The musician and reality TV star, whose real name is Eric Kulani Giyani Nkovani, dumped the African National Congress (ANC) to join former President Jacob Zuma’s MK Party in May 2024.

At the time, he cited marginalisation and a lack of appreciation from the ANC after 40 years of service.

He was subsequently sworn in as an MK Party Member of Parliament (MP) on 28 August 2024.

In his resignation letter, seen by MDN News, Papa Penny cited being belittled by the Limpopo MK Party structures.

“It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation letter to you, my President. When I made the decision to join the party, I did so knowing that the struggle to attain the emancipation of our people would come at a cost. And what I did not anticipate, was that such costs would come from attacks, vilification, and the belittling of my person and efforts by those who are in the provincial leadership of the party in Limpopo. Of concern to me are issued media statements that sought to impair my dignity and reputation, which I have built over decades through hard work, especially in a world that was not accommodating of people of my background,” he wrote.

Papa Penny further stated that, as a revolutionary, he could stomach such behaviour if it came from the enemies of the revolution.

“Unfortunately, when such comes from those within our ranks, it is impossible to overlook such a betrayal. I joined the MKP voluntarily, and I have served it to this point to the best of my abilities. Therefore, kindly accept my resignation, and I wish the party well. Lastly, I would like to thank President Zuma for the opportunity that the MKP gave me to be part of the National Parliament and to be of service to our people, and for that, I will forever be grateful,” he wrote.

When Papa Penny left the ANC, he cited a political fallout with senior ANC provincial leaders in Limpopo.

He pointed out a complete lack of multicultural diversity within the top structures of the province and claimed the party actively blocked his efforts to drive community development.

Attempts to get a comment from MK Party National Spokesperson Nhlamuli Ndhlela proved fruitless as his phone rang unanswered.

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