-Natal expresses its deep concern and disappointment over the ongoing delays in payments to non-profit organisations (NPOs) by the provincial Department of Social Development. These delays are not just administrative issues; they are putting the lives of vulnerable people at serious risk. The department recently informed NPOs about monthly empty promise that the first payments for the 2025 financial year are likely to be made at the end of April, even though organisations have been without funding since February. This delay has left many charities and welfare organisations without the funds they need to pay staff, buy food and provide essential services to children, elderly and those in need. People are suffering, children are going to bed hungry, old-age homes cannot afford items such as medicine or adult diapers. Organisations offering mental health support and care for the vulnerable are facing closure. Staff have gone unpaid; some have taken out loans just to survive and many NPOs are now being forced to cut salaries or even consider retrenchments. The UDM notes that it is not the first time these delays have happened. Since the department introduced the new tranche system in 2023, NPOs have repeatedly experienced late payments. This latest delay allegedly caused by challenges with the Basic Accounting System (BAS) and changes from National Treasury, is yet another example of poor planning and a lack of urgency from government. Many organisations have apparently tried to get answers last month but were only officially informed of the delay through a circular sent out last week. The UDM KwaZulu-Natal therefore condemns the lack of proper communication from the Social Development. We cannot expect organisations to serve communities while the provincial government delays their funding without any accountability. These are the same NPOs that the government relies on to deliver critical social services. The UDM calls on the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development and National Treasury to resolve these payment issues immediately. We further call for a full review of the tranche payment system and for urgent interventions to prevent these delays from happening again. This is a crisis, real lives are being affected. Government must act with the seriousness this situation deserves.
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24 Apr, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape shocked by sexual abuse cases in our schools; tougher laws and real accountability needed
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is shocked and angered by reports that nearly 30 educators in the Eastern Cape including five principals and two deputy principals, have been implicated in sexual offences involving learners in just the past year. This includes cases of sexual harassment, sexual assault and inappropriate relationships with pupils, many of whom are minors. This is a disgrace and a betrayal of trust by those meant to educate and protect our children. Schools should be safe places for learning and growth, not hunting grounds for sexual predators. The UDM in the Eastern Cape strongly believes that dismissal is not enough, there must be harsher punishments for perpetrators of such crimes. We are calling for urgent legislation that enforces criminal charges, longer prison sentences and permanent blacklisting of any educator or school staff member found guilty of sexual abuse or misconduct. Predators should never be allowed to work with children again, not in schools, not anywhere. It is unacceptable that some educators simply walk away with written warnings, short suspensions or salary deductions. Even more disturbing is that some cases are being withdrawn because victims, often traumatised children are too scared to testify, resulting in abusers escaping justice. We welcome the report by Education MEC Fundile Gade to the Bhisho Legislature, but we demand that this not be the end, the department must work hand in hand with SAPS, the Department of Justice and social workers to ensure every victim is supported and every perpetrator is brought to book. We also urge the South African Council for Educators (SACE) to act decisively in cancelling the registration of these individuals so they can never return to the profession. It is time that we say enough is enough. This is not just a school issue, it is a national crisis. A system that delays justice or allows abusers to slip through the cracks is complicit in harming children. The UDM in the Eastern Cape is committed to defending the rights and dignity of learners across our province. We will continue to advocate for a school environment where trust is protected, justice is swift, and survivors are never left to suffer in silence. This crisis demands bold and urgent action; not only from the department but from society as a whole. Our children deserve better, and we will not rest until the full weight of the law protects them.
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24 Apr, 2025
UDM welcomes announcement that VAT will not be increased: our stance has been vindicated
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) welcomes the announcement by the Minister of Finance that Value Added Tax (VAT) will not be increased on 1 May 2025. This decision comes as a direct response to serious concerns raised by the UDM and other stakeholders regarding the potential impact of a VAT hike on already struggling South African households. In a statement on 3 April 2025, the UDM clarified our position that we had voted for the 2025/2026 Budget Fiscal Framework with the strict proviso that “the Minister of Finance facilitates the receipt of substitute revenue proposals from the committee, together with corresponding expenditure savings, that will form the basis of an alternative revenue proposal instead of the proposed 0.5 percentage point increase in VAT for the 2025/26 financial year, effective 1 May 2025, in respect of which the committee has expressed serious concerns.” as articulated in Paragraph 6.29 of the “Report of the Standing Committee on Finance on the 2025 Fiscal Framework And Revenue Proposals, dated 01 April 2025”. The UDM furthermore took into consideration Paragraph 6.30 of the same document which reads: “…the committee recommends that the alternative revenue proposals and expenditure savings to balance the R28 billion shortfall which must effectively suspend the proposed increases be finalised and submitted by the committee to process within 30 days for consideration and adoption of this report by the house.” The UDM is pleased that the Finance Minister has heeded this call, thereby prioritising the economic wellbeing of ordinary South Africans over regressive tax measures. We will continue to champion equitable fiscal policy and work with all stakeholders to find creative, inclusive, and sustainable ways to raise revenue without deepening the burden on the most vulnerable members of society.
