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15 Apr, 2025
Congratulations: Inkosi Yomoya Dr Uzwi Lezwe Radebe on being awarded the 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Inkosi Yomoya Dr Uzwi Lezwe Radebe on receiving the esteemed 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize, a global recognition reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to peace, human development, and moral leadership. This honour is not only well-deserved but deeply symbolic, reflecting the indelible mark Inkosi Yomoya Dr Uzwi Lezwe Radebe continues to make in the spiritual and moral reawakening of our people. His leadership through The Revelation Spiritual Home has reignited a spirit of African pride, unity, and purpose, restoring a sense of identity and healing that transcends generations and geographies. The UDM recognises Inkosi Yomoya Dr Uzwi Lezwe Radebe as a custodian of African wisdom, a moral voice in our times, and a peacemaker whose teachings continue to shape a more conscious and harmonious world. His message resonates with the principles of justice, self-determination, and restoration values we, as a movement, hold dear. As he takes his rightful place among global champions of peace, we salute his unwavering commitment to the upliftment of humanity through African spirituality and moral regeneration. May this prestigious accolade further amplify his mission and serve as a beacon of hope to all who strive for a better, united and peaceful world. Camagu. Makwande. Mathemba ayaphila.
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10 Apr, 2025
Mixed Eastern Cape audit results show a government still failing the people
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape notes the latest audit outcomes for the Eastern Cape government presented by the Auditor-General’s Office with serious concern. While the province has shown some progress in financial reporting, the core issues of poor planning, weak governance and lack of service delivery remain deeply troubling. According to the Auditor-General’s update to the National Council of Province's Select Committee on Finance, the number of clean audits in the Eastern Cape improved from five in 2019/20 to twelve in 2022/23. However, this has now dropped to nine clean audits in 2023/24, a clear sign of regression. It is unacceptable that key departments like Health and Education continue to receive qualified audits year after year. These departments are meant to deliver the most basic and important services to our people. The Education Department still battles to account for school assets, while the Health Department cannot properly report on money it may owe. How can we trust such departments to serve our communities? Even the Office of the Premier and the Eastern Cape Legislature have backslid in their audit outcomes. This shows poor leadership and weak accountability at the highest levels of provincial government. Many departments submitted performance reports full of errors and could not back up their so-called achievements with proper data. The UDM is also alarmed by the shocking levels of wasteful and irregular spending. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, the province recorded: • R467 million in unauthorised expenditure • R2.7 billion in irregular expenditure • R148 million in fruitless and wasteful spending. These figures represent a total disregard for public funds at a time when our people are suffering without proper healthcare, education, roads and jobs. The Transport Department’s scholar transport system which could help so many rural learners, remains under-utilised. Projects are delayed, money is paid for work not done and finished projects are often left unused. These are not just audit problems; they are service delivery failures. Our children can’t read because early childhood development targets are not met. Rural development remains just a slogan because departments fail to measure progress or complete evaluations. The UDM demands: • Full accountability for departments and individuals responsible for poor performance and misuse of funds • A clear plan to fix the failures in the Health and Education Departments. • Immediate action from the Premier to strengthen governance and service delivery across all departments. • Transparency in dealing with the R197 million in financial losses due to material irregularities. The Eastern Cape people deserve better than empty reports and broken promises. The UDM in the Eastern Cape will continue to be a strong voice for the communities being failed by this government.
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10 Apr, 2025
City of Cape Town must urgently deliver on 12-year-old housing promise to Masonwabe Hostel families
Statement by Bongani Maqungwana, Councillor in the City of Cape Town The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the City of Cape Town is deeply disappointed by the City’s failure to honour its promise to the families living at the Masonwabe Temporary Relocation Area in Gugulethu. It has been 12 long years since these families were moved from the old Masonwabe Hostel in 2013. At the time, they were told the relocation was only temporary while the City fixed the unsafe and crumbling hostel. But the hostel was demolished, the land stands empty while the City says there are no immediate plans to move these families into proper permanent housing. This is nothing short of abandonment, how can a temporary solution last for 12 years with no end in sight? These families are living in cold, unsafe structures, children are growing up in tin shacks surrounded by crime, mice and followed by neglect. Masonwabe now has over 130 structures, far more than the original 80 families who were moved in. Families have grown but their homes have not. Many are forced to extend their small units with scrap materials just to survive. It is unacceptable that the City of Cape Town has even failed to communicate clearly with the affected families, and no proper maintenance is being done on those dilapidated temporary structures despite people still living in them. The City refers to these homes as part of “incremental development,” yet offers no real plan or timeline for permanent housing. These families were promised back in 2013 that they would return to a redeveloped Masonwabe site. Today, that promise has been forgotten as the land lies empty while hundreds of people suffer in substandard conditions nearby. The UDM in the City of Cape Town, demands the City: • Immediately engages with the Masonwabe community to provide a clear update. • Commits to a fixed timeline for the development of permanent housing on the original site • Ensures the safety and maintenance of the current structures while people are still living there. Stop treating vulnerable communities like they don’t matter. Gugulethu people deserves dignity not, delays nor empty promises, promises must be delivered.
