The ANC and government sign the Pretoria Minute

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.

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 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.

The Special Committee against Apartheid expressed concern about killings, detentions and arrests during the opening political process.

ANC, UDF and COSATU representatives demanded government action as township killings threatened peaceful change.