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History |
Both the ANC and the PAC take up anti-pass campaigns.
1960
The government banned the ANC and the PAC, declared a state of emergency and arrested thousands of Congress and PAC activists
1960
Fietas, Johannesburg: Dr. Yusuf Dadoo is exiled.
1960
The number of economically active women in South Africa is at 15.5%
Fatima Meer organizes night vigils against detentions without trial.
Adelaide Tambo leaves South Africa and works as courier for her husband in London.
Detained under State of Emergency:Frances Baard, Hilda Bernstein, Sonia Bunting,Lillian Ngoyi, Annie Silinga, Josie Palmer.
Sarah Carneson goes underground
1960
Extension of University Education Amendment Act No 32:
Amended the extension of University Education Act No 45 of 1959 and the University of Fort Hare Transfer Act No 64 of 1959.
Assent gained: 7 April 1960; commencement date not found.
Repealed by s 21 of the Tertiary Education Act No 66 of 1988.
1960
Proclamation No 400 and Proclamation No 413:
Emergency regulations contained in Proclamations 400 and 413 were issued under pre-union statutes (Dugard 1978: 110). Proclamation 400 was only repealed in 1977 by the Public Security Act No 30.
1960
South African United Front was officially launched in London by ANC, PAC, SAIC and SWANU. (SWAPO accepted membership but withdrew soon after). This followed consultations since April 1960 in Dar es Salaam and Accra between ANC and PAC and at Conference of Independent African States in Addis Ababa in June 1960.
1960
(edit) Sometimes called the 10th Xhosa war, the political campaigns of the popular Black resistance in the 1960's were proof that the British conquest (upon which the White minority state was built) was not viewed as irreversible.
1960
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) expels South Africa.
South African Women's football starts.
1960
1 January
Minister of Bantu Education assumed control of University College of Fort Hare.
African students prohibited from attending formerly "open universities" excepting the University of South Africa and Natal Medical School.
1960
24 January
Rioting by Africans in Cato Manor (Durban) resulted in the death of nine policemen. Commissioner of Police subsequently testified that South African police were meeting increasing hostility from Africans in the routine performance of their duties. (New York Times)
1960
February
The Pondoland rebellion: an uprising of peasants in the Transkei.
1960
February
Protests and open rebellion break out in Pondoland.
1960
February
Albert Luthuli warns White South Africans that resentment among Africans is building up.
1960
3 February
British Prime Minister MacMillan stated before the South African Parliament that Britain could not support South Africa's racial policies.
1960
6 February - 12 February
Sisulu attends a secret meeting of the ANC at Macosa house, Johannesburg, with Ahmed Kathrada.
1960
March
The African National Congress announces that its anti-pass campaign will start at the end of March 1960.
1960
March - April
Nation-wide strikes in response to banning of the ANC.
1960
20 March
Rioting and arson in Pondoland.
1960
21 March
At Sharpeville the police opened fire on the unarmed and peaceful crowd, killing 69 and wounding 186.
1960
21 March
Sharpeville Massacre: In the wake of Sharpeville, African students loyal to the African National Congress (ANC) establish the African Students' Association (ASA), Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) sympathizing students form the African Students' Union of South Africa (ASUSA), and those loyal to the Non-European Unity Movement (NEUM) form other organisations in the Cape and Natal. However none of these organisations survive long, since identification with banned movements is hazardous, and university authorities are hostile to student political groups. Non-cooperation between peers in different student political groupings makes matters worse.
1960
21 March
Police shooting at peaceful demonstrators in Sharpeville against pass laws for Africans: 69 men, women and children were killed and about 200 wounded.
1960
21 March
(edit) The PAC mounts its anti-pass campaign. Police at Sharpeville open fire on peaceful protesters killing sixty-nine and injuring 180. In the Western Cape, police open fire and kill two people. The PAC retaliates by calling a work stoppage that lasts for two weeks. Ninety five percent of the workforce goes on strike. PAC youth take control of the Cape Town townships of Langa and Nyanga, setting up roadblocks and distributing food. 30 000 residents of Black townships of Cape Town march on Caledon Square, led by Philip Kgosana, but the march is thwarted when Kgosana is tricked into calling it off on the promise of top level negotiators. The state calls in the military and the marines, the townships are cordoned off and the situation is brought under Nationalist control. A state of emergency is declared, thousands are arrested throughout the country and the ANC and PAC are declared banned organisations. Mandela is among those imprisoned.
1960
21 March
Sharpeville massacre.
1960
22 March
Verwoerd told the South African Parliament that the riots could in no way be described as a reaction against the Government's apartheid policy and had nothing to do with passes. Such disturbances were a periodic phenomenon and had nothing to do with poverty and low wages. He further stated that his first duty was to thank the South African police for the courageous, efficient manner in which they had handled the situation. The police at times found it difficult to control themselves, but they had done so in an exemplary manner.
He announced that 132 members of the Pan Africanist Congress, including Robert Sobukwe, were being held in Johannesburg and would be charged with sedition.
1960
23 March
Robert Sobukwe, President of the Pan Africanist Congress, Kitchener Leballo, its national secretary, and 11 others charged with incitement to riot.
1960
24 March
The Government banned all public meetings of more than 12 persons until June 30 in an effort to disrupt the wave of protests against the pass laws.
1960
25 March
Representatives of 29 African and Asian members requested an urgent meeting of the Security Council to consider "the situation arising out of the large-scale killings of unarmed and peaceful demonstrators against racial discrimination and segregation in the Union of South Africa".
1960
27 March
The Commissioner of Police announced that the pass laws were to be suspended until a normal situation had been restored, an occasion taken by Chief A. J. Luthuli to burn his pass. The Police Commissioner said that the pass laws were not being suspended to appease the unfounded protests of Bantu agitators, but because the jails could no longer accommodate the many Africans who presented themselves for arrest by openly violating the pass laws. (London Times)
1960
28 March
ANC called a nation-wide stay-at-home in protest at the Sharpeville massacre. Pass books were burned in countless bonfires.
O. R. Tambo left South Africa illegally on the instruction of the ANC to carry on work outside the country.
1960
28 March
Albert Luthuli publicly burns his pass.
1960
30 March
The Security Council began consideration of the situation in South Africa, under an agenda item entitled: "The situation arising out of the large-scale killings of unarmed and peaceful demonstrators against racial discrimination and segregation in the Union of South Africa".
1960
30 March
At the request of 29 African and Asian Member States, the Security Council began consideration of the situation in South Africa, under an agenda item entitled: "The situation arising out of the large-scale killings of unarmed and peaceful demonstrators against racial discrimination and segregation in the Union of South Africa".
Regime declared a State of Emergency and arrested over 2,000 people.
At lunchtime, 30,000 Africans from surrounding African townships marched into the centre of Cape Town and demanded an interview with the Minister of Justice. The Chief of Security promised to approach the Minister and the crowds marched back out of Cape Town.
Immediately after they had dispersed, Erasmus announced in Parliament that a a state of emergency had been declared in 80 of the 300 magisterial districts, including every important urban area, and that 18 regiments of the Citizens Force had been mobilised to supplement the police, army and air force.
1960
30 March
Albert Luthuli is detained and held until August, when he is tried and sentenced to a fine of 100 pounds and a six-month suspended sentence.
1960
30 March
Unlawful Organizations Act used to ban the African National Congress (ANC) and Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC).
1960
31 March
Four more regiments of the Citizens Force were mobilised. Legal authorities in Johannesburg stated the emergency regulations created a situation of virtual martial law.
One of the basic reasons for declaring the Emergency was to obtain a return to work by the African population. Under the emergency regulations, refusal to work was punishable by a fine of $1400, five years in prison, or both.
