Bantu Holomisa Biography: Early Life, Age, Career, Controversies and Personal Life 2025

Bantu Holomisa Biography

Bantu Holomisa is a key figure in South African history and politics. His full name is Bantubonke Harrington Holomisa. He was born on July 25, 1955, in Mqanduli, a district in the former Transkei homeland, which is now part of the Eastern Cape province. Today, on December 15, 2025, he is 70 years old. Holomisa has worn many hats over the years. He started as a military officer, became a leader in Transkei, joined the African National Congress, and later founded his own party. Now, he serves as the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans in the Government of National Unity.

What makes Holomisa famous? He is best known for leading a bloodless coup in Transkei on December 30, 1987. This event changed the region’s leadership without violence. After that, he ruled Transkei until it rejoined South Africa in 1994. His move into national politics came with the end of apartheid. He joined the ANC and held a government post. But in 1996, he was expelled from the ANC after speaking out about corruption. This led him to start the United Democratic Movement in 1997. The UDM focuses on fighting corruption and promoting democracy.

Holomisa’s story shows resilience. He went from a rural background to high-level politics. His military past shaped his strong stance on discipline and integrity. In recent years, he has been vocal on issues like defence funding and governance. For example, in November 2025, he raised concerns about the Public Investment Corporation’s dealings. His role in the GNU since July 3, 2024, puts him at the center of military veterans’ affairs.

His influence spans decades. From testifying at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to supporting no-confidence motions against former leaders like Jacob Zuma in 2017. Holomisa’s path inspires those interested in South African politics. He shows how one person can impact change through determination.

Bantu Holomisa Early Life

Bantu Holomisa grew up in a rural setting. He was born into a chiefly family. His father was Chief Bazindlovu Holomisa. This background gave him a sense of leadership from a young age. Mqanduli, his birthplace, was part of Transkei, one of the bantustans created under apartheid. These areas were meant to separate black South Africans.

Holomisa attended Upper Ngqungqu Primary School in Mqanduli. He completed his early education there. For high school, he did not follow a traditional path. Instead, he earned his matric through correspondence courses. This means he studied on his own, without daily classes. Such methods were common in rural areas with limited schools.

His family ties influenced him. As the son of a chief, he learned about community and tradition. Transkei had its own customs and challenges under apartheid. Holomisa saw the effects of separation policies firsthand. This likely sparked his interest in change.

In his youth, Holomisa showed discipline. He joined the Anglican Church as a server. This role taught him responsibility. He also worked as a herd boy, looking after animals. These experiences built his work ethic.

By 1976, at age 21, he entered the military. This marked the end of his early years and the start of his career. His roots in Transkei shaped his views on homeland autonomy and later, post-apartheid unity.

Holomisa’s early life highlights key themes. Rural upbringing, family heritage, and self-study defined him. These elements prepared him for bigger roles.

Bantu Holomisa Career

Holomisa’s career began in the military. He joined the Transkei Defence Force on January 1, 1976. At first, he was a cadet. He trained hard and rose through the ranks. By 1985, he became a brigadier. This was a big step. He commanded the 141 Battalion.

In 1987, Holomisa led a major event. On December 30, 1987, he staged a bloodless coup. This removed Prime Minister Stella Sigcau from power. The coup followed the ouster of George Matanzima earlier that year. Holomisa took over as Chairman of the Military Council. He also served as head of the Council of Ministers under President Tutor Ndamase.

From 1987 to 1994, Holomisa governed Transkei. He focused on stability. His rule included economic reforms. He worked on anti-corruption measures. During this time, he interacted with South African Defence Force elements. He prepared for Transkei’s reintegration into South Africa.

Here is a list of key milestones in his Transkei leadership:

• Stabilized the region after political turmoil.
• Promoted homeland security.
• Addressed corruption scandals, like those involving Sol Kerzner.
• Prepared for the end of apartheid.

In 1994, apartheid ended. Holomisa joined the African National Congress on April 27, 1994. He became a member of the National Executive Committee. He campaigned nationwide with leaders like Thabo Mbeki and Cyril Ramaphosa.

