The process of establishing the UDM in the New South Africa, has not been an easy task. Because of the political intolerance of the supporters of the ruling party, our members have been harassed and some of have even lost their lives. The UDM and their family and friends mourn them and value their supreme sacrifice.

The UDM sadly lost members in Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, the North West and the Western Cape and despite this we continue to be active in these provinces. This illustrates the dedication and commitment that our members have towards the UDM and true democracy and freedom. We salute you! Along with all our fallen comrades, we specifically pay tribute to Sifiso Nkabinde. Sifiso Nkabinde was elected as the first Secretary General of the United Democratic Movement, and became the first prominent UDM leader whose life was taken in politically inspired violence.

All attempts of the ANC to harm, vilify and discredit him, failed and he ultimately paid the highest price when he was shot dead in cold blood on 21 January 1999 near his home in Richmond, KwaZulu Natal. It was indeed senior leaders of the ruling party who first started speculating about the “non-political” reasons behind Nkabinde's assassination. People like Steve Tshwete were quick to point the finger away from politically inspired violence.

In the meanwhile the investigation and prosecution of suspects have been successfully completed. And contrary to the ANC's propaganda, politically inspired motives for the assassination was exposed during the trail. The people convicted of this horrific crime admitted under oath that high-ranking ANC officials had offered them money to assassinate Nkabinde.

It would appear then that the foot soldiers were convicted whilst the masterminds have been let of the hook. Will they see this protection that they were given as consent for their methods, and could more such assassinations be ordered?

The contribution that Sifiso Nkabinde made to this organisation cannot and should not go unnoticed and unacknowledged. He was a brave and courageous leader. He was never afraid to speak his mind. We can only do him proud by ensuring that the UDM grows. He was a true son of the African soil.

May his soul, and those of all our fallen heroes, rest in peace and may their families and friends find consolation in the fact that they have laid down their lives in the pursuit of democracy.