Another politician kisses the MK party goodbye

Colleen Makhubele has resigned as a Member of Parliament (MP) and the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.

“I hereby tender my notice of resignation as a Member of Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, representing the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, effective 28 February 2026,” Makhubele said in a recent letter.

The letter was addressed to the party leader and former South African President, Jacob Zuma.

Makhubele states in her letter that after careful consideration, she thought her resignation was in the party’s best interest. Her letter does not mention intent to leave the party as a whole.

However, she reportedly confirmed to the Mail & Guardian that she was also leaving the MK party.

In her letter, she emphasised that the unity of African parties remains a priority, and she intends to work tirelessly to redefine the foundations of inequalities in the political economy.

Makhubele transitioned from the South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA) to the MK in June 2024.

In her resignation, she took the opportunity to offer a wider assessment of the political climate in South Africa.

Makhubele expressed deep reverence for the country’s “African giants”. These included leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, and Zuma himself.

She credited the mentioned leaders and political figures with leading South Africa out of apartheid and building an equitable society.

However, she offered a stark contrast between those historical achievements and the current political landscape.

Makhubele questioned whether modern politicians are protecting the struggle’s heritage or allowing it to be eroded by “selfishness, corruption and uncontrollable factionalism”.

Makhubele’s resignation was marked by praise for Zuma, whom she described as a “true son of Africa” and a “champion of the poor”.

She also commended her colleagues in the MK, emphasising the importance of a “sharp, credible, and effective opposition” to hold the Government of National Unity accountable.

Looking to the future, Makhubele made it clear that she is not stepping away from her career in politics.

She pointed out internal and external divisions in politics and urged the country’s leaders to rise above “identity politics, party affiliations, personal agendas and ethnic divisions”.

Makhubele declared that the “unity of African parties remains my passion” and stated that her goal is to redefine the foundation of the political economy to combat poverty and inequality.

She pledged to continue advocating for radical socio-economic change and to influence policies and legislation from outside Parliament, using her voice to uplift historically disadvantaged communities.

Makhubele’s resignation comes after a chaotic year for the MK party, which faced repeated resignations, dismissals, and internal crises in 2025.

This article was written by Zané Steyn.