Former political activist Tlhoriso Phake has paid tribute to the late human rights lawyer, Priscilla Jana, who reportedly died at the age of 76 on Saturday, 10 October.

As a young fighter against apartheid, Phake said he is grateful to have been represented by Jana in 1976 when, at the age of 22, he was arrested as one of the leaders of the students movement.

Phake, 64, who also served a 10-year sentence on Robben Island said, “This legend has played quite a significant role in fighting apartheid. She represented me after I was arrested in Kliptown (Soweto) by the security forces at the time.”

He added Jana dedicated her life to making sure that those who were defenceless were helped, playing a significant part to make sure that an oppressive regime was defeated.

“We are very grateful for the work she has done to help to liberate us from the bounds of oppression. May her soul rest in peace,” Phake added.