Fana Mokoena, the seasoned South African actor who recently stepped down from his role as a Member of Parliament with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has announced his return to acting. This decision follows his October 17 resignation, with a Parliament spokesperson confirming that Speaker Thoko Didiza received Mokoena’s resignation letter.
“We can confirm that the Speaker is in receipt of a letter of resignation from Mr. Mokoena,” stated the spokesperson.
Mokoena reportedly submitted his resignation to EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini prior to former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s departure from the party. Mkhwebane also left her MP position just a day before Mokoena’s announcement.
Mokoena’s Political Journey
Mokoena’s political career began in 2014 when he was elected as an EFF MP, representing the party in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP). In 2016, he transitioned to the National Assembly, where he served until 2020. Following a brief hiatus, Mokoena returned to Parliament in June this year, participating in the Portfolio Committees on Trade, Industry, Competition, and Sport, Arts, and Culture.
Both Mokoena and Mkhwebane’s exits mark a growing trend of notable figures leaving the EFF, with many reportedly gravitating towards the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.
Growing Exits from the EFF
Political analysts suggest that EFF members, including Mokoena and Mkhwebane, are increasingly drawn to the MK Party due to ideological differences. According to IOL News, analysts point to a lack of constructive political strategy, escalating racial tensions, and governance challenges as reasons behind the EFF departures.
University of the Free State political analyst, Professor Theo Neethling, noted that a lack of commitment to governance and constructive politics could be prompting these exits. Analyst Goodenough Mashego added that the EFF’s shift from leftist principles has left room for the MK Party to attract members from marginalized communities.
A Return to the Screen
Amid rumors of his potential affiliation with the MK Party, Mokoena recently took to social media to reveal his next move—returning to acting. On X (formerly Twitter), he shared his excitement about reuniting with fellow actors Desmond Dube and Warren Masemola.
“I’m honored to be working with my good friends Desmond Dube and Warren Masemola again. Two of the most simmered artists in this proud land. Good brothers come together again. It’s always a blast. Salute,” Mokoena tweeted, along with photos of the actors.
The post garnered enthusiastic responses, with fans applauding his return to acting while some questioned his reasons for leaving the EFF.
Mokoena’s Acting Legacy
Mokoena, originally from Kroonstad in the Free State, graduated with a drama degree from the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 1991. He began his career in theater, taking up a role at Durban’s Playhouse Company. His television debut came in 1994 with a role in The Line, followed by his portrayal of Dr. Mandla Sithole in the popular soap opera Generations in 1998.
Over the years, Mokoena has taken on roles in both local and international productions, including Dangerous Ground (1997), Yizo Yizo (1999), and Hotel Rwanda (2004), where he played General Augustin Bizimungi. He has also appeared in high-profile films like World War Z, alongside Brad Pitt, and portrayed Govan Mbeki in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.
Mokoena’s 2021 role on Scandal! as a family patriarch further showcased his versatile talent before he shifted focus to politics. Now, his return signals a new chapter in an already accomplished career.
Source: IOL
