Abathembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo's runaway bride, who shocked many when she was sworn in as a Member of Parliament representing the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), resigned on Monday from the party and has joined the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. She joins the likes of Floyd Shivambu, Dali Mpofu and Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Queen Khazeka, real name Nolubabalo Mcinga, confirmed the news to ZiMoja.

FAREWELL

Speaking to ZiMoja, Nolubabalo said she was not forced to leave the EFF but her resignation was a personal decision made in line with her principles and vision. "Resigning from any position is a normal and acceptable choice, whether for greener pastures, dissatisfaction or the need for a new direction," she said. "My departure had nothing to do with any external pressure or controversy but internal communication culture. I deeply respect the EFF as an organisation and the values the CIC is trying to represent internally," she added. There have been allegations of her being improperly hired by Shivambu without checking her credentials and she said those are false. "Floyd noticed my work on the ground during the campaign for the May 2024 elections. I was actively involved in areas where the EFF's deployed members were absent," she said. "In all the areas I worked in, there was a significant increase in votes for the EFF in Buffalo City Metro Municipality and Dr Beyers Naude District Municipality."

HOSTILITY

She also confirmed that she indeed is joining MK Party. "I have recently joined the MK Party because it aligns with my vision and values. The MK Party's culture emphasises freedom and respect, which I found lacking in my previous environment. Unfortunately, I cannot share my resignation letter as I left the EFF in peace," she said. "Joining the EFF had nothing to do with my status as the Queen of AbaThembu. The mockery and hostility faced by anyone leaving the EFF only confirm my decision to move on. Freedom means being able to make choices without fear or intimidation. I am now part of a movement that truly resonates with my values and I feel empowered and free to continue my work in advancing the cause of our people." Nolubabalo said joining the MK Party was a natural step.

"Unlike the oppressive dynamics I experienced, the MK Party values respect and unity, principles upheld by leaders like President Jacob Zuma," she said, adding that it was disappointing that some EFF members, who claim to fight for liberation and gender equality, were quick to attack her as a woman for exercising her right to resign.