SUMMARY

All supporters of UDM (United Democratic Movement) were members of, or considered themselves to be followers of the UDM. This party was formed in 1997 as the first non-racial political party in South Africa, following the demise of the Apartheid government. It was established by a prominent black and a prominent white politician: Bantu Holomisa, who ruled the ‘homeland’ of Transkei during Apartheid and was expelled out of the ANC (African National Congress) after making allegations to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission about bribes that were paid to ANC members, and Roel Meyer, who negotiated the first post-apartheid constitution for the National Party but left the party after a disagreement with de Klerk. The UDM sought the support of the black voters who were unsatisfied with the ANC and white voters who were disenchanted with the National Party. When leaving their respective parties, both Holomisa and Meyer decided to set up a political movement. Holomisa formed the National Consultative Forum and Meyer formed the New Movement Process. In July 1997, it was decided that these two parties should merge into a new political party, and the UDM was formed.

While formed as a non-racial party, the supporters of UDM were mainly black inhabitants of the Kwazulu-Natal region, led by ‘warlord’ Sifiso Nkabinde. Nationally, the UDM was led by Holomisa, who was elected the party’s first president in June 1998, and leads the party up till today.

The supporters of UDM have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.