Royal recruits give UDM a boost in Eastern Cape, says The Citizen

According to The Citizen, the United Democratic Movement (UDM) has secured high-profile recruits from the Amampondo and AbaThembu royal houses, a development party leader Bantu Holomisa described as a “homecoming” for the UDM.

Key recruits from two royal houses

Prince Mlimandlela Ndamase of the Amampondo royal house has volunteered to campaign for the UDM in the Eastern Cape, The Citizen reports. The party also announced that Princess Ndileka Dalindyebo Dlamini of the AbaThembu will be officially welcomed at Mthatha on 12 September, according to The Citizen.

Party leaders frame the moves as a return to roots

Quoting UDM president Bantu Holomisa, The Citizen says Holomisa called the recruitments a “homecoming” and said:

“The UDM is returning to its roots with renewed energy, new leadership and a clear mission. We are coming home to rebuild.”

Experience and endorsements

The Citizen reports that the UDM views the royal endorsements as strengthening its campaign in the Eastern Cape, particularly in Mthatha and KuGompo (formerly East London).

The Citizen also attributes a summary of Prince Ndamase’s background to the party’s presentation of his credentials: he previously served in the ANC Youth League, chaired the Eastern Cape Youth Commission, worked as a spokesperson at national and provincial levels including for former minister Nomvula Mokonyane, and held senior communications roles in the City of Joburg.

On Princess Ndileka Dalindyebo Dlamini, The Citizen reports that Holomisa praised her leadership credentials, including her service as a senator in Eswatini.

Strategic importance of the Eastern Cape

According to The Citizen, the UDM has identified the Eastern Cape as a key growth area amid weakening ANC support. The royal recruitments are presented by the party as bolstering its prospects in the province.

What to watch next

• The UDM will officially welcome Princess Ndileka Dalindyebo Dlamini at a gathering in Mthatha on 12 September, The Citizen reports.
• The party is positioning these endorsements as part of a broader push in Mthatha and KuGompo, The Citizen says.