UDF says it will not contest November local government elections

The United Democratic Front (UDF) has confirmed it will not take part in the 4 November local government elections, saying its general council resolved against any form of participation.

Decision and official denial

UDF national convenor Jo Mboweni said the organisation’s general council resolved that the UDF “shall not in any way or fashion participate in the upcoming local government elections.”

Mboweni described contrary reports as “unfounded” and “misinformation,” and said the movement wished to “distance itself from this unfounded rumour and misinformation.”

Talks, meetings and fundraising claims

The UDF rejected reports that it had held talks with the anti-migrant advocacy movement March and March or that it was preparing to enter the 4 November polls.

Mboweni said the UDF “never met with the March and March movement and while we respect the said organisation’s rights to associate and to set their own objectives, we do not have any relationship whatsoever with this organisation or any of its leaders or structures and funders.”

The UDF also denied it was hosting any event related to its 43rd anniversary in the Gauteng province and distanced itself from anyone claiming to be raising funds for a national 43rd anniversary event.

Engagements and future plans

Mboweni confirmed the UDF had held meetings with various civic organisations, church leaders, traditional leaders, professionals and “four registered political formations.” He said the UDF made clear at those meetings that it would not participate in the local government elections.

On future elections, Mboweni said the UDF told parties that it may register with the IEC to prepare to participate in the provincial and the national election in 2029.

Public stance and media approach

UDF secretariat head Juliet Diratsagae said the organisation preferred to “shy away from the public media” and instead to “participate constructively in the organisation’s agenda of promoting active citizenry.”

What the UDF labels misinformation

• The claim that the UDF will contest the 4 November local government elections.
• Reports of meetings or cooperation with March and March.
• Allegations of fundraising for a Gauteng 43rd anniversary event.

The UDF’s statements come as the movement seeks to define its role after being revived by some of its former leaders and activists.