In the political arena where corruption often lurks in the shadows of power, a beacon of integrity emerges in the form of Mthunzi Mdwaba.
Stepping onto the stage as the United Democratic Movement’s (UDM) Gauteng premier candidate, Mdwaba brings with him a resolute spirit and a track record of courageously confronting corruption.
Whistleblower on corruption
Mdwaba’s journey was paved with the fiery determination to uphold the values of transparency and accountability. Earlier this year, he thrust himself into the spotlight by sounding the alarm on alleged corruption implicating prominent ANC members.
Accusations were levelled against figures such as Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Labour and Employment Minister Thulas Nxesi. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande were also fingered. Mdwaba alleged an attempt to solicit a hefty bribe.
This courageous act of whistleblowing underscored Mdwaba’s unwavering commitment to combatting corruption at its core. Even though it was met with legal challenges and skepticism.
Bantu Holomisa, the stalwart leader of the UDM, stands firmly behind Mdwaba. He recognises him as a whistleblower deserving of protection and support.
Speaks truth to power
In an exclusive interview with Sunday World, Holomisa extolled Mdwaba’s bravery in speaking truth to power. He affirmed his belief in Mdwaba’s potential to contribute significantly to the party’s mission. That of uprooting corruption from the fabric of South African governance.
Holomisa’s confidence in Mdwaba’s integrity is unwavering. This despite legal setbacks in defamation cases brought against him by the aforementioned accused politicians.
He told Sunday World that he views these challenges not as defeats. He sees them as steps toward the greater goal of dismantling systemic corruption.
“I saw in him, personally, a bold person. It is not easy to go out and say the things he said.
“Mdwaba has not been charged, or convicted of any crime and has been cleared by the IEC. He is not a criminal, so I am not worried. I am confident that he would add value to the UDM.”
Mdwaba’s credentials speak volumes. They reflect a man of multifaceted talents. A deep understanding of labour, economics, and international affairs, Holomisa commended him.
Suitable premier candidate for Gauteng
As the UDM’s premier candidate for Gauteng, Mdwaba stands poised to make history, he said. His selection signifies a strategic move by the party. To place a seasoned professional at the helm of one of South Africa’s most economically significant provinces.
Holomisa praised Mdwaba’s unparalleled qualifications. He emphasised his educational background, international experience, and commitment to effective governance.
In contrast to his political counterparts, Holomisa noted that Mdwaba’s candidacy shines brightly as a beacon of hope for Gauteng. His dedication to the complexities of the province, coupled with his unblemished reputation, sets him apart. Makes him the ideal candidate to lead.
“We assessed his background in labour and economics. Also his effective representation of South Africa on the international stage.
“Mdwaba understands the complexities of Gauteng, a highly contested province. Compared to other candidates across parties, he’s leaps and bounds ahead. Gauteng requires someone of his calibre — educated, internationally experienced, and more. Unlike candidates like Panyaza, who lie to us on a daily basis.
“Mdwaba is an asset to the UDM; we’ve never had someone of his caliber before.”
