The African National Congress (ANC) extends best wishes to its Former President, and Former President of the Republic of South Africa, Comrade Jacob Zuma, on his 78th birthday.
Comrade Jacob Zuma has played an important role in the liberation struggle, and continues to serve the ANC and the people of South Africa with humility and dedication. Born on 12 April 1942 at Nkandla, in Northen Kwazulu-Natal, Comrade Jacob Zuma was unable to attend school. He taught himself to read by looking at the books of children who attended school.
He joined the ANC Youth League and the South African Congress of Trade Unions (SACTU) in 1959, and began attending ANC and union meetings and political education classes. After the banning of the ANC in 1960, Comrade Zuma became involved in the activities of the ANC’s military wing, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK).
Comrade Zuma was detained, and held in solitary confinement for 90 days. On 12 August 1963, at a tender age of 21, Comrade Zuma was convicted and sentenced to 10 years in prison for conspiring to overthrow the government.
Comrade Zuma has served the ANC and the masses of our people with sheer determination. As a loyal member of the ANC, he continues to serve the ANC even today.
The ANC wishes him well on his birthday, and further asks him to remain committed to the revolution and serving the people.
The ANC also wishes to urge our people to join hands, and stand together in fighting against the Coronavirus which is deadly and real.
The biggest gift we can all give to President Zuma is to adhere to lockdown regulations even during the extended period especially by staying at home, maintaining social distance and going out if and when is necessary to do so.
We also wish to send our deepest condolences to those who have succumbed to this deadly virus, and wish those who are infected and affected a speedy recovery.
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ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS
Enquiries:
Pule Mabe
National Spokesperson
071 623 4975
