Nelson Mandela is released

Walter Sisulu and six other veteran leaders left prison, signalling that the government was preparing for negotiations with the liberation movement.

Tens of thousands gathered at Soccer City to hear Walter Sisulu and other veterans publicly reaffirm the liberation movement's programme.

The decision began dismantling a central structure through which the security state had coordinated military influence over civilian government.

De Klerk announced the unbanning of the ANC, PAC and SACP, the release of political prisoners and the opening of a negotiated transition.

The president confirmed that Mandela would leave prison the following day without renouncing the liberation struggle.

Hundreds demanded release so that imprisoned activists would not be excluded while negotiations began outside prison.

Police opened fire on a protest against rent increases and apartheid local authorities, killing people during the fragile opening toward negotiations.

Their first formal talks committed both sides to address political prisoners, exiles and security laws obstructing negotiations.

The government ended emergency rule in most of South Africa, removing a major repressive obstacle while violence and restrictions persisted elsewhere.

The government agreed to address remaining obstacles to negotiation, while the ANC announced suspension of armed actions to advance a political settlement.