1960
1 April
The Security Council, in its first action on South Africa, adopted resolution 134 (1960) deploring the policies and actions of the South African Government which had given rise to a loss of life of so many Africans and led to international friction, and called upon that Government to abandon its policies of apartheid and racial discrimination. It requested the Secretary-General, in consultation with the South African Government, "to make such arrangements as would adequately help in upholding the purposes and principles of the [United Nations] Charter." The vote on the resolution was 9 in favour and 2 abstentions (France and the United Kingdom).
1960
1 April
Security Council, in its first action on South Africa, adopted resolution 134 (1960) deploring the policies and actions of the South African Government which had given rise to a loss of life of so many Africans and led to international friction, and called upon that Government to abandon its policies of apartheid and racial discrimination.
Proclamation of a State of Emergency in thirty-one more magisterial districts.
Ten thousand Indians and two thousand Coloureds ordered to vacate Pietermaritzburg.
1960
2 April
The Bishop of Johannesburg, Ambrose Reeves, took refuge in Swaziland following continued massive arrests of persons of all races.
The New York Times stated that the most conservative official estimates placed the membership of the ANC and PAC at 70,000.
1960
6 April
The pass system was revived.
1960
7 April
Unlawful Organisations Act No 34:
Provided for organisations threatening public order or the safety of the public to be declared unlawful. The ANC and the PAC were immediately declared unlawful.
Commenced: 7 April 1960
Repealed by s 73 of the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982.
1960
7 April
The Extension of University Education Amendment Act, Act No 34, bans Black students from attending white universities.
1960
8 April
The African National Congress (ANC) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) are banned in South Africa.
1960
8 April
Passage of the Unlawful Organisations Act.
Banning of the African National Congress and the Pan Africanist Congress. Justice Minister Erasmus announced the banning of ANC and PAC for a minimum of one year and stated that there could be no political organisation among urbanised Africans.
1960
9 April
Attempted assassination of Prime Minister Verwoerd in Johannesburg resulted in serious wounds in the face. His assailant, a white farmer, was promptly described as mentally unstable.
1960
19 April
First interim report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dag Hammarskjold, pursuant to the Security Council resolution of 1 April.
1960
4 May
Robert Sobukwe, President of the Pan Africanist Congress, was sentenced to three years' imprisonment for incitement of Africans to urge the repeal of pass laws. He refused to appeal, as he had refused the aid of an attorney, on the grounds that the court had no jurisdiction over him because it could not be considered either a court of law or a court of justice.
1960
6 May
The Government stated in Parliament that 18,000 persons had been arrested and detained since the proclamation of the emergency.
1960
25 May
Tribal clashes continued to take place in Pondoland (Transkei) between supporters and opponents of the African territorial authorities. 29 Africans were killed, 50 wounded.
1960
June - July
Boycotts of South African goods were being implemented in many countries: labour organisations refused to service South African cargoes
1960
June
Representation of Africans in Parliament ended.
1960
June - May
Boycotts of South African goods were being implemented in many countries. Labour organisations refused to service South African cargoes.
1960
15 June - 24 June
Second Conference of Independent African States, at Addis Ababa, called for sanctions against South Africa.
1960
15 June - 24 June
Second Conference of Independent African States, at Addis Ababa, called for sanctions against South Africa.
1960
14 July
Communist Party of South Africa (CPSA), announced its functioning as the SACP, operating underground, after its dissolution in 1950.
1960
31 August
The state of emergency was lifted. 10,500 opponents of the Government were still being detained.
1960
5 October
In a referendum limited to white voters only, 52 percent of South African voters favoured the establishment of a Republic.
White South Africans voted that South Africa should become a Republic (850,000 in favour; 776,000 opposed). Prime Minister Verwoerd subsequently told British Prime Minister MacMillan that South Africa wanted to remain in the Commonwealth.
1960
11 October
Second interim report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the Security Council resolution of 1 April.
1960
23 November
A police convoy was ambushed in Pondoland.
1960
26 November
A week of violence continued in which it was officially estimated that 200 huts had been burned. The Botha Sigcau High School was closed following threats by Pondo who objected to government education.
1960
30 November
The Government closed all lines of communication with five districts in Pondoland and reintroduced emergency regulations for the second time in eight months.
Paramount Chief of the Zulus, Cyprian Bhepezulu, and 12 Kraals occupied by his followers were attacked by hostile Africans for their support of the Government's "betterment schemes".
1961
Death of Alice Sisulu, Walter's mother.
1961
All-in African Conference held in Pietermaritzburg. Calls for a national convention are made, so as to decide on a new constitution.
1961
The ANC took up arms against the South African Government, goes underground and continues to operate secretly.
1961
Fietas, Johannesburg: The Group Areas Development Board begins to provide public housing in Lenasia.
1961
Urban Blacks Council Act No 79:
The first provision for black ‘self-government’ in the urban townships. Assent gained: 30 June 1961; commencement date not found.
Repealed by s 14 of the Community Councils Act No 125 of 1977.
1961
When Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) came into being Phyllis’ work becomes all the more crucial. She joins the CPSA
1961
(edit) The ANC and the PAC establish religious and welfare front organisations. ANC and SACP members set up the armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe. There is a strict undertaking that life will not be endangered, only installations will be attacked. A central high command, with regional commands are set up under the direction of Mandela. The first explosion occurs on 16 December in Durban, followed by explosions in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The president general of the ANC, Chief Albert Luthuli is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize a week before the first explosion.
Zindziswa is born to Nelson and Winnie Mandela.
1961
FIFA suspends the Football Association of South Africa (FASA).
FASA includes some Black players within its structure. African, Indian, and Coloured officials in the anti-apartheid South African Soccer Federation (SASF) form the anti-racist professional South African Soccer League (SASL). SABFA (the South African Bantu Football Association) launches a National Professional Soccer League (NPSL), which shuts down the following year.
1961
Port Elizabeth Bus Boycott.
1961
6 January - 12 January
The United Nations Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjold, visited South Africa. He reported to the Security Council on 23 January that in the course of his discussions with the Prime Minister of South Africa, "so far no mutually acceptable arrangement" had been found on racial policies in South Africa.
1961
23 January
Report of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dag Hammarskjold, on implementation of Security Council resolution of 1 April 1960. He stated that in the course of his discussions with the Prime Minister of South Africa, "so far no mutually acceptable arrangement" had been found on racial policies in South Africa.
1961
27 January
Justice Minister Erasmus told the Assembly that during the recent disturbances (November-December 1962) in Pondoland, 4,769 Africans, 2 Europeans and 2 others had been taken into custody.
1961
February
Delegations of South Africa United Front visited capitals of Commonwealth States to lobby for expulsion of South Africa.
1961
26 February
Announcement of the continuation of current defence relations with the United Kingdom.
1961
March
The accused in the Treason trial are found not guilty, after a four year long trial.
1961
March - April
Debate on apartheid at the resumed 15th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. African and Asian delegations pressed for sanctions against South Africa.
The representative of UK said on 5 April that while the importance attached by UK to Article 2 (7) of the UN Charter remained undiminished, it regarded apartheid as being now so exceptional as to be sui generis, and his delegation felt able to consider proposals on the question of the merits.
The Special Political Committee recommended two draft resolutions: an African resolution calling for specific measures and another by 5 Asian countries asking all States to consider separate and collective action as was open to them. In the Plenary on 13 April, the key paragraph of the African draft was voted separately and received 42 votes in favour and 34 against, with 21 abstentions, and was not adopted. The sponsors then withdrew the resolution.
