By Becker Semela:
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has emerged from its national electoral congress with a renewed leadership team, signalling its determination to strengthen the party ahead of South Africa’s local government elections in November.
While delegates opted for continuity by re-electing party president Bantu Holomisa and his deputy, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, the congress also delivered a message that renewal remains important within the organisation.
The election of several new leaders reflects the party’s intention to reposition itself as it prepares to contest municipalities across the country.
The most notable outcome of the congress was the replacement of long-serving national treasurer Thandiwe Nontenja. Delegates voted Patrick Sithole into the position, a move that was met with celebrations from sections of the congress.
The result highlighted the willingness of party members to embrace change in key leadership positions while maintaining confidence in the party’s top leadership.
Holomisa, who has led the UDM since its formation as its co-founder, retained the confidence of delegates as the party seeks to improve its electoral performance. His deputy, Kwankwa, also secured another term after playing an increasingly important role in the organisation over the years.
Since Holomisa joined the Government of National Unity in 2024 as Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Kwankwa has become the public face of the UDM in Parliament.
As parliamentary leader, he has been responsible for driving the party’s legislative programme and ensuring that its voice remains active in national debates.
The duo of Holomisa and Kwankwa has become central to the party’s strategy. Last year, Holomisa submitted his first annual executive performance report to Kwankwa as part of the UDM’s internal accountability processes, demonstrating the party’s commitment to ensuring that leaders serving in government remain accountable to party structures.
Beyond the top leadership positions, delegates elected a new national executive tasked with rebuilding and strengthening the party ahead of the elections.
Yongama Zigebe was elected national chairperson while Kamogelo Mokonyana was chosen as deputy chairperson. Eastern Cape legislator Bulelani Bobotyane takes over as secretary-general, with Adolphina Mani from Limpopo elected as deputy secretary-general. The party also elected Pumeza Mankabane as financial planner; Tseko Mqhedlana will serve as national organiser alongside Eric Mpofu and Dumisani Khumalo.
The newly elected leadership now faces the immediate challenge of translating the outcomes of the congress into electoral support.
Like many smaller political parties, the UDM will have to convince voters that it can play a meaningful role in local government at a time when coalition politics has become an important feature of South Africa’s political landscape.
Political analysts have often argued that smaller parties need strong organisational structures to remain relevant, particularly during local government elections where community-level campaigning can determine electoral success.
For the UDM, the new leadership team will be expected to strengthen branches, mobilise supporters and present clear policy alternatives to voters. The November elections are expected to be fiercely contested, with political parties seeking to expand their influence in municipalities where coalition governments have become increasingly common.
The party’s members said retaining experienced leadership while introducing fresh faces could provide the balance needed to improve its electoral fortunes.
The outcomes of the electoral congress have therefore done more than fill leadership positions. They have provided the UDM with a fresh mandate and a leadership team that will now be judged by its ability to grow the party’s support and secure stronger representation in councils across South Africa. – @NewsSA_Online
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