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21 Apr, 2025
UDM condolences on passing of Pope Francis
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) sends its heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Vatican and all Catholics around the world following the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. We honour his life of service, humility and compassion. Pope Francis was a leader who stood for peace, justice and care for the poor and marginalised. His commitment to interfaith dialogue and the right to freedom of religion or belief. His efforts to bring people together, regardless of their background, will be remembered for generations to come. He was against all wars across the globe. He was a champion of social justice and the social gospel for all peoples. The UDM acknowledges the deep spiritual guidance he provided to millions across the world. His legacy will continue to inspire people of all faiths and Christians around the world. The UDM extends its heartfelt condolences to the South African Catholic community and Catholics worldwide during this time of mourning. We honour his spiritual leadership and the profound inspiration he offered to billions of people worldwide. May his soul rest in eternal peace, may his legacy continue to guide us toward a more just and compassionate world.
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18 Apr, 2025
UDM Nelson Mandela Bay calls for accountability and transparency after R53 million flood repair tender irregularities
Statement by Luxolo Namette, UDM councillor in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and Deputy Chairperson of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality is gravely concerned by the explosive revelations regarding alleged misconduct by senior officials of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, as detailed in a memorandum by the municipality’s former Acting City Manager, Mr Sizwe Mvunelwa. The memorandum apparently outlines a troubling sequence of events suggesting that seven senior officials may have misled the Office of the City Manager and deliberately bypassed valid contracts in order to irregularly award new flood repair projects worth R53 million. This, despite the existence of properly procured service providers already under contract with the municipality. This conduct not only undermines the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), but it also exposes the Municipality to serious legal risks, potential withdrawal of disaster relief funding, and irreparable damage to the communities of KwaNobuhle, Kariega, and Kwazakhele, who continue to suffer the consequences of the devastating floods without timely intervention. The allegations include: • Possible collusion to subvert procurement procedures; • Recommending the appointment of companies without valid tax clearance certificates; • Issuing appointment letters to companies in violation of legal requirements; • Concealing critical information from incoming leadership to influence decision-making. Such actions, if proven, represent a gross dereliction of duty and a betrayal of public trust. The UDM fully supports the call for this matter to be referred to independent law enforcement agencies, such as the Hawks or the Special Investigating Unit, for a thorough and impartial investigation. We further call for: • The immediate suspension of all officials implicated in the memorandum, pending the outcome of investigations. • A full audit of the tender processes related to the R53 million flood relief funding. • The reversal of all irregularly issued contracts and reinstatement of the original contractors appointed under the valid triennial agreement. • Assurance from the municipality that service delivery in the affected communities will not be compromised due to internal administrative failures. The UDM maintains that the integrity of public institutions must be upheld at all costs. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and demand accountability for those who compromise the rule of law and the needs of the people for personal or political gain.
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18 Apr, 2025
Khayelitsha police loses alleged rapist: justice system fails GBV victims yet again
Statement by Bongani Maqungwana, United Democratic Movement Councillor in the City of Cape Town The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Cape Town is deeply disturbed by reports of gross negligence by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Khayelitsha on the Cape Flats. A young woman who bravely recently reported raped was failed at every turn by the system meant to protect her. After identifying her alleged attacker, who was apprehended by residents and handed over to police officers from Khayelitsha Police Station, the officers took the man to the hospital without arresting him, nor informing the investigating officer, nor collecting any evidence. Shockingly, the suspect has since returned to the community and is reportedly intimidating both the survivor and other residents; all while remaining free. This represents a profound miscarriage of justice and a betrayal of the survivor’s courage. This incident reflects a shocking disregard for due process and a broader failure by SAPS to take gender-based violence seriously. Despite the victim opening a case, providing a statement, and undergoing a medical examination, the police failed to act when given a clear opportunity to investigate and detain a suspect. No DNA was collected, no questioning took place, and no connection to the existing rape case was made. This is not just negligence; it is a collapse of basic policing duties. The UDM in Cape City of Cape Town demands an immediate, independent investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate into the actions of the officers involved, as well as their suspension pending the outcome. We also call for the arrest and formal charging of the alleged perpetrator, protection for the victim and her family. The community of Khayelitsha deserves justice, not excuses. The UDM in Cape City of Cape Town stands in solidarity with the survivor and the people of Khayelitsha. We will continue to monitor this case and advocate for stronger accountability in how SAPS handles cases of rape and gender-based violence. We cannot allow incompetence and indifference to endanger our communities any longer.