The Asian draft - which condemned apartheid a "reprehensible and repugnant to human dignity" - was adopted by 96 to 1, with 0 abstentions as resolution 1598 (XV). Only Portugal voted against. The United Kingdom voted for a resolution against apartheid for the first time. (India, sponsor of this resolution, voted in favour of both drafts).
1961
March
The remaining 30 accused in the Treason Trial are acquitted of charges of treason
1961
2 March
The Bishop of Johannesburg, Ambrose Reeves, resigned after having been deported from South Africa in September 1960 for his strong condemnation of the Government, particularly at the time of Sharpeville and the subsequent emergency. Reeves' action was vigorously supported by the Archbishop of Cape Town, Joost de Blank.
1961
12 March
The International Confederation of Free Trade Unions submitted a memorandum to the UN General Assembly calling for economic sanctions against South Africa.
1961
15 March
Following strong opposition in the Conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers, Dr. Verwoerd announced the withdrawal of South Africa from the Commonwealth "in the interests of South Africa's honour and dignity".
1961
15 March
Following three days of bitter opposition in the Conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers, Dr. Verwoerd announced the withdrawal of South Africa from the Commonwealth "in the interests of South Africa's honour and dignity", and provoked a strong reaction amongst the English-speaking white population. Dismay was voiced by the latter and by leaders of the industrial community.
Sections of the Afrikaaner population said the country was better off outside "the Kaffir Commonwealth".
Albert Luthuli, former President of the banned African National Congress, said in regard to the Commonwealth Prime Ministers' strong opposition to apartheid: "I am overjoyed".
The Synod of 350 delegates of the Dutch Reformed Church endorsed the Church's current policy of racial separation. The Synod expressed support for the Government's policy of apartheid and asked that its implementation be expedited. The Church stated its conviction that its work would be handicapped if it allowed itself to be diverted from its proven way for the sake of world opinion.
Professor A.S. Geyser, who had queried whether Article 3 of the Church's principles, which discriminates between white and black, was in line with the Scriptures, was bitterly attacked. The Chairman of the Synod condemned his attitude as arrogant.
1961
15 March
Prime Minister H.F. Verwoerd withdraws South Africa’s application for continued membership of the Commonwealth following bitter opposition in the Conference of Commonwealth Ministers.
1961
25 March - 26 March
All-in African Conference - with 1,400 delegates from 145 religious, cultural, peasant, intellectual and political bodies - held in Pietermaritzburg. Conference called for a national convention of elected representatives of all adult men and women, without regard to race, colour or creed. The Republic, it declared, "rests on force to perpetuate the tyranny of minority". If the Government ignored the demand for a national convention, the people were called upon to organise mass demonstrations on the eve of the proclamation of the Republic. Mr. Nelson Mandela was appointed secretary of the National Action Council.
1961
29 March
Sisulu and other accused were found not guilty on a charge of High Treason, in the special court at Pretoria, and released.
1961
29 March
Twenty-eight persons (22 Africans, 3 Indians, 2 Whites, 1 Coloured) on trial for high treason since 1956 were found not guilty and discharged. The three judges unanimously said there was no evidence of communist infiltration into the African National Congress. "On the evidence presented and our findings, it is impossible for this court to come to the conclusion that the ANC had acquired or adopted a policy to overthrow the State by violence".
Hours later the Government retaliated by renewing the ban on the ANC and PAC for another year, placing a nation-wide ban on all meetings, and breaking up the African conference in Pietermaritzburg.
1961
29 March
Twenty-eight persons, including Albert Luthuli and Walter Sisulu, on trial for high treason since 1956, are found not guilty and discharged. The three judges of the High Court in Pietermaritzburg unanimously find there is no evidence of communist infiltration into the African National Congress. Hours later the Government retaliates by renewing the ban on the African National Congress and Pan Africanist Congress for another year.
1961
30 March
African and Asian delegations at the UN pressed for sanctions against South Africa.
1961
April
Conference of the Nationalist Organisations of the Portuguese Territories (CONCP) founded in Rabat.
1961
1 April
Robben Island turned into a prison.
1961
5 April
United Kingdom Government announced support for a UN General Assembly resolution against apartheid for the first time.
1961
6 April
Renewal of the ban on the African National Congress and the Pan Africanist Congress.
1961
13 April
The UN General Assembly condemned South African racial discrimination as "reprehensible and repugnant to human dignity" by vote of 95-1.
1961
27 April
Walter Sisulu and his home at Orlando West are searched and various documents are seized, in which blacks are instigated to strike on 29, 30 and 31 May 1961. A case in compliance with Section 2 (A) of the Act 8/1953 (Instigation) is made against him.
1961
3 May
All police leave was cancelled in anticipation of expected strikes at the end of May.
Defence legislation amended to enable use of the armed forces for the suppression of internal disorder and reorganise the police so as to co-ordinate its command headquarters with that of the military.
Nationalist Party won three by-elections with a larger majority than in the 1958 general election.
1961
12 May
The General Law Amendment Act provided for detention of persons for twelve days without bail, trial without jury in cases of murder and arson, and resting the proof of innocence rests on the accused.
1961
19 May
General Law Amendment Act No 39:
Provided for twelve-day detention. Amended:
• the Arms and Ammunition Act 28 of 1937 regarding the issuing and ancellation of firearm licences;
•the 1955 Criminal Procedure Act regarding powers of the Attorney-Generalto prohibit release on bail or otherwise; and
•the 1956 Riotous Assemblies Act.
Commenced: 19 May 1961
Sections 6 and 7 repealed by the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982.
1961
29 May
Nation-wide general strike. It was reported that only 10-15 percent of the labour force struck work. In Johannesburg, however, there was high African absenteeism. More than 40 per cent of the Rand's huge labour force stayed at home. Fifty per cent of the Asians were out at Durban and 25 per cent of the Cape Coloured.
A split developed within the African leadership at the last moment. Nelson Mandela and the ANC had taken the initiative in organising the strike, but leaders of the banned PAC called on non-Whites to ignore it.
1961
29 May - 31 May
National Stay-At-Home.
1961
30 May
The union of South Africa officially ceases to exist, at midnight
1961
31 May
South Africa is declared a republic, independent and outside the commonwealth. C.R. Swart, the former Governor-General, is sworn in as the first President of the Republic of South Africa.
1961
31 May
South Africa withdrew from the Commonwealth and proclaimed itself a Republic.
1961
31 May
Country placed on a war footing to smash the nation-wide strike called to protest against the establishment of the so-called Republic of South Africa.
South Africa withdrew from the Commonwealth and proclaimed itself a Republic.
1961
4 June
The Iraqi Foreign Minister, Hassim Jawad, announces that Iraq will not recognize the government of South Africa because of its apartheid policies.
1961
14 June
South Africa:Signs agreement with Great Britain in regard to guaranteed preferences on the British market.
1961
21 June
South Africa:Signs multilateral protocol on international civil aviation.
1961
26 June
South Africa:Signs International Labour Organisation Convention, no. 116, concerning the partial revision of conventions adopted.
1961
26 June
While underground, Nelson Mandela writes a letter in which he states the famous words: "The struggle is my life. I will continue fighting for freedom until the end of my days."
1961
27 June
The government of Ghana imposes a total ban on the export of all Ghanian produce to South Africa and South West Africa, as a protest against apartheid.
1961
29 June
During its plenary conference in Geneva, the International Labour Organisation adopts a Nigeria resolution condemning the racial policies of the South African government and calling for South Africa’s withdrawal from the ILO, by 163 votes to nil, with 29 abstentions. The South African Government has no intention of acceding to this request.
1961
29 June
The International Labour Organisation voted 163-O-89 in favour of a resolution calling for South Africa's withdrawal from the Organisation.