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03 Apr, 2025
UDM sets the record straight on its position on 2025/2026 Budget Fiscal Framework
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) firmly refutes the misconception being propagated in the media and on social media that it voted in favour of the 0.5-percentage-point VAT hike. This claim is entirely false and misrepresents the Party’s stance on the matter. The UDM 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 advocates for a pragmatic approach to South Africa’s economy, emphasising the urgent need to balance the books - something that is not happening at present. The government cannot afford to suspend critical social welfare programmes like the Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, yet it also cannot afford them without securing additional funding. While tax hikes are vastly unpopular, the reality is that the R28 billion shortfall must be addressed to keep essential programmes running.
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03 Apr, 2025
Far-reaching consequences of bullying: suicide of Joseph Maimela
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) expresses its sympathies to the family of Joseph Maimela, a Grade 12 student from Kgabo Secondary School in Mokgokong Village, Limpopo, who tragically took his own life in October last year. His death has highlighted serious concerns regarding the role of educators, particularly allegations that teachers at the school may have contributed to his distress. Reports suggest that teachers publicly shared Joseph's progress report card with the entire school, an action that, if confirmed, would be a significant violation of professional conduct and a breach of the student’s dignity and emotional well-being. The Maimela family's frustration with the lack of transparency and delayed action from the Limpopo Department of Education is both understandable and justified. Despite claims from the department that an investigation has been concluded, the family has yet to receive any meaningful updates or information on the status of the case. Six months have passed since Joseph’s death, and the family remains in the dark, without any clarity or assurances that accountability will be pursued. This delay in action has left the family feeling unsupported and neglected by the authorities responsible for overseeing the investigation. In response, the UDM calls for the Limpopo Department of Education to take immediate and decisive action. We call on the Department to speed up the disciplinary process and ensure that those responsible for the alleged bullying are held accountable. The failure to act swiftly would be a disservice to the Maimela family and to all students who deserve to learn in an environment free from fear and harm. Furthermore, the UDM calls for a comprehensive review of how the Department has handled this case, emphasising the need for transparency and better communication with families involved in serious allegations. The broader issue of bullying within schools also requires urgent attention. While young Joseph’s tragic case is particularly devastating, bullying is a pervasive problem that affects many students nationwide. Bullying, whether physical, emotional, or psychological, can have severe consequences on a student’s mental health and well-being. The UDM believes that every student should have the right to a safe and supportive learning environment. Therefore, both educators and policymakers must work together to create schools where students feel valued and protected from harm. Finally, the UDM urges the Limpopo Department of Education, and all provincial education departments, to implement comprehensive anti-bullying strategies in schools. These strategies should include regular teacher training on recognising and addressing bullying, as well as systems that allow students to report bullying confidentially. Schools should also be equipped with mental health resources, including counsellors to support students facing emotional or psychological challenges. The recent data from the Department of Health, revealing that 7,426 children under 18 were treated for suicide attempts in 2023, underscores the critical need for a national focus on mental health in schools, with an emphasis on early intervention and proactive prevention to safeguard the well-being of all students.
