Kenny worked in Parliament under EFF but now working for Pakistanis

Kenny Motsamai’s Journey From 27 Years in Prison to Shifting Political Allegiances

The story of Kenny Motsamai, a former political prisoner who spent more than 27 years behind bars during South Africa’s apartheid era, has drawn attention to the difficulties of reintegration and his changing political affiliations following his release.

Motsamai, now 61, was released on parole in 2013 after spending decades in prison. His case later received renewed public attention when the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led by Julius Malema, campaigned for his release and supported his transition back into society.

Following his release, the EFF reportedly offered Motsamai an opportunity to work within Parliament, an arrangement intended to help him rebuild his life after spending such a significant period outside the mainstream workforce.

His prolonged imprisonment had limited his opportunities to gain conventional work experience, making his reintegration into society particularly challenging.

However, Motsamai’s relationship with the EFF reportedly deteriorated over time. Accounts surrounding his political journey claim that he later made insulting remarks about Malema, despite the party’s earlier support for his release and employment opportunity.

His political affiliations also changed within a relatively short period. After initially joining the EFF, he reportedly moved to the Patriotic Alliance (PA) before becoming associated with the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party).

The developments have raised questions about his political direction and the challenges of rebuilding a stable life after decades of incarceration.

Reports also suggest that Motsamai is currently involved in a small business selling gas stoves to Pakistani clients, a significant departure from the political environment in which he briefly found himself after leaving prison. However, details about his current employment and business activities have not been independently verified.

His experience has also reopened discussions about how political organisations support former prisoners, particularly those who spent many years behind bars and require assistance with employment, education and social reintegration.

While political support can provide former prisoners with opportunities to rebuild their lives, long-term rehabilitation often requires more than an immediate employment offer.

Motsamai’s journey therefore highlights the complicated relationship between political solidarity, personal independence and the difficulties of adjusting to life after decades in prison.

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