Bantu Holomisa Biography: Age, Salary, Wife, Net Worth, Nationality, Instagram Kids

Bantu Holomisa is a South African politician and military leader. He served as the Commander of the Transkei Defence Force and led the Transkei government from 1987 to 1994.

In 1997, Holomisa co-founded the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and became its president. He was elected to the South African Parliament in 1999 and currently holds the Deputy Minister of Defence position.

Holomisa is a prominent South African political figure known for his leadership and contributions to the country’s political landscape.

Profile

• Full Name: Bantubonke Harrington Holomisa
• Stage Name: Bantu Holomisa
• Born: July 5, 1955
• Age: 69 years old
• Birthplace: Mqanduli, South Africa
• Nationality: South African
• Occupation: South African politician
• Height: Unknown
• Parent: Chief Bazindlovu Holomisa
• Siblings: Phathekile Holomisa
• Spouse: Thunyelwa Holomisa (m. 1981)
• Children: Mandla Holomisa
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: R6.2 billion

Early Life And Education

Bantubonke Harrington Holomisa was born on July 5, 1955, in Mqanduli, South Africa, to Chief Bazindlovu Holomisa, a member of the Transkei Legislative Assembly.

While details about his mother’s identity remain unknown, Holomisa has a brother named Phathekile Holomisa.

He received his early education at Mqanduli Primary School before attending Jongilizwe College in Tsolo, a prestigious institution designed for the sons of chiefs and headmen.

In 1976, Holomisa joined the Transkei Defence Force, where he quickly rose through the ranks. Notably, he became one of the first black officers to complete a senior staff course at the South African Army College in 1984.

Holomisa later pursued further education at the University of South Africa, expanding his knowledge beyond his military career. Holomisa is of Xhosa ethnicity, though his religious beliefs are not publicly known.

Career

Bantu Holomisa began his military career in 1976 with the Transkei Defence Force, where he rapidly rose through the ranks. By 1985, he had achieved the rank of brigadier.

Holomisa’s leadership reached a pivotal moment in October 1987 when he orchestrated a bloodless coup, ousting Prime Minister George Matanzima.

He also overthrew Matanzima’s successor, Stella Sigcau, consolidating power and becoming the head of the Transkei government, which he led until its reintegration into South Africa in 1994.

Following the end of apartheid in 1994, Holomisa became a key political figure, joining the African National Congress (ANC) and being appointed as Deputy Minister of Environment and Tourism under President Nelson Mandela.

During this time, he was involved in the campaign for South Africa’s first democratic elections, working alongside prominent leaders such as Thabo Mbeki and Cyril Ramaphosa.

His role in the ANC was significant, but tensions rose after Holomisa testified before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission about corruption allegations against Sigcau.

His refusal to retract his testimony ultimately led to his expulsion from the ANC on September 30, 1996.

Following this, Holomisa co-founded the United Democratic Movement (UDM) in 1997 with Roelf Meyer, aiming to provide an alternative platform to challenge the ANC’s political dominance.

The UDM quickly gained influence in South African politics, with Holomisa taking on a leadership role and advocating for greater accountability and transparency in government.

1999, Holomisa was elected to Parliament, marking a significant milestone in his political career and further solidifying the UDM’s presence in South African politics.

Under his leadership, the UDM has played a crucial role in building coalitions among opposition parties and continues to advocate for democratic principles and good governance.

Holomisa remains an influential figure in the South African political landscape, upholding the values of democracy and accountability throughout his career.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @bantuholomisa
• Facebook handle: Bantu Holomisa
• Twitter handle: @BantuHolomisa

Personal Life

Bantu Holomisa is married to Thunyelwa Holomisa, and their marriage is registered under the Transkei Marriage Act, signifying a formal union without an antenuptial contract.

The couple has two children, one of whom is their son, Mandla Holomisa.

Net Worth

Bantu Holomisa is estimated to have a net worth of R6.2 billion, though this figure remains unconfirmed and has not been updated in nearly a decade.

Holomisa has held significant positions throughout his political career, including serving as a parliament member and Deputy Minister of Defence.

His military and political leadership have contributed to his prominent status in South African politics.