JOHANNESBURG - The United Democratic Movement is working to rebuild its support ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
Once a strong ANC challenger in the Eastern Cape, the party has struggled to maintain its influence.
The party launched its election manifesto on Saturday in KuGompo City.
Leader Bantu Holomisa said the UDM has always put communities ahead of parliamentary politics.
With the UDM marking its 30th anniversary in 2027, Holomisa is now one of South Africa’s longest-serving political leaders.
Now 70, the Deputy Defence Minister faces the daunting task of winning voter support in this year’s local government elections.
The United Democratic Movement was formed in 1997 after Bantu Holomisa’s expulsion from the African National Congress.
Years later, the party is regarded as one of the most vocal opponents of corruption.
Despite its years in politics, the UDM has struggled to match the support of bigger parties.
While some leaders face criticism for clinging to power, Holomisa remains the UDM’s top choice.
"It was the UDM who promoted good governance long before it became fashionable. It was the UDM that campaigned relentlessly against floor crossing until it was removed from our structures. Our critics never thought that we would last more than a year. But we are still here nearly 30 years later,” Holomisa said.
Eastern Cape provincial secretary Bulelani Bobotyane said: "Our honest general view is that we are a United Democratic Movement, meaning that as an organisation we are united through our branches. We are now at our national congress, and all of our members who want to contest can contest."
And after delivering its elective congress and election manifesto this weekend, the UDM says it will continue championing good governance.