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03 Apr, 2025
UDM in Gauteng welcomes Africa’s largest automotive assembly precinct in Rosslyn
Statement by Andile Jabavu, Provincial Secretary of the United Democratic Movement in Gauteng The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in Gauteng welcomes the announcement of what is being called Africa’s largest automotive assembly precinct to be developed in Rosslyn in the City of Tshwane. This multi-billion-rand project is apparently expected to create 150,000 jobs, bringing much-needed employment opportunities to our people in the capital city. For years, the UDM has been advocating for job creation as a key pillar of economic development. This project is a step in the right direction, demonstrating the impact of strategic investments in industry and infrastructure. The Rosslyn precinct, in the City of Tshwane, already hosts major automotive manufacturers including BMW, Nissan, Tata and Iveco, this expansion will further cement Gauteng and South Africa’s position as a leader in automotive production on the continent. The 7,157-hectare precinct will be developed over 40 to 50 years, requiring collaboration between the public and private sectors. This initiative, spearheaded by the Automotive Industry Development Centre in partnership with the City of Tshwane and the Gauteng Provincial Government, which will hopefully attract both local and foreign investment to boost economic growth and industrial development. The aforementioned all being economic strategies which the UDM has long been advocating for. The UDM acknowledges unemployment as a major challenge in South Africa. Despite Tshwane contributing 25% to Gauteng’s R133 billion economy, high unemployment persists. We welcome initiatives that drive job creation and economic growth.. We also encourage all stakeholders, including local communities, businesses and labour representatives, to actively participate in the public consultation process to ensure that this project benefits all South Africans equitably. The UDM will continue to push for policies and projects that create sustainable employment and uplift our economy. We stand in full support of initiatives like the Rosslyn Automotive Industrial Park, which provide opportunities for growth and a better future for our people.
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03 Apr, 2025
Omotoso case: prosecution failed the victims
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General The United Democratic Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) expresses deep concern over the handling of the case against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho. After nearly eight years of legal proceedings, the High Court in Gqeberha has acquitted all three accused due to shortcomings in the prosecution's case. This outcome raises serious questions about the efficiency of our justice system and the rights of victims seeking justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. For almost a decade, the complainants in this case have been waiting for a fair and decisive resolution. The prolonged delays, inadequate cross-examination and mishandling of evidence have ultimately resulted in a failure to secure a conviction. This is a devastating setback not only for the complainants but for all South Africans who rely on the courts to uphold justice and protect victims of crime. The court acknowledged that while there were inconsistencies in the complainants' testimonies, the evidence presented by the defence was not properly tested due to prosecution failures. This highlights the urgent need for reforms in how complex criminal cases, especially those involving gender-based violence (GBV) and human trafficking, are handled. UDEMWO calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to urgently review this case and ensure that such procedural failures do not happen again. Victims of serious crimes must not be subjected to drawn-out trials that end in technical acquittals due to prosecutorial weaknesses. We also urge government and legal authorities to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial processes to prevent similar injustices in future. South Africa cannot afford a justice system that fails victims due to inefficiency and unnecessary delays and criminals being set free to perpetrate further crimes against hapless victims; especially GBV victims. UDEMWO will continue to advocate for a legal system that delivers timely and effective justice for all.
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01 Apr, 2025
UDM disappointed as Education Department fails to meet pit toilet eradication deadline
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) expresses deep disappointment over the Department of Basic Education's failure to meet its deadline for eradicating pit latrines in schools. This failure is not just a missed deadline, but an extension of a health hazard to our children. The deadline, set for 31 March 2025, has once again come and gone, leaving thousands of learners exposed to unsafe and undignified conditions. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube recently claimed that 93% of identified pit latrines have been eradicated. However, civil society organisations, including SECTION27, have raised serious concerns that the 2018 audit used to track progress is outdated, and many schools still operating with pit toilets have been overlooked. This failure is not just a missed deadline, it is an extension of a public health crisis and a health hazard to the lives of our children. The tragic case of a five-year-old learner who drowned in a pit latrine in 2014 in the Eastern Cape, should have been a wake-up call, instead, after years of court battles and repeated extensions, the government continues to move at an unacceptably slow pace. Reports from civil society indicate that many schools, particularly in rural provinces like Limpopo and the Eastern Cape, remain without proper sanitation. Some schools rely on unsafe and unhygienic mobile toilets, which are not a viable solution. In some cases, there are not enough toilets to accommodate all learners, and they are not properly maintained. According to media reports, almost 11,000 schools across the country still lack a single flushing toilet, and hundreds of schools have no running water. Learners are forced to use unsafe facilities creating serious hygiene and health risks. The government's continued failure to address this crisis with urgency is unacceptable. The UDM demands the following immediate actions: • A new, transparent national audit of all schools still relying on pit latrines, with the results made publicly available. • A clear, time-bound implementation plan for eradicating all remaining pit latrines, with no further extensions. • An accountability mechanism to track progress and ensure that responsible officials are held accountable for ongoing failures. • Increased collaboration between government, civil society and the private sector to accelerate sanitation projects. South Africa cannot afford another empty promise. The dignity and safety of our children must come first. The UDM will continue to monitor this issue closely and hold the government accountable for ensuring that no learner is forced to endure these inhumane conditions any longer.
