Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, has categorically denied reports that she plans to join the Umkhonto weSizwe Party. The long-serving African National Congress (ANC) member and former presidential contender addressed the speculation during her visit to the University of Limpopo on Wednesday.

“I’m a very honest and open person; if I were [joining the MK Party], I would have told you,” Dlamini-Zuma stated emphatically. “If I’m saying I’m in the ANC, I’m in the ANC. Those who are speculating, I don’t know… it is their wish maybe, but it is not going to come through.”

The rumors gained traction after Dlamini-Zuma, the ANC’s longest-serving Member of Parliament, declined nomination to become an MP after the 2024 general elections. Her imminent resignation from the National Assembly had fueled speculation that she could resign from the ANC and join the Umkhonto weSizwe Party, a newcomer on the political scene that has attracted several former ANC members, including former president Jacob Zuma.

However, Dlamini-Zuma clarified her decision, stating, “I’m just saying let other younger ones come in. That doesn’t mean that I’m not going to work. I’m still going to do what I did before I went to Parliament. I worked for youth, for women long before I went to Parliament, so I will continue doing that.”

The minister, who also serves as the chancellor of the University of Limpopo, was at the institution to launch the Digital Innovation Lab, reaffirming her commitment to creating opportunities for young people.