A member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), Gezane Eric Kohane, also known as “Penny Penny”, has officially resigned from both the party and Parliament, citing what he described as ongoing attacks, vilification and humiliation from within the organisation’s provincial leadership.
In a resignation letter addressed to MK Party President Jacob Zuma and dated 15 May 2026, Kohane said he joined the party believing in the struggle for the emancipation of the people, but claimed he was ultimately subjected to treatment that damaged his dignity and reputation.
“It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation letter to you, my President,” Kohane wrote in the letter.
The outgoing member, who served in Parliament under the MK Party banner, alleged that provincial leaders issued media statements aimed at belittling him and undermining the reputation he had built over decades through hard work. He further stated that while he could tolerate attacks from political opponents, he found it difficult to accept such treatment from individuals within the party itself.
Kohane said the internal conflict became impossible to ignore, describing it as a betrayal by those within the movement he voluntarily joined and served to the best of his abilities.
Despite his departure, Kohane expressed gratitude to Zuma and the MK Party for granting him the opportunity to serve in the National Assembly and contribute to the country’s democratic processes.
The resignation comes amid continued internal tensions within the MK Party, which has in recent months faced growing scrutiny over divisions and leadership disputes in several provinces.
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