By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) finalized the registration ahead of its 6th National Congress in KuGompo City (formerly know as East London) this weekend.
The party will elect new national leaders and adopt its strategy, ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The UDM conference taking place at the Buffalo City Stadium, features over 2,500 delegates and will conclude on Sunday.
UDM founding president General Bantu Holomisa and his deputy, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, are all set for another term in office.
While the top two leadership roles are secured, nearly 30 other party members will vigorously contest the remaining eight national positions.
Delivering his opening address, Holomisa said, once the Congress has elected its leadership, focus should immediately shift to the 2026 Local Government Elections and the road to 2029.
“We expect to come out of this National Congress with a dynamic leadership team that reflects a balance between experienced leaders and young people, who will together drive the growth, renewal and strengthening of the party going forward.”
“They must also strive to promote unity, and to see it that the UDM reaches all the corners of South Africa.”
He added that the UDM structures must emerge from this Congress united, focused and ready for the task ahead. It is going to be important to nominate Councillors who will understand the role they are to play in municipalities in service of our people.”
The UDM supports the establishment of the Section 89 Impeachment Committee and believes that Constitutional processes must be allowed to run their cause.
“UDM supports the establishment of the Section 89 Impeachment Committee and believes that Constitutional processes must be allowed to run their course, said Holomisa.
“There has been no shift from what we said during the debate on the report of the Independent Panel chaired by Judge Sandile Ngcobo.
“We maintain that the President, together with all those implicated in the matter, must make use of the opportunity to present their side of the story before the committee, added UDM president.”
The UDM increased its seats from two to three with 78 448 votes in the National Assembly after the 2024 National Elections. A similar situation played out in the Eastern Cape when the party saw its seats increase from two to three with 66 572 votes.