Colleen Makhubele quits MK Party: Shock resignation deepens Zuma’s opposition turmoil
Colleen Makhubele quits MK Party
South Africa’s political landscape shifted again on Monday as Collen Makhubele resigned as a Member of Parliament and formally quit the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). Her departure marks the latest high-profile exit from the party led by former president Jacob Zuma.
Makhubele’s resignation, effective 28 February 2026, follows months of internal turbulence within MKP’s parliamentary caucus, including her removal as chief whip amid leadership reshuffles and factional disputes.
Official Resignation Letter Confirms Exit from Parliament
In a letter dated 23 February 2026 and addressed to Zuma, Makhubele stated:
“I hereby tender my notice of resignation as a member of parliament of the Republic of South Africa, representing the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), effective 28 February 2026.”
She added that she believes she can better serve South Africa “by utilising my skills, qualifications, and experience in a different capacity.”
Makhubele also confirmed she is leaving the MK Party altogether, not just her parliamentary seat, a move that further reshapes the official opposition benches in the National Assembly.
Leadership Rift and Chief Whip Controversy
Makhubele’s exit comes weeks after she was removed as chief whip of the MK caucus. The position had already been a source of instability within the party.
She was first appointed chief whip in May 2025, replacing Mzwanele Manyi. However, in November, then-parliamentary leader John Hlophe removed her from the post and replaced her with Des van Rooyen. Zuma later reversed that decision, reinstating Makhubele and suspending Hlophe.
Last month, further restructuring within MKP saw her removed from the chief whip role once again, signalling deeper divisions inside the party’s leadership ranks.
Political analysts say the frequent leadership changes point to ongoing efforts by MKP to stabilise its parliamentary caucus following disputes over strategy and authority.
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MK Party’s Rise and Internal Instability
The MK Party emerged as a significant political force in the 2024 general elections, becoming South Africa’s official opposition. However, its rapid rise has been accompanied by internal power struggles and public disagreements.
Makhubele joined Parliament in early 2025 after the party’s electoral breakthrough. Before joining MKP, she served as Speaker of the City of Johannesburg under the Congress of the People (COPE). After leaving COPE, she founded the South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA), which she led before aligning with MKP in June 2024.
In her resignation remarks, Makhubele stood by her decision to join MKP at the time, stating that she still resonates with the party’s original message, despite what she described as “misrepresentations and concentrated efforts to create divisions.”
MKP Leadership Reshuffle Continues
Following her resignation, MKP confirmed that Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi will take over as chief whip in the National Assembly, formalising the latest leadership reshuffle.
The party has faced multiple internal controversies in recent months, including suspensions and disciplinary actions involving senior figures. Makhubele’s departure adds to a growing list of high-profile changes within Zuma’s political formation.
Her exit also raises questions about MKP’s cohesion and long-term stability as the official opposition tasked with holding the Government of National Unity accountable.
What’s Next for Colleen Makhubele?
Makhubele did not disclose her next political move, leaving speculation about whether she will join another party, revive her former political platform, or pursue a different public role.
She described her parliamentary tenure as an honour, noting that she had risen to serve at “the highest level of the official opposition.”
For now, her resignation underscores the volatility within South Africa’s opposition politics, and signals that further realignments could lie ahead.
FAQ
Why did Colleen Makhubele resign from the MK Party?
Makhubele resigned amid ongoing leadership reshuffles and internal disputes within the MK Party. She said she could better serve the country in a different capacity.
When does Colleen Makhubele’s resignation take effect?
Her resignation from Parliament and the MK Party takes effect on 28 February 2026.
Was Colleen Makhubele removed as chief whip?
Yes. She was removed as MK Party chief whip during a recent restructuring after earlier reinstatement following internal disputes.
Who leads the MK Party?
The MK Party is led by former South African president Jacob Zuma.
Who replaced Colleen Makhubele as chief whip?
Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi has been appointed as the new chief whip in the National Assembly.
What party was Colleen Makhubele in before MK?
She previously served under the Congress of the People (COPE) and later founded the South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA).
Is the MK Party facing internal divisions?
Yes. The party has experienced leadership disputes, suspensions and multiple reshuffles since becoming the official opposition in 2024.
Will Colleen Makhubele join another political party?
She has not announced her next move, leaving her political future uncertain.