Admin
17 Apr, 2025
US pastor saved by SAPS; now save our children
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) notes the successful rescue of the American pastor who was kidnapped in Gqeberha. We commend the swift and coordinated response by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) multidisciplinary units, which led to the neutralisation of the suspects and the safe recovery of the victim. This operation demonstrates what can be achieved when our law enforcement agencies act decisively and collaboratively. Too often, kidnappings in South Africa are driven by ransom demands a terrifying reality for victims and their families. The pastor’s case, although foreign in nationality, highlights a problem that affects our own people daily. We must now turn the same urgency and coordination toward the heartbreaking epidemic of missing South Africans, particularly children. According to recent reports, over 600 children have been reported missing in 2024 alone, with dozens still unaccounted for. Among these tragic cases is that of Joshlin Smith, whose disappearance from Saldanha Bay shocked the nation and remains unresolved. The lack of closure in such cases is devastating to families and communities alike. We urge SAPS to apply the same multidisciplinary expertise and urgency shown in the Gqeberha rescue to the ongoing crisis of missing persons across South Africa. Every missing child, woman, or man deserves the same energy, resources, and attention. It is time that we stop treating these disappearances as isolated incidents and recognise them as a national emergency that demands immediate and consistent action. The UDEMWO stands in solidarity with the families of the missing. We will continue to push for accountability, effective investigations, and real outcomes. We call on government to prioritise the safety of our people; all of them. We furthermore urge the families and caregivers of missing children to report such incidents to the SAPS immediately; do not delay, even by a few hours. The 24-hour waiting period is a myth. Time is of the essence when a child goes missing, and swift reporting significantly increases the chances of a safe recovery.
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17 Apr, 2025
GDE’s continued failure to place 50 Diepsloot and Riverside learners in schools
Statement by Andile Jabavu, Provincial Secretary of the United Democratic Movement in Gauteng The United Democratic Movement (UDM) expresses concern and frustration over the continued failure by the Gauteng Department of Education to place nearly 50 learners from Diepsloot and Riverside into schools, despite the second term of the academic year already being underway. It is unacceptable that four months into the school year, children are still sitting at home while their right to basic education as enshrined in Section 29 of the Constitution is being denied. According to community reports and confirmation by activist Reginald Lebotse, dozens of learners remain unplaced due to delays in the completion of the Tanganani Primary School a project that was promised to be operational by the end of March 2025. Instead, families continue to face broken promises and vague reassurances. We further note the South African Human Rights Commission’s (SAHRC) intention to scrutinise the province’s admissions system, especially in areas affected by migration and rapid urban growth. The UDM supports this investigation and urges the SAHRC to prioritise Diepsloot and similar communities in their review. We call on the Gauteng Department of Education to urgently place all unplaced learners in temporary, safe and properly resourced classrooms while awaiting permanent school infrastructure. Provide clear timelines and transparent reporting on the completion of Tanganani Primary School and any other affected infrastructure projects.
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16 Apr, 2025
A giant has fallen: UDM City of Johannesburg caucus pays tribute to the late Don Mlangeni Nawa
Statement by Yongama Zigebe, Councillor in the City of Johannesburg for the United Democratic Movement and Chairperson of the S79 Committee on Gender, Youth and People with Disabilities The United Democratic Movement (UDM) Caucus in the City of Johannesburg is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary South African actor, Mr Don Mlangeni Nawa, at the age of 65. His death marks the end of an era in the arts, one that gave dignity to black voices and brought the real stories of township life to our screens. Mr Nawa was not just an entertainer, he was a storyteller, a cultural activist and a mirror to South African society. His unforgettable performances from Bra Zeb in Isidingo, to roles in 'Sgudi 'Snaysi, Hlala Kwabafileyo, The Throne, The Estate and Shaka iLembe, captured the daily struggles, dreams and strength of ordinary people across this country. In a nation where the arts have historically been a battleground for identity, justice, and resistance, Mlangeni stood as a cultural freedom fighter. He gave voice to people emerging from oppression, navigating the new terrain of democracy and striving for self-definition. His performances resonated across generations, transcending screens and theatres to become a part of our national consciousness. As the UDM Caucus in the City of Johannesburg, a city that serves as the heartbeat of our country’s artistic and cultural life, we salute this son of the soil. His contribution to civic memory and cultural development cannot be overstated. In every township street and city apartment where his voice once echoed, there now lingers the silence of loss. But there also remains the echo of his truth — unfiltered, uncompromising, and unforgettable. We call on the City of Johannesburg to consider a fitting tribute to Mr Nawa. Whether it be through renaming a public theatre, launching a scholarship fund for young actors or establishing a cultural project in his honour, we believe his legacy must be preserved for future generations. To the family, friends and colleagues of Mr Don Mlangeni Nawa, we send our deepest condolences. South Africa mourns with you. He was not only loved, but he was also significant. A true national treasure. May his journey to the spirit world be in peace, and may his name be remembered among the greats who shaped our culture and national identity.