1961
29 June
The International Labour Organisation voted 163-O-89 in favour of a resolution calling for South Africa's withdrawal from the Organisation.
1961
30 June
The ‘Treason Trial’ ends. The total cost of the four-year trial is estimated at R1 million.
1961
4 July
A United Nations eight-man committee with instructions to investigate conditions in the Mandated Territory of South Africa, is refused permission to enter the Territory. The minister for External Affairs, Eric Louw announces that if members of the committee try to enter they will be detained and sent back and that this will involve the United Nations in an act of aggression.
1961
4 July
The Sierra Leone government imposes a ban on all trade and commerce with South Africa, as a protest against its apartheid policies. Ports and airports will be closed to all South African ships and aircraft; no white South Africans will be allowed to enter Sierra Leone; already in the country will not be granted re-entry visas.
1961
5 July
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announces it has entered into a stand-by agreement with South Africa under which South Africa may draw up to the equivalent of $75, 000,000 in a various currencies, during the next twelve months.
1961
5 July
Indemnity Act No 61:
With retrospective effect from 21 March 1960. This Act indemnifies the government, its officers and all other persons acting under their authority in respect of acts done, orders given or information provided in good faith for the prevention or suppression of internal disorder, the maintenance or restoration of good order, public safety or essential services, or the preservation of life or property in any part of the Republic.
Commenced: 5 July 1961
1961
8 July - 10 July
Malmesbury Convention of Coloured leaders.
1961
15 July
H.A. Fagan, former Chief Justice and Minister of Native Affairs, agrees to become leader of the National Union. Its founder, J. du P. (Jappie) Basson will remain party chairman.
1961
22 July
Sisulu, together with Moses Kotane and P.P.D. Nokwe, travel through the country to rally support.
1961
24 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement under article 18 of the Antarctic Treaty.
1961
August
Sisulu visits Cape Town and organised for the extension to the ANC Youth League.
1961
August
Fietas, Johannesburg: The Group Areas Development Board is replaced by the Department of Community Development.
1961
1 August
The Prime Minister announces that there will be a general election on 18 October1961. The necessary proclamation will be issued on 28 August 1961, nomination day 15 September 1961, and the House of Assembly will be dissolved.
1961
2 August
A re-organisation of the Cabinet is announced by Dr. Verwoerd.
1961
4 August
South Africa:Signs treaty with France amending the air agreement of 17 September 1954.
1961
15 August
An electoral alliance is announced between the United Party (UP) and the National Union (NU) in Bloemfontein, in a form of a nine-point pact determining the basic objectives.
1961
26 August
A.K. Ganyile, a Pondo leader and refugee in Basutoland is kidnapped with two companions by six South African policemen, taken across the border into South Africa, and imprisoned in the Transkei.
1961
September
Government established a Department of Indian Affairs and recognised that "the Indians are a permanent part of the population of this country".
1961
1 September
Establishment of the Department of Indian Affairs.
1961
18 September
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on aviation.
1961
October
Albert Luthuli is informed that he has been awarded the 1960 Nobel Prize for Peace for his “fight against racial discrimination” through non-violent means. Luthuli is the first African to win the prize.
1961
4 October
Separate elections for the four Cape Coloured representative seats are held. They are won by Independents with the United Party support.
1961
6 October
Sisulu is sentenced to R30-00 or 90 days imprisonment because he is not in possession of a reference book.
1961
8 October
The Nationalist Party won the general election and showed a gain of 10 per cent in its popular vote. In addition, it increased its Parliamentary majority by three seats. The results were:
Nationalist Party - 105 seats
United Party - 49 seats
Progressive Party - 1 seat
National Union - 1 seat
First case of sabotage against Government installations near Johannesburg.
1961
11 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty amending the Phyto Sanitary Convention of 1954.
The Foreign Minister, E. Louw, defends South Africa’s apartheid policy in the United Nations, against African criticism. On the same day the Assembly adopts a Liberian censure motion on South Africa, with sixty-seven in favour, one against, twenty abstaining, nine not participating in the vote (including the Britain and the United States) and three absent.
1961
11 October
The General Assembly decided - by 67 votes to 1, with 20 abstentions - to censure the Foreign Minister of South Africa for his offensive speech in the General Assembly. Only South Africa voted against.
1961
11 October
The General Assembly decided - by 67 votes to 1, with 20 abstentions - to censure the Foreign Minister of South Africa for his offensive speech in the General Assembly. Only South Africa voted against.
1961
13 October
The Minister of Justice issued the first house arrest order.
1961
17 October
Sisulu is arrested on a charge that Sisulu does not own a reference book. Sisuslu is confined to his house for 5 years.
1961
18 October
The government increases its strength in the elections. The final results are: Nationalists 105, United Party 49, Progressive Party 1, and National Union 1.
1961
18 October
General Election. Nationalists increased their majority in Parliament and obtained majority of total vote. Progressives reduced from 11 seats to one (Helen Suzman).
1961
20 October
The Minister of Justice banned all meetings to protest against arrest, trial or conviction of any person.
1961
23 October - 26 October
The Special Political Committee in the United Nations, with South Africa participating, debates South Africa’s racial policies.
1961
25 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with Italy regarding air services.
1961
26 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty for protection of performers, producers of phonograms and broadcasting organizations.
1961
28 October
Sisulu attends a gathering in the form of a party at the house of Lilian Ngoyi. He is, together with Lilian Ngoyi and Alfred Nzo, arrested and charged for inter alia 9(1) of Act 44 of 1950. The case is later withdrawn because sufficient evidence could not be supplied to prove that the party was in fact a meeting.
1961
29 October
Forty-five ANC leaders met in Lobatsi, Bechuanaland, to plan increased political activity against the Government of South Africa.
1961
14 November
The British Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, informs the House of Commons that responsibility for the conduct of Britain’s relations with South Africa will be transferred from the Commonwealth Relations Secretary to the Foreign Secretary, from 1 December 1961. Sir John Maud will continue to hold the posts of Ambassador to South Africa and of High.
1961
28 November
The United Nations General Assembly adopts an eight nation resolution, by seventy-two votes to two, with twenty-seven abstentions, calling on all member states to take such separate and collective action, as is open to them to bring about the abandonment of South Africa’s racial policies. It did not specifically call for sanctions.
1961
December
Handbills are distributed by the organisation Umkhonto we Sizwe (the spear of the nation) announcing new methods to be adopted in the struggle for freedom and democracy.
1961
1 December
South Africa:Signs agreement with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
1961
5 December
Albert Luthuli and his wife boards a plane in Durban to be flown to Oslo via London to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for 1960.
1961
10 December
Wearing a Chief’s ceremonial garb, Albert Luthuli receives the Nobel Peace Prize in the presence of King Olaf of Norway, many diplomats and other dignitaries and is given a standing ovation. In his acceptance speech, Albert Luthuli declares: “I regard this as a tribute to Mother Africa, to all peoples, whatever their race, colour or creed”.
1961
11 December
Chief Albert Luthuli receives the Nobel Prize in Oslo.
1961
11 December
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty extending the declaration on the provisional accession of Tunisia to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1961
11 December
Albert Luthuli is awarded the Nobel Peace prize in Oslo. The government issues a special ten-day passport, with restrictions on his movements and public appearances.
1961
11 December
Albert Luthuli delivers his Nobel Peace Prize address entitled ‘Africa and Freedom’ and pays tribute to the late Dag Hammarskjöld, “a distinguished world citizen and fighter for peace,” to whom the Nobel Peace Prize for 1961 was awarded. At the conclusion of his address, Albert Luthuli sings the liberation anthem Nkosi Sikel’I iAfrika and all the assembly soon joins in singing or humming the anthem.
