KHAYELITSHA, Western Cape — The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is set to officially launch its Western Cape election manifesto and announce its highly anticipated City of Cape Town mayoral candidate during a major campaign event in Khayelitsha. This strategic gathering marks a significant escalation in the party’s local government election efforts, as leadership aims to present a viable, community-driven alternative government for the region.
Party leader General Bantu Holomisa is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the event. Earlier in the day, General Holomisa engaged directly with local residents, focusing on actionable solutions to the socio-economic challenges facing some of Cape Town’s most poverty-stricken areas.
UDM Secretary General Bulelani Bobotyane emphasized that the party’s campaign is rooted in tangible community upliftment rather than merely contesting elections for the sake of participation. Bobotyane confirmed that the event will introduce a slate of proportional representation (PR) and ward candidates who are already deeply embedded in local community structures.
Addressing the party’s current political footprint, Bobotyane acknowledged that the UDM currently holds only one seat in a city council comprising over 230 councilors. However, the party is actively campaigning to secure multiple seats, stressing that their outreach is focused on listening to residents, devising tailored solutions, and ensuring strict accountability in local governance.
The upcoming mayoral candidate, along with the broader slate of nominees, hails from diverse, grassroots backgrounds. According to Bobotyane, the roster includes experienced individuals from community policing forums (CPF), school governing bodies (SGBs), educators, informal settlement leaders, and local church figures. These candidates have been selected based on their proven track records of community involvement and dedication to the Western Cape.
The official reveal of the mayoral candidate is scheduled for 12:00, with General Holomisa expected to outline the party’s comprehensive vision for the city. As the campaign intensifies, the UDM continues to position itself as a ready, accountable, and representative alternative for the voters of Cape Town.
