Kudos to UDM for reining in Bobani

Whether one agrees with his politics or not, United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader Bantu Holomisa has always been a very correct and disciplined person – perhaps as a result of his military background.

Even so, it was a breath of political fresh air to see his party threaten one of its senior members with disciplinary action over unacceptable and disruptive behaviour in meetings of the Nelson Mandela Bay metro council.

UDM councillor Mongameli Bobani was sent a strongly worded letter from the party’s national management warning him to change his disruptive ways or face being recalled from his seat, which is the only one the party holds in that council.

The warning related to rowdy behaviour on a number of occasions, including an alleged assault on Cope MP and secretary-general Deidre Carter at one meeting. The UDM forced Bobani to apologise to Carter.

It is encouraging that a party realises that, despite the robust nature of politics, there are lines which should not be crossed.

This country is fragile enough as it is without permitting thuggish behaviour by those representatives who should be setting an example.

We hope others – in particular the ANC and the EFF – are paying attention to this.

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