A leaked resignation letter has revealed that Zandile Dabula has stepped down as president and member of the Operation Dudula Political Party.
In the letter, dated Wednesday (13 April), Dabula cites differences over the organisation’s political direction and concerns about its transition from a civic movement into a political party.
The anti-illegal immigration group is expected to host a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday afternoon amid growing speculation about divisions within the organisation.
Dabula said her resignation followed “a long period of introspection” about the future of the organisation and her role within it.
She revealed that some members of the national leadership had questioned whether transforming Operation Dudula into a political party may have happened too early.
“There was a growing appreciation amongst some of us that the organisation had built strong influence and impact as a civic movement rooted in activism, advocacy, and community mobilisation,” Dabula said in the letter.
She said while she respected the collective decisions taken by the organisation, her own vision no longer aligned with the political direction being pursued.
Dabula also pointed to internal differences over leadership, structure and strategy, saying it was in the best interests of both herself and the movement for her to step aside.
“My conscience will not allow me to continue asking supporters to make further sacrifices when I personally believe that my contribution moving forward would be more meaningful outside of the current political structure,” she said.
Despite resigning from the party, Dabula stressed that she still supports the ideals and concerns that gave rise to Operation Dudula, including immigration, community safety, accountability, economic inclusion and the dignity of South Africans.
She said she would continue engaging on these issues through civic and community-based initiatives.
Dabula also thanked members, volunteers and supporters for their commitment to the movement and said she would communicate further on her future plans at an appropriate time.