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01 Apr, 2025
UDM victory: Buffalo City exposed over
Statement by Anele Skoti, United Democratic Movement Councillor and Whip in Buffalo City Metropolitan Council The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) welcomes the long-overdue accountability being demanded from BCMM bosses over the shocking mismanagement of public funds in the Mdantsane Swimming Pool project, which we have dubbed the "money pool". For years, the UDM has been at the forefront of exposing this scandal. Our party has conducted multiple site visits, raised concerns over the wasteful expenditure and consistently pushed for transparency. The recent grilling of BCMM officials by Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) confirms what we have been saying all along that millions of Rands have been looted while the community remains without a functioning swimming pool. The forensic report, which BCMM leaders attempted to suppress, reveals shocking details: • Over R56.9 million spent on the project between 2012 and 2024 with little progress. • An additional R14.5 million proposed for rehabilitation and completion, bringing the total to over R71 million. • More than 60 companies, some linked to BCMM officials, received payments. • R13.7 million paid to 46 service providers who were not involved in the project. Despite this damning evidence, BCMM leaders, including Mayor Princess Faku, have failed to take responsibility. The decision to withhold the forensic report under the pretext of an ongoing Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) investigation was a blatant attempt to protect those implicated in corruption. The UDM applauds Scopa’s demand that the report be tabled urgently and handed over to both the Hawks and the Special Investigating Unit. The UDM will not rest until those responsible for this financial disaster are held accountable. We demand immediate action against corrupt officials, full disclosure of the forensic report to the public, and an end to the culture of looting that has crippled service delivery in BCMM. Mdantsane. Buffalo City residents deserve better.
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29 Mar, 2025
UDM Eastern Cape calls for justice for Cwecwe and accountability in schools
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is outraged by the tragic case of Cwecwe, a seven-year-old child from Matatiele, who was allegedly raped while under the care of Bergview College. It is deeply concerning that, despite medical confirmation of the assault, no arrests have been made. We extend our full support to Cwecwe and her family during this traumatic time. We commend the Department of Education for its decision to deregister Bergview College, but this is only the first step. The failure to protect a child within an educational institution reflects a deeper crisis in our schools. We demand urgent action from the South African Police Service (SAPS) to expedite the investigation and ensure that justice is served. Law enforcement agencies cannot continue to fail victims, especially vulnerable children. We also call on Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube to strengthen safety measures in schools to prevent such incidents from ever happening again. Furthermore, the UDM in the Eastern Cape urges government to: 1. Fast-track the arrest and prosecute those responsible for this heinous crime. 2. Review safety policies in schools to ensure that all children are protected while in the care of educational institutions. 3. Provide psychological and social support to Cwecwe and her family to help them recover from this traumatic ordeal. We will not stand by while the most vulnerable in our society suffer due to negligence and lack of accountability. The UDM will closely monitor this case and push for justice to prevail. #JusticeForCwecwe
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21 Mar, 2025
Congratulations to Namibian's first female President on historic victory
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) extend its congratulations to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her historic election as the first female President of Namibia. This is a momentous occasion not only for Namibia but for the entire African continent, as it marks a significant step forward in the advancement of women in leadership. Her election is a testament to the strength of democracy in Namibia and the growing recognition of the vital role women play in shaping the future of our nations. We commend the people of Namibia for their commitment to progress, equality and good governance. As she takes on this important responsibility, we wish President Nandi-Ndaitwah strength, wisdom and success in leading Namibia towards greater economic growth, social justice and unity. We look forward to fostering strong relations between Namibia and South Africa as we work together for the development of our region. May her leadership inspire many more women across Africa to rise, lead and break barriers for generations to come.
