File Aa1.2.2.1 - Representations 1970-1971

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ZA HPRA A2084-A-Aa-Aa1-Aa1.2-Aa1.2.2-Aa1.2.2.1

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Representations 1970-1971

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  • 1970-1971 (Creation)

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22/11/1970: letter from Gladstone Williams (real name Vuyisile Mjadu), Barberton Prison to Griffiths Mxenge concerning murders of prisoners by warders; there follows an exchange of correspondence between Helen Suzman and Griffiths Mxenge during 1971. Subjects include assaults on prisoners at Leeukop Prison where he had been jailed, exiled former Robben Island prisoners who are now living "in places one would be tempted to call concentration camps" and why people released from prison are then banned; re his own banning order, due to expire on 28/02/1971; refers to his arrest in 1966 and the attitude of authorities that prevented him attending classes at the University of Natal; Mxenge goes on to say that he fears his ban will be re-imposed and mentions that the Special Branch are "mean and vindictive towards me". He mentions that he was refused residence permits for both Botswana and Zambia and that he and his wife [Victoria Mxenge] are considering going to London if he is banned again.

HS replies on 22/01/1971 that going to the UK might be a good idea "judging by my past conversations with the Minister about you" and suggests that he writes to Sir Robert Birley; on 02/02/1971 GM refers to Helen Suzman visit to Robben Island saying that he had been told that "immediately after you were there prison conditions improved. Of course they deteriorated afterwards." GM says re Helen Suzman: "I often wonder what our country would look like without a courageous Mrs. Helen Suzman" and "As long as we have people like you the future of this country is bright." When his ban was not re-imposed GM writes to Helen Suzman "I am greatly indebted to you for the courageous manner in which you fought my case.".

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