how do i disconnect the e brake cable from the axle?

Do I have to remove all the rear brake components??

Should be able to just remove the drums and then pop the cable ends off the parking brake actuation arms with a screwdriver or other small prying tool. Just make sure you don't have the brake set when you try this. If it's still too tight to get them off, use the parking brake cable adjuster under the vehicle to give yourself some more slack.

If your talking about taking the cables out of the backing plates try using a 13mm or 1/2" box end wrench slid over the cable anchor to release the fingers from the backing plate.

Your most likely going to have to remove the adjuster to get in at the cable end.