UDM President - Bantu holomisa
East London
By Staff Reporter
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) will bring 2 500 voting delegates to East London later this month for its 6th National Congress, a key gathering that will shape the party’s plans for the 2026 Local Government Elections.
The congress begins this morning at the Absa Stadium grounds in East London. According to Acting Secretary General Zandile Phiri, the three-day programme will focus on the party’s organisational and financial health, proposed constitutional changes, and how to rebuild trust in municipalities.
Delegates will also debate the UDM’s campaign strategy ahead of the 2026 local elections and the 2029 National and Provincial Elections. A major moment will be the launch of the UDM’s 2026 Local Government Elections Manifesto on Saturday, 27 June. UDM President Major General Bantu Holomisa, MP, will deliver the keynote address and unveil the party’s message on clean governance, reliable basic services, protecting public money, and holding councillors accountable.
“The congress comes at a difficult time for many communities facing unemployment, crime, corruption and weak services,” Phiri said. “The UDM will use this platform to strengthen its structures and recommit to a local government agenda that puts people before power.” Another key item will be the election of new National Office Bearers.
The process will be managed by the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (IEMSA), with Advocate Terry Tselane presiding over nominations, voting and results. Members of the public and media are invited to attend the open session.
Congress details
Dates: 26, 27 and 28 June 2026
Venue: Absa Stadium, East London, Eastern Cape
