Zandile Dabula has resigned as President and member of the Operation Dudula Political Party, effective 14 May 2026.
In a resignation letter, Dabula said the decision followed “a long period of introspection” about the organisation’s direction, her role within it, and her responsibility to supporters.
Dabula said some in the national leadership had reflected on whether the transition from a civic movement to a political party happened too soon. She noted that Operation Dudula had built strong influence as an activist and community-based organisation, and that her vision for its future now differed from the current political path being pursued.
“While I respected and supported the collective decisions taken by the organisation at the time, I have come to accept that my own vision for the future of the movement differs from the current political direction being pursued,” she wrote.
She added that differences over leadership, structure and strategy had emerged as the organisation grew, and that stepping aside was in the best interest of both herself and the movement. Dabula said her conscience would not allow her to ask supporters to make further sacrifices when she believed her contribution would be more meaningful outside the current political structure.
Dabula stressed she was not abandoning the ideals that gave rise to Operation Dudula. She said issues of immigration, community safety, accountability, lawfulness, economic inclusion and the dignity of South Africans remained priorities she would continue to engage on through civic and community initiatives.
She thanked members, volunteers and supporters for their commitment and said she would communicate her future plans at an appropriate time.
Dabula wished the organisation, its leadership and members “strength and success going forward.”
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