ANC’s ‘sleepness nights’: UDM takes aim at ANC stronghold in Buffalo City

The United Democratic Movement (UDM), led by Bantu Holomisa, is making inroads into the historically ANC stronghold of Buffalo City, Eastern Cape. UDM deputy president Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, originally from Phiri Mission near Qonce, has been unveiled as the party's mayoral candidate for the upcoming local government elections. Kwankwa's background in the region has given him a unique perspective, allowing him to understand the dynamics of Buffalo City and the broader region.

His campaign emphasizes his intention to remain in Buffalo City if elected, stating, "I am not going to be like others who leave after being elected; I come from here, I will stay here, this is my home."

Kwankwa's candidacy is seen as a potential challenge to the ANC's stronghold in Buffalo City. The UDM is targeting the youth, whom Holomisa and Kwankwa claim the ANC often overlooks in terms of political opportunities. This focus on the youth is a strategic move, as these individuals are seen as key targets for both parties. Kwankwa stated that the UDM is targeting "the youth that the ANC is using as their workhorses and their step ladder to power, but neglecting them when it comes to positions."

The UDM's recruitment strategy is not aimed at attracting new members from the ANC or the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), but rather at mobilizing those who have left these parties due to dissatisfaction with service delivery. Kwankwa noted that during internal conflicts, ANC leaders sometimes sideline promising members in favor of unpopular figures. However, the UDM is capitalizing on this by attracting members who have been marginalized by the ANC.

While it's too early to determine if UDM support is growing, the party's campaign has already sparked some discontent among ANC members in Buffalo City. Disgruntled ANC members have accused the mayor, Princess Faku, of manipulating councillor candidate nominations, alleging that this process was influenced by other party officials. The UDM's success in Buffalo City could be further bolstered by alleged irregularities in the selection processes, which have fueled discontent among some ANC members.