Colleen Makhubele has resigned as a member of Parliament representing the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
She stepped down on Monday.
She confirmed her departure in a letter to former president Jacob Zuma, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve in parliament and as the party’s chief whip before she was removed from the position in January this year following internal factional disputes.
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Makhubele, who entered parliament in January last year and briefly served as MK Party chief whip from May 2025, cited a desire to use her skills in other ways to serve South Africa.
“In the short time I served in parliament, I was honoured to rise to the highest level of the Official Opposition in Parliament. I will forever cherish the opportunity to serve the nation of South Africa, its citizens, and the MK Party.”
[JUST IN] Colleen Makhubele has resigned as a member of Parliament for the uMkhonto WeSizwe Party.
Makhubele became an MP in January last year.
Became MK’s parliamentary Chief Whip in May 2025 before being removed from the position 8-months later. TCG pic.twitter.com/SaC8qBe9FK
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) February 23, 2026
She reflected positively on her time in the caucus, acknowledged the friendships formed, and hinted at concerns over factionalism, instability, and political challenges within the party.
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Although her future political direction is unclear, she said the move was in the best interest of the caucus and that she does not regret joining MKP in 2024, emphasising her continued commitment to contributing to legislation, policy, and public debate, particularly for marginalised communities.
“I still resonate with the message and clarion call that led me to transition from my former political party, SARA, to MKP in June 2024. This call remains as relevant today as ever, despite the misrepresentations and concentrated efforts to create divisions both internally and externally.”
She added: “I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to you, President J.G. Zuma, for granting me the honour of serving the nation of South Africa, its citizens, and the MK Party.
“It has been a privilege to be part of the 7th Democratic Administration and to work in the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa—a place that has produced some of the greatest legends of our country.”
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
First published on African Insider
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