Bantu Holomisa, Wife, Political Career, Education, And Appointments

Bantu Holomisa is a well-known and respected South African politician. He is the founder and current president of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and serves as a Member of Parliament.

Bantubonke Harrington Holomisa was born on 25 July 1955 in Mqanduli, Transkei (now Eastern Cape). He is the son of Chief Bazindlovu Holomisa. He attended Ngqungqu Primary School and later Jongilizwe College in Tsolo for his secondary education.

In 1976, he joined the Transkei Self-Defence Force. He rose through the ranks and became one of the first black Africans to attend the South African Military Academy in Pretoria. By 1987, he had become Commander of the Transkei Defence Force.  

In 1987, he led a military coup that removed Prime Minister George Matanzima. He later became Chairman of the Transkei Military Council and played a key role in preparing Transkei for the new democratic South Africa.

Holomisa joined the African National Congress (ANC) and actively campaigned with Nelson Mandela and other leaders during the 1994 elections. He served as Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism in the first democratic government.  

In 1996, he was expelled from the ANC after testifying before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. In 1997, he co-founded the United Democratic Movement (UDM) with Roelf Meyer. He remains the president of the UDM to this day.

Bantu Holomisa married his wife, Thunyelwa Holomisa, in 1981. They have a son together named Mandla Holomisa. He is known for keeping his family life relatively private.

Bantu Holomisa has remained an active voice in South African politics for decades, known for his strong principles and outspoken nature.

https://www.sahistory.org.za/people/bantu-holomisa  

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bantu_Holomisa