1961
12 December
Dr. Verwoerd tells the union Council of Coloured Affairs that the Council will be transformed into a coloured ‘Parliament’ with a ‘Cabinet’, initially of four members, within the framework of a ten-year plan for the development towards self-determination of the Cape Coloured population.
1961
16 December
Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) is formed to "hit back by all means within our power in defence of our people, our future and our freedom".
1961
16 December
Five bomb explosions occur in Johannesburg and five others at Port Elizabeth.
1961
16 December
Handbills calling for sabotage were distributed in English and Zulu. During the night a series of explosions were set off, damaging a post office, several African affairs offices and an electric power station near Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth.
1961
18 December
Three further attempts to sabotage buildings in and near Johannesburg are discovered.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Sweden to further extend the period of validity of traffic rights granted to Scandavian Airlines System.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Norway to further extend the period of validity of traffic rights.
1961
21 December
As a result of investigations into the Port Elizabeth explosions, Security Police arrest and charge Robert H. Strachan with causing malicious damage to property.
1962
The Programme of action: the South African Communist Party adopts “The Road to South African Freedom”.
1962
Fietas, Johannesburg: Until this year there were 177 shops in the area with two mosques, four churches, two cinemas, 4 Islamic schools, 1 Hindu school, 1 Tamil school/temple/hall, 1 Indian girls’ school, 1 ‘coloured’ junior school, 1 ‘coloured’ college, 1 Indian junior school, a communal hall and a number of social clubs. The Queenspark Sports Grounds next to the cemetery on Krause Street was considered part of Fietas. The residential stands in the area had an average of 4 cottages on it.
1962
The Minister of Justice continues issuing a series of house arrest orders confining people to their homes foe a period of five years.
1962
The Minister of Justice continues issuing a series of house arrest orders confining people to their homes foe a period of five years.
1962
Sonia Bunting is placed under house arrest.
Florence Matomela is banned and restricted to Port Elizabeth, where she is subsequently sent to prison for five years for furthering aims of ANC.
Winnie Mandela banned under Suppression of Communism Act, and restricted to Orlando Township.
After ANC is outlawed, Dorothy Nyembe becomes President of Natal Rural Areas Committee and organizes anti-government demonstrations with rural women during the Natal Women’s Revolt.
Lillian Ngoyi is banned and confined to Orlando Township
Cissie Gool receives LLB degree from UCT and is admitted as an advocate to the Supreme Court.
Ruth Mompati goes into exile and becomes secretary and head of the Women’s Section of the ANC in Tanzania.
1962
Anti-Indian Legislation: The Sabotage Bill is tabled.
1962
(edit) There are Poqo uprisings in the Cape resulting in vicious killings, particularly of Whites.
1962
Eleven fans die at Jeppe Station, Johannesburg, following a Moroka Swallows '” Orlando Pirates derby at Natalspruit.
10,000 spectators in Maseru (Lesotho, then Basotholand) watch the Whites-only Germiston Callies defeat the Black Pirates (3-1).
Orlando Pirates Women's Football Club and Mother City Girls are among the first (short-lived) Black women's football teams.
1962
Introduction of the Sabotage Act.
1962
January
Nelson Mandela secretly leaves South Africa to attend a Pan African Freedom Movement conference in Addis Ababa. He travels to other countries to receive military training and then comes back into the country to continue operating underground.
1962
January
(edit) Mandela is smuggled out of the country. He attends the Pan-African Freedom Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia which is hosted by Tambo, and addresses the Pan African Emperor Haile Selassie. Mandela canvasses support in north and west African countries, meets Col. Boumedienne of Algeria, commander in chief of the army of National Liberation, and undergoes training in demolition and mortar firing and attends army lectures. He meets Nyerere and Kaunda who later head their states, and Oginga Odinga, the opposition leader in Kenya. He flies to Britain where he meets Hugh Gaitskell and Jo Grimond, Labour and Liberal Party leaders. Winnie Mandela is banned for two years. Mandela returns to South Africa, and is met at the border and driven to Johannesburg. The Congress of Democrats is banned. Mandela visits Luthuli on his return to Johannesburg, disguised as a chauffeur.
1962
13 January
Fietas, Johannesburg: A census is held determining that there were 177 shops in the area.
Population:
Indian – 4125
‘Coloured’ – 501
Malay – 860
Chinese – 59
‘African’ – unknown
1962
17 January
The Department of Justice announces that the charges against A.K. Ganyile have been dropped, the government regrets the incident, Ganyile is released, returns to Basutoland and later claims damages against the Minister of Justice and the policemen concerned.
Leaders of the South African National Convention Movement, a coloured opposition organisation, completely reject Dr. Verwoerd’s plan as offering them ‘sovereignty in no area but subservient in all’.
1962
21 January
The President of the Newspaper Press Union of South Africa, M.V. Jooste, issues the draft of a voluntary Press Code, including proposals for the setting up of a three-man Board of Reference.
1962
23 January
Dr. Verwoerd, announces his plan for the granting of ‘self-rule’ to the Transkei. It is to have its own Parliament and Cabinet, separate citizenship and control over agriculture, education, health, social services and roads with defence, foreign affairs and justice remaining in the hands of the central government in the meantime.
1962
31 January
The government’s proposals for self-government for the Transkei are submitted to the committee of twenty-seven chiefs and headmen appointed by the Transkeian Territory Authority to press its claims.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Luxemborg relating to air services.
1962
1 February
A statement entitled ‘We don’t want crumbs’ appears in New Age. In the statement Albert Luthuli unequivocally rejects the Government’s homelands policy.
1962
7 February
Walter Sisulu and Duma Nokwe go from house to house in Orlando, Johannesburg and rally support amongst the residents against the government's policy in respect of Bantu urban councils.
1962
7 February
Beginning of International Solidarity Campaign.
1962
19 February
The first part of the South African Press Commission’s first report is tabled in parliament by the Minister of the Interior, de Klerk. The report, which has taken eleven years to draw up consists of two volumes totaling 700 pages, with nineteen annexures running to 1,566 pages. It strongly recommends that the South African Press association (SAPA) gives more say in its affairs to the Afrikaans-language press.
1962
20 February
South Africa:Signs treaty amending the statute of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
1962
22 February
South Africa:Signs a parcel post agreement with Canada.
1962
12 March
The defence Minister, J.J. Fouche, outlines the basic principles of South Africa’s defence policy and gives a detailed of measures being taken to build up the Defence Forces and to make South Africa self-supporting in military equipment.
1962
21 March
The minister of finance, Dr. Eben Dönges, introduces a budget of national security with increased expenditure on defence.
1962
23 March
The Minister of Water affairs announces an ambitious scheme to harness the Orange River for power and irrigation at a cost of R450 million, spread over about thirty years.
1962
29 March
The Minister of Defence J.J. Fouché discloses that South Africa is buying supersonic Mirage III jet fighters from France, and that South African forces are being equipped with French alouette helicopters.
1962
6 April
South Africa:Signs a multilateral agreement for the accession of Israel to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1962
30 April
South Africa:Signs treaty with Germany extending the economic agreement of 28 August 1951.
1962
May
Under a government sponsored Bill, which received its third reading in the House of Assembly on 8 February 1962, a Coloured Development Corporation with a share capital of R500, 000 (250,000 Pounds Sterling) is established to aid coloured businessmen in developing and enlarging their own industries in the townships reserved for them.
1962
May
End of may, Victoerio Carpio repudiates Pretoria statement.
1962
3 May
South Africa:Signs a multilateral procés-verbal extending the declaration on the provisional accession of the Swiss Confederation to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and trade.