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21 Mar, 2025
Human Rights Day 2025
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament As South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day, on 21 March 2025, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. This day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice, equality, and dignity in our country. The UDM has always stood for a South Africa where human rights are not just words on paper, but a lived reality for all. We remain steadfast in ensuring that every South African enjoys the rights to freedom, dignity, safety, and equal opportunities. The UDM will continue to safeguard democracy and strengthen institutions that protect human rights with our continued fight against corruption, abuse of power, and any attempts to undermine the rule of law. We will continue to fight against poverty, inequality, and unemployment by pushing for policies that promote economic inclusion, land reform, and fair wages. In a country combatting high levels of crime, we will continue our advocacy for stronger action against gender-based violence, crime, and human trafficking and a reform in the justice system as unpacked in our last election manifesto. Access to healthcare, education, water, and housing is a fundamental human right and the UDM remains committed to holding the government accountable for better service delivery. As we mark Human Rights Day, let us honour the past by working towards a better future, i.e. a South Africa where freedom, fairness, and dignity are the cornerstones of our democracy. The UDM will continue to fight for the rights of all South Africans, ensuring that our hard-won democracy benefits every citizen, not just a privileged few.
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19 Mar, 2025
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: World Recycling Day
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 joins the world in marking World Recycling Day - a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the environment, save resources and work towards a sustainable future. Recycling is not just about managing waste. It is about taking care of what has been entrusted to us. Many cultural and spiritual traditions teach us that the land is a precious gift. Keeping our environment clean is not only about appearance. It is about respecting nature, protecting life, and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthy and liveable world. Recycling has benefits beyond just keeping our surroundings clean. It reduces landfill waste, lowers carbon emissions, saves energy and creates jobs in the green economy. A cleaner city means healthier communities, a stronger economy and a better quality of life for everyone. We encourage all residents of Johannesburg to take responsibility for their surroundings by keeping them clean and embracing recycling. Simple actions like separating waste, reusing materials as well as supporting recycling efforts can make a big difference. As a party committed to sustainable governance, the UDM in Johannesburg will continue to push for policies that improve waste management, promote environmental education and support community-led cleanup projects. Together, we can build a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous city. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. The future of our city depends on how we care for our environment today.
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18 Mar, 2025
Nesethu Rawuzela: UDM Eastern Cape condemns GBV and calls for justice for victims
Statement by Bulelani Bobotyane, Provincial Secretary of the UDM in the Eastern Cape The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in the Eastern Cape is deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic murder of Nesethu Rawuzela, a young nurse from Qumbu, Eastern Cape, who was allegedly assaulted by her boyfriend, leading to her untimely death. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Rawuzela family, her colleagues, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. No family should have to endure such pain and loss. Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to plague our society, with women and children bearing the brunt of these heinous crimes. The recent incidents in the OR Tambo district, including the case of a 32-year-old man accused of murdering his 24-year-old wife in Nkonkweni, Qumbu, highlight the urgent need for greater interventions to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the fight against GBV and we call upon law enforcement agencies and the justice system to ensure that perpetrators face the full might of the law. There must be no room for impunity. Justice must be swift, decisive, and uncompromising in dealing with those who violate the rights and dignity of others. The UDM in the Eastern Cape also urge government institutions, civil society, and communities to work together in strengthening GBV awareness, support systems for survivors, and proactive interventions that will curb these atrocities before they occur. Women must feel safe in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces without fear of being attacked by those who claim to love them. The UDM in the Eastern Cape, together with its youth and women’s structures, the United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO) and the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO), will not remain silent while women continue to suffer. We will be at the forefront of advocating for policies and initiatives that address the root causes of GBV while supporting survivors and their families. To show solidarity with the family of the deceased, UDM public representatives, along with members of UDESMO and UDEMWO, will be present at the Tsolo Magistrate’s Court tomorrow to support the Nesethu Rawuzela’s loved ones and demand justice. The UDM stands firm in ensuring that this case is not just another statistic but a turning point in the fight against gender-based violence. To the Rawuzela family and all those who have lost loved ones to GBV, we stand with you in your pain. The UDM will not rest until real change is achieved, and justice prevails.
