The EFF leader Julius Malema passionately called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to consider pardoning his predecessor, Jacob Zuma, if the Commissioner of Correctional Services deems it necessary for Zuma to return to jail.
This plea comes after the Constitutional Court dismissed a bid to overturn the Supreme Court of Appeal’s ruling on Zuma’s release on medical parole, indicating that the former president might have to go back to prison. Malema highlighted the potential repercussions of such a decision, referring to the violent unrest that erupted in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng in 2021, which claimed the lives of over 300 people.
Malema stressed that Ramaphosa’s hands are not tied and urged him to prioritize peace over all else. Acknowledging the significance of upholding the rule of law, Malema emphasized that Zuma has already served a significant sentence, suggesting it is now time to put an end to the ongoing saga.
By granting a pardon, Malema believes the country can take proactive steps to prevent a recurrence of the past unrest and turmoil. With tensions high and emotions running deep, the call for clemency represents an opportunity for the nation to find common ground and move towards a more harmonious future.