Afrika Mayibuye Movement deputy president Nolubabalo Mcinga has dismissed rumours that she is planning to ditch the newly formed party led by Floyd Shivambu to start her own women-focused political movement.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, Mcinga — who was unveiled last month as Shivambu’s deputy — said the reports were false and misleading.
“False reports have circulated suggesting that I, Nolubabalo Mcinga, am forming a new political party with members of the Afrika Mayibuye Movement,” she said. “I wish to clarify that I remain a full and active member of the Movement, serving as its Deputy President and founder. I have not resigned, nor have I been dismissed from my role.”
Internal wranglings unfolding
Mcinga confirmed that she had been removed from certain internal WhatsApp groups but said she had since responded to a letter from the party outlining what she described as “false allegations.”
“I am not forming a new party with anyone from Mayibuye but have been approached by individuals seeking advice on establishing one. If and when anything formal arises, I will make an official announcement through a press conference,” she said. “For now, I will await the outcome of internal processes.”
Right Royal mess
Mcinga — also known as Queen Khazeka — made headlines years ago as the runaway bride of AbaThembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo. The pair were traditionally married but went their separate ways after just three months.
Speaking to Sunday World in September, Mcinga said she fled the royal household “unannounced” after enduring what she described as a toxic environment.
“I have moved on. I will always have respect for the king,” she said. “I was deeply disturbed by this matter. I was working hard and suddenly found myself with a massive title of queen in a complicated environment. It brought more confusion than clarity.”
According to Mcinga, the King did not pay lobola as he opposed the custom. Their relationship moved quickly — from meeting to proposal within three weeks — culminating in a modest ceremony at Gonubie Baptist Church in the Eastern Cape.
Three months later, she had escaped the royal home. Before joining the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, Mcinga served as an EFF MP in the National Council of Provinces, where she sat on key committees including Security & Justice, Agriculture, Land Reform & Mineral Resources, and International Relations.
Political home
She told Sunday World that the Mayibuye Movement resonated deeply with her values of social justice, youth empowerment, and transformation.
“I represent a generation that refuses to inherit broken systems without fighting for transformation,” she said at the time.
Her recognition alongside Norma Mngoma at the African Women Achievers Awards in Zimbabwe earlier this year further cemented her growing influence in both political and activist circles.
For now, Mcinga insists her focus remains within the Mayibuye fold — unless fate or political persuasion dictate otherwise.
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