From May 10, 1994, to September 30, 1996, he served as Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. This was under President Nelson Mandela. He worked with Dawie de Villiers. His policies aimed at tourism growth and environmental protection.

Holomisa contributed to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. He testified on past events. This helped heal the nation.

But tensions grew. On September 30, 1996, the ANC expelled him. This came after he spoke about bribes involving Stella Sigcau and Sol Kerzner.

In response, Holomisa founded the United Democratic Movement on September 27, 1997. He co-founded it with Roelf Meyer and John Taylor. He has been UDM president since then. The party entered parliament in 1999.

UDM’s platform includes centrist views and anti-corruption focus. Holomisa led support for a no-confidence motion against Jacob Zuma on August 8, 2017.

Here is a list of UDM achievements under Holomisa:

• Gained seats in national and provincial legislatures.
• Advocated for coalition politics.
• Pushed for integrity in government.

On July 3, 2024, Holomisa became Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. This is under President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister Angie Motshekga. He works with Richard Mkhungo. His role involves military veterans’ advocacy and defence reforms.

In 2025, he addressed budget cuts. On December 3, 2025, he highlighted R63 billion cuts affecting defence capabilities. He also raised DRC deployment issues on December 5, 2025.

His career also includes interactions with key figures. He met Nelson Mandela often. Here is a photo of them together.

Holomisa’s path covers military command, governance, and politics. He bridged old and new South Africa. His work in the GNU continues his service.

Bantu Holomisa Controversies

Holomisa has faced several disputes. His 1987 coup sparked debates. Some saw it as necessary for stability. Others questioned its methods. He defended it as bloodless and needed.

In 1996, his ANC expulsion was major. He testified about bribes to Stella Sigcau from Sol Kerzner. The ANC charged him with bringing disrepute. He countered with claims of ANC funding issues. This split opinions on loyalty versus integrity.

As UDM leader, he clashed with leaders. In 2017, he backed the motion against Zuma. This drew criticism from ANC supporters.

Recent issues in 2025 include governance claims. On November 9, 2025, he accused the Public Investment Corporation of failures in a Standard Bank deal. He demanded action to protect R3.5 trillion. The GEPF refuted his allegations on an unspecified date in 2025.

On September 4, 2025, he defended “go to hell” remarks in a radio interview. This summed up some GNU tensions.

In defence, on December 5, 2025, he expressed frustration at being sidelined by SANDF generals on DRC deployment. He also noted lack of consequence management in SANDF on November 17, 2025.

In October 2025, he commented on criminal justice concerns.

A sports controversy arose in December 2025. UDM took Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos to the Human Rights Commission. They alleged racist remarks about player Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Many linked this to Holomisa’s support for Kaizer Chiefs.

These events show Holomisa’s outspoken nature. He often challenges authority on ethics.

Bantu Holomisa Personal Life

Holomisa keeps his private life low-key. He married Thunyelwa Holomisa in 1981. They have two adult children. One is a son named Mandla Holomisa.

Family matters stay out of the spotlight. In 2019, he mourned the late Nkosazana Beauty, a relative.

Conclusion

Bantu Holomisa’s life tells a story of change. From Transkei roots to national roles, he adapted. His military start led to political influence. Founding UDM showed his commitment to democracy.

Key lessons include standing against corruption. His GNU role on July 3, 2024, aids veterans. In 2025, he tackles defence issues.

Holomisa’s legacy is as a bridge-builder. He mentored figures like Nqabayomzi Kwankwa. His work impacts multiparty coalitions.

Looking ahead, he may shape 2029 elections. His story teaches adaptability and integrity. South Africa benefits from such leaders.

FAQs

What is Bantu Holomisa famous for?

He is famous for the 1987 bloodless coup in Transkei and founding the UDM in 1997.

How old is Bantu Holomisa?

He is 70 years old as of December 15, 2025, born on July 25, 1955.

What political party is Bantu Holomisa in?

He is in the United Democratic Movement, which he leads.

Why was Bantu Holomisa expelled from the ANC?

He was expelled on September 30, 1996, after testifying about corruption involving Stella Sigcau.

What is Bantu Holomisa’s role in the GNU?

He serves as Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans since July 3, 2024.