Amidst a gathering at a Prayer Day event in Gqeberha, United Democratic Movement (UDM) President Bantu Holomisa made a significant announcement this weekend, declaring his willingness, in principle, to stand as the UDM’s candidate for the premiership of the Eastern Cape province.
The decision comes after relentless pressure from various quarters including traditional leaders, religious organizations, civil society groups, and numerous individuals urging Holomisa to consider candidacy. It has also been a longstanding aspiration of the UDM’s structures within the Eastern Cape.
In anticipation of the forthcoming elections on May 29th, Holomisa expressed his commitment to campaigning across all provinces, albeit with a particular focus on the Eastern Cape. He emphasized that should the UDM perform well in the region on Election Day, the party would endeavor to secure the necessary adjustments to its candidates’ list through the Independent Electoral Commission within the permitted window after the elections.
However, given his national leadership role within the party, Holomisa acknowledged the need for delegation, stating that while he concentrates on the Eastern Cape, responsibilities at the national level would need to be temporarily reassigned.
In light of this potential transition, it is anticipated that the current Deputy President of the UDM will assume a more prominent role, effectively serving as the de facto President of the Party while Holomisa engages in the governance of the Eastern Cape.
The announcement has generated considerable interest and speculation within political circles, with many observers viewing Holomisa’s candidacy as a significant development in the Eastern Cape political landscape. As the election date draws nearer, all eyes will be on the UDM and its leadership as they navigate this pivotal moment in the province’s political trajectory.
