UDM Secures 0.84% Of National Vote, Winning 249,398 Votes As Party Challenges IEC Over Buffalo City Results

 

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) received 0.84% of the national vote in the 2026 Local Government Elections, securing approximately 249,398 votes across South Africa. Although the party's national support remains below 1%, its performance in the Eastern Cape, particularly Buffalo City Metro and King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, has placed it among the parties attracting attention in the province. However, the party's election experience has also been marked by a dispute with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) over alleged voting and counting irregularities in Buffalo City. UDM leader Bantu Holomisa has threatened to approach the Electoral Court following the rejection of the party's objections. He has formally demanded detailed explanations and supporting records from the IEC, seeking clarity on the decisions taken during the electoral process. He joins Bongi Gwala on Power Breakfast to share more.