He was a protégé of the Mandela leadership in the 1950s mass struggles, one of the youngest
among that decade’s treason trialist, a commander of uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) from its inception, facing danger and privation most of his adult life.
He served with acclaim as democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Defence, and won the loyalty of his former enemy when many thought the country could be plunged into civil war or held to ransom by old order apartheid generals.
The fact that Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo selected him for key positions spanning five decades of exacting struggle, testifies to their enormous confidence in him. This fact alone, belies the impression some might have, that he was a war lord who delved in corrupt practices. As a
government minister, he led a modest lifestyle and did not die a wealthy man.
This book, which is now in its third reprint, interlinks engaging interviews with family and friends, comrades-in-arms, and former adversaries. Those who knew him, reveal a warm human being and provide endearing insights into who he was. As a soldier, statesman and leader, he has left behind an astonishing legacy that deserves to be widely known.
Some of the reviewers of ‘Comrade and Commander’ said: "A must read for those who traversed the path of liberation, and those seeking insight into the movement and military wing in particular." Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi (Chancellor at Nelson Mandela University, gender activist and former member of uMkhonto weSizwe).
"Many who read this book will not think or feel the same way about Joe Modise as before." Janet Cherry (Professor, Nelson Mandela University).
“A ground-breaking exploration. In a master stroke, this book not only captures Modise’s narrative but also weaves in the voices of those who intimately knew him, providing profound lessons and insights into the national liberation struggle.” Mandla Radebe (Professor, University of Johannesburg School of Communication, and Director of the Centre for Data and Digital Communications).
“This is a masterpiece of oral history. Joe Modise emerges as a visionary leader, in the words of those who shared with him the years of sacrifice.” Victoria Brittain (British anti-war activist, journalist, author, and playwright).
The authors will be in discussion with Dr Ongama Mtimka of the Raymond Mhlaba Centre at Nelson Mandela University. Members of the extended Modise family will be present and share their views in what should be a highly interesting event with lively discussion that sheds insight into the life of this important soldier, statesman, and Minister of Defence.
Copies of “Comrade and Commander” will be on sale by Fogarty’s Bookshop.