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12 Mar, 2025
Mismanagement of City Power: R4.9 billion in irregular expenditure
Statement by Andile Jabavu, Gauteng Provincial Secretary of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) in Gauteng is deeply concerned about the Auditor-General’s (AG) shocking findings on the City of Johannesburg's City Power, revealing a staggering loss of R2.8 billion in the 12 months ending 30 June 2024. Even more alarming, the entity incurred irregular expenditure exceeding R4.9 billion, raising serious questions about financial mismanagement, corruption and governance failures. City Power, a vital municipal entity responsible for electricity supply in Johannesburg, is teetering on the brink of collapse. The AG has warned of “material uncertainty” regarding its ability to continue operating, with its liabilities exceeding assets by R1.1 billion. These revelations come as residents endure frequent and prolonged power outages, exacerbating Johannesburg’s ongoing electricity crisis. Of particular concern is the R12 million advance payment allegedly made to a politically connected businessman, for a public lighting project, months before any work was done. Reports shows that internal City Power officials raised red flags, warning that this payment violated Treasury regulations under the Municipal Finance Management Act and the Public Finance Management Act. However, these concerns were allegedly overridden by a senior official who instructed subordinates to process the payment despite clear irregularities. Even more alarming, the businessman in question is allegedly linked to a known African National Congress benefactor, raising serious concerns about political interference. Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable, yet City Power’s response to these grave allegations have been vague, with promises of investigations that have so far produced no tangible results. Meanwhile, Johannesburg residents continue to endure worsening infrastructure and daily power failures. The UDM in Gauteng will not stand by while public funds are mismanaged at the expense of service delivery. We call on the City of Johannesburg and law enforcement authorities to act decisively in rooting out corruption and ensuring that those responsible for City Power’s financial collapse are held to account.
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11 Mar, 2025
UDM condolences to families of R21 bus crash victims and urges road safety compliance
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of twelve lives in a devastating bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng today. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. We also extend our thoughts and prayers to those who have been injured and wish them a full and speedy recovery. This heartbreaking incident follows two other recent bus crashes in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, bringing the total number of fatalities to nineteen in just two weeks. These tragedies highlight the urgent need for stricter road safety measures and responsible driving. We urge all road users, especially public transport operators, to always prioritise safety by: 1. Obeying all rules of the road i.e. the speed limit, road signs and safe following distances must always be observed. 2. Ensuring roadworthiness of vehicles by thoroughly checking them before every trip to prevent mechanical failures, especially tires and brakes. 3. Resting when tired as fatigue is a major cause of accidents, drivers must take regular breaks to ensure they are alert and able to react to road conditions. Losing lives on our roads is unacceptable. The UDM calls on the authorities to intensify road safety campaigns, enforce stricter vehicle inspections and ensure that those responsible for public transport uphold the highest safety standards. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find strength during this painful time.
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28 Feb, 2025
UDM disturbed by ill-considered McDonald's foldable desks for Grade 1 learners
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the ill-conceived donation of foldable school desks, handed over by the Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, in partnership with McDonald's and MiDesk Global. These desks were given to St. Paul's Primary School in Cape Town's Bo Kaap, in the Western Cape. It is unacceptable that, in 2025, our children are being used as walking advertisements for corporate branding instead of being provided with fully equipped classrooms that uphold their dignity. South African parents and educators have justifiably expressed their outrage over this situation. Rather than ensuring every child has a proper desk in the classroom, the department is celebrating a donation that shifts the responsibility from the government onto the backs of young children - literally! These desks are highly impractical, especially given the long distances and challenging roads many children must traverse to get to school. Adding this extra burden is absurd. To make matters worse, it is highly likely that the average child carrying the McDonald's foldable desk won’t even be able to afford a McDonald's Kiddies Meal in the first place! This situation is a national embarrassment for which Minister Gwarube must take full responsibility. We call on the Government of National Unity to ensure that every child, especially the poorest of the poor, has a desk to sit at when they are at school. Let us hope this is a one-time failed experiment that is not repeated elsewhere in the country.
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28 Feb, 2025
UDM calls for urgent action against school bullying after more than 500 incidents occurred
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the alarming number of bullying cases reported in South African schools since the start of the 2025 academic year. A staggering 548 incident have been recorded, with Limpopo leading at 305 cases, followed by North West (78), Eastern Cape (68), and other provinces reporting significant numbers. The recent tragic deaths of learners, as well as shocking cases of physical and emotional abuse in schools, highlight the urgent need for decisive action. No child should fear going to school and no family should have to mourn a child due to bullying. The UDM calls on: 1. School authorities to strictly enforce disciplinary measures against bullies, including suspensions, expulsions and criminal charges where necessary. 2. Government to immediately launch a nationwide anti-bullying campaign, involving teachers, parents, learners and law enforcement to educate and prevent further incidents. 3. Schools and school governing bodies to have clear anti-bullying policies that are strictly implemented and monitored. An updated “Addressing Bullying in Schools” manual must be expedited and enforced by mid-2025. 4. Government to ensure that trauma counselling and legal support are available for victims of bullying and their families. 5. School principals, governing bodies and education departments must be held accountable for failing to act on bullying cases. The UDM further calls on the Department of Basic Education, SAPS and the Department of Social Development to intensify their inter-departmental efforts to prevent school violence. Parents, communities and school staff must work together to ensure that schools are safe learning environments for all children. Bullying is not just “child’s play”, it has deadly consequences. The UDM demands urgent action before more lives are lost.
