Troops enter townships amid ANC-IFP violence

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.

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.

Leaders met in Durban and issued a joint statement seeking ways to end violence in Natal and the Reef townships.