Political analysts say it is unlikely that struggle cleric, Allan Boesak, will return to politics again. Boesak earlier today resigned from Congress of the People (COPE) and as a member of the Western Cape Legislature.

University of Cape Town analyst, Zwelethu Jolobe, says Boesak was pressurised to join COPE despite being reluctant to return to politics. Jolobe says Boesak's decision to quit indicates that he has reconsidered his position.

The ANC has called on Boesak to return to the party if he wishes – but,  Jolobe says he does not see Boesak as being an asset to the ruling party any longer.

Boesak joined the ruling party’s breakaway faction COPE in December last year and was the leader of the party in the Western Cape. In a statement, Boesak said from the outset COPE was characterised by faction fighting, strife and pitched battles for political supremacy.

He said the mud in the party was rising and would not subject himself, his family or his calling to the destructive politicking.

COPE spokesperson Phillip Dexter said Boesak’s resignation and his stated reasons for leaving are unfortunate.

Meanwhile, Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu, says he is thrilled that Boesak, has " returned to God's Party". Boesak earlier indicated that he will now focus on civil society work through churches. In a statement, Tutu, says he has been nagging Boesak since the 90's to heed God's call as a pastor and not a politician.