Some sporadic demonstrations broke out on Friday, July 9, in support of Jacob Zuma, imprisoned for three days. Roads were blocked, cars were targeted and police arrested. The clashes centered around Durban, in the KwaZulu-Natal region where the former president is coming. Despite these few incidents, among figures from South African activism, the arrest of Jacob Zuma is seen as a symbol of good health for democracy.
as reported from Johannesburg, Romain Song
When Jacob Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in prison, they spoke of both a very beautiful judgment and a sad day for the history of South Africa. They are members of the “Defend Our Democracy” campaign, the merger of several former anti-apartheid activists including Frank Chikane.
“No one is happy to know that in prison. But under no circumstances could he continue to turn his back on the constitutional court and get away with it for free, he explains.
By agreement, several foundations have welcomed this prison sentence. The Desmond Tutu Foundation saw it as a defense of democracy and the constitution. The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation hopes through its head Neeshan Balton that this condemnation will send a message.
“We hope this sends a strong signal to all corrupt people in this country. When it’s time to face justice, it is useless to be as elusive as the previous president because they may well end up in prison like him, he says.
Although the imprisonment of Jacob Zuma has provoked many reactions for several days, only one voice is missing in the debate: President Cyril Ramaphosa.
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