Veteran saddened by prospect of Zuma going back to jail
STRUGGLE veteran and former political prisoner Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim has expressed his sadness that his longtime friend Jacob Zuma may be jailed.
The former International Relations and Co-operation Deputy Minister, 84, said it was unfortunate that the Constitutional Court sentenced Zuma to another prison term for contempt of court.
“He played an important role, an inspiring role in the liberation struggle, in prison, in exile and during the negotiation process. It is sad to see what has happened to him,” Ebrahim said.
In an interview with Independent Media, he recalled travelling together with Zuma to Robben Island, although they were not in the same trial.
The pair met in Colesberg prison when their vehicles stopped overnight.
According to Ebrahim, Zuma displayed all the characteristics of leadership and was very disciplined.
“He had a close association with Steven Dlamini and Harry Gwala. He was politically well-groomed by them,” he recalled.
The duo shared communal cells from time to time as prisoners were often moved around at the time of their incarceration.
“When we got to Robben Island, of course, he had not been to formal school. We then assisted him in getting basic education, particularly Harry Gwala, who was a teacher by profession.”
The former president was enrolled for primary school education and then advanced rapidly until he could read and write.
“We could see how he advanced in a quick manner. He was extremely disciplined,” Ebrahim said.
Zuma, who was against ill-discipline by fellow comrades, became the chairperson of ANC’s political committee that prepared political education for ANC prisoners on Robben Island.
Asked if he has spoken to Zuma since his sentencing and what advice he would give him, Ebrahim said it was Zuma’s decision how to handle the situation he finds himself in.
“He must do the right thing. He must do so according to his conscience. Unfortunately, I have not had contact with him for a long time,” he said.