35 Years Ago, Fw De Klerk's Speech Paved The Way For Democracy
Exactly 35 years ago today, late-former president FW de Klerk announced sweeping changes at the opening of Parliament in Cape Town.
His speech in 1990 marked the beginning of the negotiated transition from apartheid to constitutional democracy.
It included the unbanning of political organisations including the ANC as well as the release of all political prisoners including Nelson Mandela.
De Klerk also suspended the state of emergency and placed a moratorium on the death penalty.
Related video: Former President FW de Klerk on unbanning of political parties and Mandelas release:
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