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27 Feb, 2025
UDM rejects commission of inquiry into initiation deaths as a wasteful exercise
Statement by Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, UDM Deputy President and Leader in Parliament The United Democratic Movement (UDM) strongly rejects the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’ (CoGTA) decision to establish yet another commission of inquiry into the tragic deaths of initiates in the Eastern Cape. This is nothing more than a wasteful exercise that will do nothing to address the ongoing crisis. We have seen this pattern before; the government launches a commission, spends millions of rands, compiles a report, and then shelves it. Meanwhile, families continue to bury their children, and the root causes of the problem remain unaddressed. If the government were truly serious about resolving this issue, it would prioritise the solutions that traditional leaders have long proposed. The House of Traditional Leaders has consistently called for stricter enforcement against illegal initiation schools, proper training and regulation of traditional surgeons, and better coordination between cultural structures, communities, and law enforcement agencies. These are practical, implementable measures, yet CoGTA chooses to waste time and money on another commission that will bring no new solutions. Even more concerning is the complete lack of consultation on this matter. Some leaders of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA) were not even informed of this decision and only learned about it through the media. This raises serious questions about the government’s true intentions. If this commission is genuinely meant to protect initiates, then why are those responsible for overseeing the tradition being sidelined? This is unacceptable and further proof that the commission is nothing more than a political smokescreen, an illusion of action with no real impact. For years, traditional leaders, as custodians of this sacred practice, have pleaded for resources to properly implement their strategies, yet they have struggled to secure government support. They have called for funding and resources to ensure that initiation schools are safe, properly regulated, and culturally authentic. Yet, instead of investing in these well-funded solutions, the government suddenly finds money for an inquiry, a process that could cost millions while delivering little to no tangible change. This is yet another example of misplaced priorities: money wasted on endless discussions instead of real, life-saving action. Should CoGTA insist on proceeding with this commission, it must be led by Xhosa men who have undergone the initiation process themselves. Anything less would be a complete insult to this deeply significant rite of passage. Initiation is not a bureaucratic procedure, it is a sacred tradition that requires respect, cultural understanding, and firsthand experience. No one who has not walked this path can claim to regulate or intervene in a process they do not fully grasp. The UDM demands that CoGTA abandon this unnecessary commission and instead redirect its resources towards real, practical interventions, such as regulating traditional surgeons and caregivers, enforcing strict oversight of initiation schools, and strengthening collaboration between cultural structures, communities, and law enforcement. Furthermore, there must be aggressive law enforcement operations targeting illegal initiation schools and unqualified surgeons, particularly in hotspot areas such as the OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo regions of the Eastern Cape. The time for talking is over, now is the time for action. Mabaye bephila, babuye bephila abantwana!
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27 Feb, 2025
UDM raises concerns over education crisis: Our children deserve better
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is alarmed by the findings of the latest 2030 Reading Panel report, which confirms the ongoing crisis in South Africa’s education system. This report paints a bleak picture of literacy and mathematics skills among both pupils and educators, further entrenching inequality and threatening the future of our children. According to the Report, a shocking 80% of Grade 3 pupils still cannot read for meaning in any language, while nearly 70% of Grade 6 pupils fail to reach appropriate reading levels in their language of learning and teaching. Even more concerning is the widening gap between pupils who speak English and Afrikaans and those who speak African languages - an unacceptable reality in a democratic South Africa. Equally distressing is the sharp decline in Maths proficiency among teachers. In 2013, only 1.4% of Grade 6 maths teachers had basic maths knowledge; today, that number has jumped to 7.3%. This means too many of our children are being taught by educators who lack essential skills to prepare them for the future. How can we expect our young people to compete in a world driven by science, technology, and innovation when our education system is failing them so badly? While we note the improvement in teacher reading proficiency, with 94% of Grade 6 teachers now classified as critical readers, this progress has yet to translate into better literacy outcomes for pupils. The UDM acknowledges efforts by some provinces to introduce reading assessments, but we need a national approach that ensures no child, regardless of where they live, is left behind. The root causes of this crisis are clear: • The lack of proper teacher training and professional development. • Overcrowded classrooms that prevent individual attention. • Budget cuts that leave provinces struggling to provide basic resources. • Misalignment between universities and the Department of Basic Education, leading to teachers unprepared to teach in African languages. The Department of Basic Education’s slow response has already robbed too many children of their right to quality education. The UDM demands urgent and decisive action: • Immediate intervention in foundation phase education to equip young learners with strong literacy and numeracy skills from the start. • Better teacher training and recruitment, where universities must produce educators who are truly fit for purpose. • Investment in African language education, because language should not be a barrier to success. • Proper budget allocations: Government must better spend funding for quality education. Our children are the future of this country but without the right education, they have no future at all. The UDM calls on the Government of National Unity to step up its game so that every child in South Africa receives the quality education they deserve.
