Operation Dudula, a South African anti-immigration party, has announced that its leader and co-founder, Zandile Dabula, has resigned from her position and membership, effective May 14, 2026. The party’s secretary-general, Zodwa Booi, confirmed Dabula’s resignation, stating that the organisation had carefully considered her statement and the reasons she had outlined.
Background and Context
Dabula, who has been vocal in her anti-migrant stance, joined Operation Dudula in 2021, and the group was registered as a civic organisation in 2022 before registering as a political party in 2023, when Dabula was voted in as leader, succeeding Nhlanhla “Lux” Dlamini. The party has been vocal about its anti-immigration stance in the country and has led nationwide protests demanding the immediate deportation of illegal immigrants.
According to the South African Government’s website, the country’s immigration laws are designed to promote economic growth and development, while also ensuring that the rights of all individuals, including foreigners, are protected. However, Operation Dudula has argued that the current laws are not effective in addressing the issue of illegal immigration and has campaigned for stricter laws against undocumented foreign nationals in the country.
Impact and Future Plans
Booi stated that the organisation remains united, stable, and fully operational, and that its mission, direction, and political programme remain unchanged. The party’s collective leadership continues to guide its work with discipline and clarity of purpose, and internal processes are underway to ensure continuity in leadership. Operation Dudula has also reaffirmed its commitment to core issues, including immigration, community safety, accountability, economic inclusion, and the dignity of South Africans.
Some of the key issues that Operation Dudula has focused on include:
- Immigration reform: The party has campaigned for stricter laws against undocumented foreign nationals and has demanded the immediate deportation of illegal immigrants.
- Community safety: Operation Dudula has argued that the presence of illegal immigrants poses a threat to community safety and has called for increased policing and security measures.
- Economic inclusion: The party has argued that illegal immigration undermines the economic inclusion of South African citizens and has called for policies that promote the employment of local workers.
As the party moves forward, it will be important to watch how it navigates the complex issues surrounding immigration and community safety, and how it balances its commitment to its core principles with the need to build a broader coalition of support. For more information on Operation Dudula and its policies, visit the Wikipedia page on the organisation.