1962
4 May
The Transkeian Territory Authority approves the draft Constitution as a whole, after considerable controversy mainly concerning the composition of the Legislative Assembly.
1962
6 May
United Nations representatives of the committee to investigate the conditions in South West Africa, Victorio Carpio (Philippines) and Dr. Martinez de Alva (Mexico), begin informal talks with Dr. Verwoerd and South African officials in Pretoria. They subsequently visit South Africa and return to Pretoria.
1962
8 May
R.H. Strachan is found guilty of conspiring to cause bomb explosions and is sentenced to three years’ imprisonment.
1962
17 May
Dr. Jan Steytler, leader of the Progressive Party, launches a nationwide protest campaign against the General Laws Amendment Bill, published by the government on 12 May 1962 defining the crime of sabotage in the widest terms.
1962
23 May
South Africa:Signs an amendment agreement with Great Britain on sugar for Swaziland.
1962
24 May
A Bill replacing the Republic of South Africa (Temporary Provisions) Act, due to expire on 31 May 1962, is enacted and receives the Royal Assent. It designed to regulate finally the operation of British law in relation to South Africa.
1962
26 May
A joint statement is issued, agreed to by Dr. Verwoerd, Victorio Carpio, Dr. de Alva and the Foreign minister, Eric Low, indicating that no evidence has been found in SWA of genocide by South Africa, or of any excessive military occupation. The conditions there do not constitute a threat to world peace.
1962
28 May
South Africa:Signs convention with Greta Britain on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1962
June
The General Laws Amendment Act (Sabotage Act) passed.
1962
4 June
South Africa:Signs agreement with Great Britain for the temporary suspension of the margin of preference on tin plate.
1962
11 June
South Africa:Signs cultural agreement with the Federal Republic of Germany.
1962
12 June
South Africa:Signs amendment to the co-operation agreement with the United States.
1962
20 June
South Africa:Signs agreement with Japan on the safe-guards of materials transferred to Japan of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The International Commission of Jurists in Geneva, issues a 2,000-word statement asserting that the ‘the Sabotage Bill’ reduces the liberty of the subject to a degree ‘not surpassed by the most extreme dictatorship of the Left or Right’.
1962
23 June
African and some other delegates walked out of the International Labour Conference in Geneva when delegates of the Government and employers of South Africa went to the rostrum to participate in the general debate on the Director-General\'s report.
In 1961, the conference had asked the Governing Body to forward a request to the South African government to withdraw from the ILO in view of its apartheid policy. The Government ignored the request and sent its three delegations to the present conference. The ILO Constitution had no provision for excluding a member.
1962
23 June
African and some other delegates walked out of the International Labour Conference in Geneva when delegates of the Government and employers of South Africa went to the rostrum to participate in the general debate on the Director-General's report. In 1961, the conference asked the Governing Body to forward a request to the South African government to withdraw from the ILO in view of its apartheid policy. The Government ignored the request and sent its three delegations to the present conference. The ILO Constitution has no provision for excluding a member.
1962
27 June
Parliament passes the General Law Amendment Act – the ‘Sabotage Bill’ – sponsored by the Minister of Justice, B.J. Vorster, defining sabotage in the widest terms and prescribing a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of death. Its purpose is to combat communism.
1962
27 June
General Law Amendment Act (Sabotage Act) No 76:
Increased the State President’s power to declare organisations unlawful. Further restrictions could be imposed in banning orders, restricting movement. Persons could now even be banned from social gatherings, including having more than one visitor at a time. The Minister could list banned persons in the Government Gazette (GG).
This Act created the offence of sabotage by providing that any person who committed any wrongful and wilful act whereby he/she injured, obstructed, tampered with or destroyed the health or safety of the public, the maintenance of law and order, the supply of water, light, power, fuel or foodstuffs, sanitary, medical, or fire extinguishing services could be tried for sabotage (Horrell 1978: 443).
Commenced: 27 June 1962.
Section 16 repealed by the State of Emergency Act No 86 of 1995.
1962
July - September
Seventy-five serious fires attributed to widespread arson are reported in Natal.
1962
10 July
South Africa:Signs the International Wheat Agreement.
1962
23 July
Ben Turok is sentenced to three years imprisonment for attempting to cause an explosion in the centre of Johannesburg in February.
1962
26 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral recommendations under article IX of the Antarctic Treaty.
1962
30 July
Under the provisions of the General Law Amendment Act of 1962 a list of 102 persons prohibited from attending gatherings is published in the Government Gazette. Ti includes Patrick Duncan, Albert Luthuli, Duma Nokwe, Ronald Segal, Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo and Benjamin Turok.
1962
1 August
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement for the accession of Portugal to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1962
3 August
The United Nations Special Committee on South West Africa disowns the Pretoria statement.
1962
5 August
Nelson Mandela, who had gone underground in 1961, was arrested near Durban. He was sentenced to five years' imprisonment on November 7, 1962; then tried again, while in prison in the "Rivonia Trial" and sentenced to life imprisonment.
1962
8 August
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain, extending to South West Africa the Convention of 28 May 1962 on the avoidance of double taxation and the avoidance of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1962
15 August
The Liquor Laws Amendment Bill, under which Africans are for the first time allowed to buy liquor freely, comes into effect. Introduced on 9 June 1961, given a second reading on 19 June 1961, its third on 24 June 1961 and subsequently approved by the senate, its long delay in implementation is attributed to the large number of applications for liquor licences received.
1962
16 August
South Africa:Signs amendment with Great Britain on the Ottawa Trade Agreement of 20 August 1932.
1962
17 August
The Defence Minister, J.J. Fouché, announces that the striking power of the Defence Force has been increased twenty-fold as compared with two years earlier, while that of Navy is to be increased ten-fold in the next few years.
1962
24 August
African delegations requested Secretary-General U Thant to help obtain the release of Nelson Mandela. In a statement, they condemned the arrest on 5 August and noted that he was held under the Sabotage Act, which carries a possible death penalty.
1962
24 August
African delegations requested Secretary-General U Thant to help obtain the release of Nelson Mandela. In a statement, they condemned the arrest and noted that he was held under the Sabotage Act, which carries a possible death penalty.
1962
31 August
South Africa:Signs a visa agreement with Austria.
1962
September
Congress of Democrats banned.
1962
September
Congress of Democrats banned under the Suppression of Communism Act.
1962
7 September
The South African Congress of Democrats is banned by the Minister of Justice under the Suppression of Communism Act.
1962
14 September
South Africa:Signs a visa agreement with Belgium.
1962
28 September
South Africa:Signs International Coffee Agreement.
1962
October
ANC conference in Botswana
1962
October
End-October:The Minister of Justice continues issuing a series of house arrest orders confining people to their homes foe a period of five years.
1962
October
ANC Conference held in Botswana. Delegates came from all over South Africa and from abroad.
Vorster said that the biggest danger confronting South Africa was not communism, but liberalism. He warned the English press which continued to be the mouthpiece for the Congress Alliance.
The Minister of Justice issued the first house arrest order under the new Sabotage Act against Mrs. Helen Joseph, national vice-president of the banned Congress of Democrats. The order was valid for five years.
Minister of Justice Vorster issued an order banning until 30 April 1963 all meetings to protest against arrest, trial or conviction of any person. The order was understood to have been issued to counter demonstrations in connection with the trial of Nelson Mandela and the house arrest orders.
1962
October
Albert Luthuli is elected rector by the students of Glasgow University in recognition of his “dignity and restraint” in “a potentially inflammatory situation”.
1962
13 October
The first restrictions to house arrest under the Sabotage Act is imposed in Johannesburg on Helen Joseph.