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25 Feb, 2025
South Africa’s climate crisis: UDM calls on GNU to act swiftly
Statement by Zandile Phiri, Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is deeply concerned about the deteriorating climate crisis gripping South Africa. The country is in the grip of a worsening climate change crisis, with extreme weather events hitting harder and more often, putting the country’s people, economy, and environment at risk. Just this month, February 2025, KwaZulu-Natal was hammered by heavy rains and mudslides that killed seven people, while the Eastern Cape saw healthcare facilities wrecked by strong winds and flooding in the Alfred Nzo region. Pretoria has also recently endured a devastating tornado and severe flooding, prompting urgent safety warnings as homes, businesses, and infrastructure were left in ruins. South Africa needs to fight back and stop matters from getting worse. In that case, we need big, bold moves, starting with fixing our energy and transport systems, to cut emissions. The African Risk Capacity (ARC) has published a white paper titled “The State of Natural Disaster in Africa”, which examines the state of natural disasters in Africa and sheds light on a growing concern about the increased frequency of weather-related natural disasters and their devastating economic impact on the continent. Over the last decade, the frequency of disasters has steadily increased, rising from 32 incidents in 2014 to 56 occurrences in 2023, mainly due to floods. This escalating crisis has left South Africa, Mozambique, and Madagascar among the worst-affected nations in Southern Africa. Tackling this crisis requires an aggressive shift towards sustainable solutions. The country must prioritise strengthening its energy and transport systems to reduce emissions and build climate resilience. Government's commitment to renewable energy, as outlined in the Integrated Resource Plan, must be expedited to a just transition away from coal dependency. The potential of solar and wind energy, especially in resource-rich regions like the Northern Cape, must be fully, but carefully, harnessed. Additionally, investment in nuclear power, including small modular reactors that have proven successful in other nations, like China could ensure a stable and clean energy supply. Equally crucial is a transformation in the transport sector, as 90% of the country's transport emissions come primarily from private vehicles. The expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, such as Rea Vaya in Johannesburg, A Re Yeng in Tshwane and MyCiTi in Cape Town, could be a game-changer in reducing congestion and emissions. However, these systems must extend beyond major cities to smaller towns and rural areas, where deteriorating roads and limited public transport options have left communities vulnerable. To achieve this, the government must also address the ongoing tensions with the taxi industry and integrate minibus taxis into a cleaner, more efficient public transport system. Rail transport remains another area in dire need of reform. PRASA’s inefficiency, compounded by years of neglect and mismanagement, has rendered the system unreliable, leaving millions (including business and manufacturing) reliant on road transport. Restoring and modernising rail networks could significantly cut emissions while providing a safer, cost-effective transport alternative, particularly during disasters when roads become impassable. Strategic investment in rail infrastructure must become a national priority, ensuring that railways play a meaningful role in South Africa’s green transition. Beyond energy and transport, climate-proofing infrastructure must be embedded into urban planning, agriculture, water management, and disaster preparedness strategies. Extreme weather events are not anomalies but a new reality. Roads, bridges, buildings, and power grids must be designed to withstand severe weather conditions, while early warning systems and emergency response capabilities need urgent enhancement. Strengthening partnerships with global actors, like the European Union, will also be crucial in securing funding and technical expertise to meet the country’s climate targets under the Paris Agreement which for example include a greenhouse gas emission target of 350-420 MtCO2e by 2030. The evidence is undeniable, climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate crisis. The UDM believes that the Government of National Unity must act decisively to mitigate its effects, protect vulnerable communities, and build a sustainable future. The tools, policies, and frameworks exist, but without bold leadership and swift implementation, the country risks sliding deeper into an environmental and economic catastrophe. The time for half-measures and lip service has passed, our country needs urgent, transformative action before it is too late.
