The ANC and government adopt the Groote Schuur Minute

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.

Mandela walked free from Victor Verster Prison after twenty-seven years and addressed a mass rally in Cape Town, affirming democratic struggle and negotiation.

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.

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.

The state deployed troops southeast of Johannesburg as conflict between ANC and IFP supporters intensified during the uncertain transition.

The leaders met as attacks spread to Soweto after armed hostel residents assaulted train passengers, threatening the negotiation process.

The organizations cited forged pamphlets and other evidence suggesting elements of the security forces were aggravating township conflict.