1962
19 October
The office of the Minister of Agricultural Economics and Marketing is worked by an explosion in Pretoria.
1962
27 October - 28 October
45 African (and one Indian) leaders from South Africa had met at Lobatsi, Bechuanaland, to make plans to step up political activity. They were said to have been warned that unless their efforts against the government were intensified, funds from African states would be cut off.
1962
6 November
At its 17th session, the United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution on South Africa’s racial policies, deploring the failure of the South African government to abandon its racial policies, and establishing a Special Committee to keep these under review. The resolution favours diplomatic and economic sanctions against South Africa and asks that the UN Security Council consider expelling South Africa from the Council.
1962
6 November
The General Assembly requested Member States to take specific measures to bring about the abandonment of apartheid, including breaking of diplomatic, trade and transport relations. It also established a Special Committee to follow developments and report to the General Assembly and the Security Council. [Resolution 1761(XII)]
[From its session in 1962, the General Assembly combined the items on the treatment of Indians in South Africa and on apartheid into one item: "Policies of Apartheid of the Government of the Republic of South Africa.]
1962
6 November
The General Assembly requested Member States to take specific measures to bring about the abandonment of apartheid, including breaking of diplomatic, trade and transport relations. It also established a Special Committee against apartheid to follow developments and report to the General Assembly and the Security Council. [Resolution 1761(XII)]
1962
7 November
Mandela sentenced to five years.
1962
9 November
The Minister of Justice states that there have been twenty-three attempts of sabotage from late September to date. Nearly sixty African suspects are reported to have been arrested.
1962
15 November
Thirty-eight African and Asian delegations table a draft resolution in the Trusteeship Committee asking for an effective United Nations ‘presence’ in the South West Africa, and asking the General Assembly to reaffirm ‘the inalienable right of the people of South Africa to independence and national sovereignty.’
Uganda Prime Minister Milton Obote announces a boycott of South African goods.
1962
16 November
A list of 437 persons said to have been office-bearers, officers, members or active supporters of the banned Communist Party of South Africa is published. Listed persons are banned from belonging to thirty-six specified organizations and ordered to cease membership of such organisation by 1 February 1963.
1962
21 November
In an outbreak of violence at Paarl, Cape Province, two whites are beaten to death and seven blacks are shot during a march on a police station by about 100 blacks.
1962
27 November
Seven people were killed in Paarl. Africans marched on the police station to free prisoners arrested in recent killings. When the police opened fire, there were disturbances in town. The Minister of Justice appointed Mr. Justice J. H. Snyman to inquire into the causes of violence.
1962
29 November
President Swart appoints a one-man commission to inquire into the riots at Paarl.
1962 - 1964
December - June
In this period over 300 sentences are passed for such crimes as political murder, arson, acts of sabotage and bomb throwing, as well as for membership of banned organisation such as Poqo and the African National Congress. Forty death sentences are imposed in addition to numerous sentences of life imprisonment and lesser terms, at trials throughout the country.
1962
1 December
South Africa:Signs a loan agreement with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development concerning the seventh Transport Project.
1962 - 1963
7 December - 13 March
The Paarl Riots Commissioner, Justice J.H. Snyman hears evidence at Paarl and elsewhere. Detailed information on the nature and activities of the Poqo organization is obtained. Ti is equated with the Pan Africanist Congress.
1962
10 December
Albert Luthuli and Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr. issue a joint statement “Appeal for Action Against Apartheid”
1962
21 December
The International Court of Justice at Hague rules, by the narrow majority of eight votes to seven, that it has jurisdiction in the case brought by Ethiopia and Liberia alleging that South Africa has violated its mandate over South West Africa.
Dr. Verwoerd intimates that the government proposes to introduces legislation providing for the extension of the territorial sea limit for South Africa and South West Africa from three to six nautical miles and establishment of a contiguous fishing zone extending to twelve miles from the base line.
1963
Sisulu's wife Albertina is placed under banning orders (remains so until 1983)
1963
Police raided the secret headquarters of MK, arresting the leadership. This led to the Rivonia Trial where the leaders of MK were charged with attempting to cause a violent revolution, and thus sentenced to life imprisonment.
1963
Some ANC leaders - among them Oliver Tambo and Joe Slovo avoided arrest and left the country. Other ANC members left to undergo military training.
1963
Fietas, Johannesburg: Harry, ‘the fat man’, a tramp living in Fietas disappeared. On inquiries to his family in Soweto it was found that he had died, but later it turned out that he was alive and well.
1963
Dorothy Nyembe is arrested for leading the Natal Women\\\'s revolt where women refuse to fill cattle dipping tanks, and eventually destroy them.
1963
The United Arab Republic government informs the United Nations that it has banned South African ships from entering UAR ports, and that, while they will still be allowed to use the Suez Canal they will be denied all facilities there.
The Rivonia Trial opens in a special court at Pretoria. Eleven men are charged with complicity in more than 200 acts of sabotage aimed at facilitating revolution and armed invasion of South Africa. The indictment is quashed on the grounds that the State has not provided sufficient details of the alleged offences, but a new indictment is prepared and the trial proceeds.
1963 - 1964
African students begin focussing their attention on the multi-racial National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) an outspoken anti-government organisation with a membership drawn heavily from White English-speaking universities, for want of a better vehicle to express their political aspirations.
1963
The Coloured Person's Education Act places. control over 'coloured' education under the Department of Coloured Affairs. 'Coloured' schools are also compelled to register with the government. 'Coloured' education is made compulsory.
1963
Miriam Makeba addresses the United Nations\' Special Committee Against Apartheid, in New York.
Sonia Bunting goes into exile and continues to work for the Communist Party. She becomes organiser of the World Campaign for the Release of South African Political Prisoners.
Frances Baard is detained and held for 12 months in solitary confinement.
Dorothy Nyembe is arrested for furthering the aims of the ANC and is sentenced to three years imprisonment.
1963
Albetina Sisulu is arrested
1963
Steve Biko is introduced to politics as a teenager, when one of his older brothers, Khaya, a student at Lovedale High School, is arrested as a suspected Poqo member and jailed for three months.
The South African Police interrogate Steve Biko in connection with his brother\'s Pan Africanist activities, and Steve Biko is subsequently expelled from Lovedale.
Steve Biko develops a strong antipathy toward White authority, and carries this attitude with him when he enters St Francis College at Marianhill in Natal, a liberal Catholic boarding school and one of the few remaining private high schools for Africans in South Africa.
1963
The FIFA executive lifts the Football Association of South Africa's (FASA) suspension. FASA announces it will send an all-White team to the 1966 World Cup, and an all-Black team to the 1970 World Cup. FIFA president Stanley Rous gets FASA temporarily reinstated in 1963, but FASA is again suspended in 1964. It is expelled from FIFA in 1976.
1963
International Labour Organization (ILO) voted to expel South Africa.
1963 - 1964
Repression under the 90- and 180-day detentions.
1963
January
Regime placed blanket ban on all named and banned people. ANC decided to send some leading cadres abroad to set up external mission of the ANC and reinforce the work being done by the liberation movement from abroad.
1963
1 January
Thousands of Commonwealth citizens resident in South Africa, mostly Britons, become technically aliens through failing to apply for permanent residence by 31 December 1962 under the Commonwealth Relations Act enacted on 15 June 1962.
1963
11 January
Sisulu attends a secret meeting at the house of George Xarile together with F. Van Rensburg (a shift boss from Vlakfontein mine). It is understood that Van Rensburg made bombs for Sisulu - presumably from dinamite.
1963
18 January
Parliament opens with the debate of ‘no confidence’ moved by the Leader of opposition Sir de Villiers Graaff. The prime Minister defends the government’s Bantustan policy by attempting to establish the fact that it had been implicit in the National Party programme since it came to power in 1948.
1963
5 February
A white family is savagely killed in their caravan whilst camping on the Bashee River in the Engcobo area of the Transkei. Forty Africans are later arrested and twenty-two sentenced to death for the murders.
1963
8 February
Signs a most-favoured- Nation trade agreement with Spain.
The government publishes the draft of the Bantu Laws Amendment Bill intended to remove most of the remaining rights of Africans in white areas, including the security of employment or residence.
1963
11 February
The Defence, J.J. Fouché, announces in the House of assembly that he intends to increase the strength of the permanent army by fifty per cent.
1963
19 February
The Minister of Defence announces the re-establishment, as of 1 April 1963 of the ‘Cape Corps’ of coloured to be employed in non-combatant roles.
1963
20 February
Walter Sisulu attends a secret ANC meeting of the Phomolang branch.
1963
22 February
South Africa:Signs agreement with Australia on air pooling.
1963
23 February
At the annual conference of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Leopoldville, fifteen African states table a draft resolution requesting the United Nations Economic and Social Council to deprive of racial discrimination’. The resolution is adopted by thirty votes, with Britain, France and Spain opposing it.
1963
27 February
South Africa:Signs a treaty with the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland amending the trade agreement of 16 May 1960.
1963
4 March
Sisulu is sentenced, in the Johannesburg Regional Court, to 6 years imprisonment for (1) under section 3 (1) (A) Act 8/53 - 3 years imprisonment. Sisulu appeals, but bail is refused.
1963
4 March
Walter Sisulu, former Secretary-General of the African National Congress is convinced of having incited African workers to strike in protest against the Republic of South Africa Constitution Act of 1961, and having furthered the aims of the ANC. He is sentenced to six years’ imprisonment.
1963
9 March
Sisulu is released on R6,000 bail.
1963
14 March
The Publications and Entertainment Bill, which has been before a select Committee for nearly two years, passes its third reading in the House of Assembly by six votes to forty. The Minister of interior is to appoint a Publications Control Board to control importation, distribution, exhibition, sale or possession of Publications deemed ‘undesirable’
1963
15 March
The Defence Minister, J.J. Fouché, give the Senate details of South Africa’s defence programme and replies to statements made by Harold Wilson on the British Labour Party’s attitude to arms supplies to South Africa.
1963
20 March
Police obtain information that Sisulu is an office bearer of Umkhonto We Zizwe (Spear of the Nation).
1963
20 March
The Budget introduced by the Minister of Finance, Dr. T.E. Dönges, provides the record sum of R202 million for defence and internal security.
1963
21 March
Justice Snyman, judge in the Cape division of the Supreme Court, produces an Interim Report of his inquiry into the Paarl riots. This developed into an investigation into the Poqo organization, operating from Basutoland in collusion with subversive groups in the Transkei and its involvement in the murders and terror in the Eastern Province and the Transkei. The report is immediately tabled in the house of Assembly by the Minister of Justice B.J. Vorster, who announces that he accepts the judge’s findings and will act on them.
1963
25 March
Potlako Leballo, claiming to be the leader of the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), confirms in Maseru, Basutoland, that Poqo and the PAC are one and the same organisation and that its revolutionary council is discussing the timing and manner of an uprising to be launched in South Africa during 1963.
1963
26 March
Sisulu attends an ANC party in Dube Pokaso. The party is held in aid of strengthening ANC funds.
1963
1 April
The Foreign Officer of the Philippines announces that it has instructed its Commerce Department, the National Marketing Corporation and the Bureau of Customs, to implement a boycott of all South African goods as well as to halt exports to South Africa.
1963
2 April
First meeting of the Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid of the Government of the Republic of South Africa (later renamed "Special Committee against Apartheid").
1963
2 April
First meeting of the Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid of the Government of the Republic of South Africa (later renamed "Special Committee against Apartheid").
1963
3 April
Sisulu placed under 84 hours house arrest.
1963
3 April
South Africa:Signs a treaty with Great Britain on the temporary suspension of the tariff preference on crude sperm oil.
1963
6 April
South Africa:Signs a Parcel post agreement with Japan.
1963
8 April
South Africa:Signs an amendment to the constitution of the International Labour Organisation.
1963
14 April
South Africa:Signs a treaty with Bechuanaland protectorate on aeradio-tele-communications and meteorological services at Maun.
1963
18 April
The Foreign Minister states that the South African government is unable to assist the United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid since its establishment is contrary to the provisions of the United Nations.
1963
19 April
Security Police visit Sisulu's house and find that Sisulu has fled.
1963
20 April
The Rand Daily Mail reports that Sisulu has fled to Bechuanaland.
1963
20 April
South Africa:Signs the Olive Oil Agreement.
1963
22 April
The Transvaler reports that Sisulu has not yet arrived in Bechuanaland. The Star, however, alleges that he has been seen in Bechuanaland.
1963
23 April
Dr. Verwoerd, states in Parliament that if political refugees in the British Protectorates are allowed to organize revolution against South Africa then these Territories must expect retaliation.
1963
24 April
The Pretoria News alleges that Sisulu had arrived in Lorenzo Marques, Mozambique, on the 24th of April 1963 according to a press report in the L.M. Newspaper.
1963
24 April
South Africa:Signs the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
The Minister of Justice introduces a General Laws Amendment Bill implementing Justice Snyman’s recommendations establishing emergency courts to deal with cases arising from Poqo activities, and gives the Minister power to detain anyone without trial in solitary confinement for ninety days, and thereafter for further periods of ninety days, at the Minister’s discretion. The Minister is also given powers to detain without trial anyone who has been convicted of an offence endangering the security of the state. Only Helen Suzman, representing the Progressive Party, opposes the Bill in toto.
1963
26 April
At a meeting in Oslo, the Foreign Ministers of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden and the Icelandic Ambassador call upon South Africa to change its racial policies and to cooperate with the United Nations.
1963
30 April
Walter Sisulu is in Lobatse.
1963
30 April
Algeria announces a total boycott of South Africa.
Three listed white communist serving sentences of house of arrest, escape to Bechuanaland.
1963
May
The security police begin 90-day arrests. A widespread purge of ‘subversive elements’ is undertaken.
1963
1 May
Prime Minister Vorster announces that Robert Sobukwe has been taken to Robben Island, where he will be detained indefinitely in terms of the General Laws Amendment Bill of 29 Apr.1963.
1963
2 May
General Law Amendment Act No 37:
Section 17, the ninety-day detention law, authorised any commissioned officer to detain - without a warrant - any person suspected of a political crime and to hold them for ninety days without access to a lawyer (Horrell 1978: 469). In practice people were often released after ninety days only to be re-detained on the same day for a further ninety-day period. The ‘Sobukwe clause’ allowed for a person convicted of political offences to be detained for a further twelve months. The Act also allowed for further declaration of unlawful organisations. The State President could declare any organisation or group of persons which had come into existence since 7 April 1960 to be unlawful. This enabled the government to extend to Umkhonto we Sizwe and Poqo the restrictions already in force on the ANC and the PAC (Horrell 1978: 416).
Commenced: 2 May 1963, except ss 3, 9 & 14, which came into effect at different times.
Sections 3-7 and 14-17 repealed by the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982.
1963
7 May
South africa:Signs agreement with Portugal
1963
8 May
Exchanges notes with Scandinavia amending the Air Agreements of December 1961.
The United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid publishes its first Interim Report, recording with satisfaction the number of countries that have broken off diplomatic and commercial relations with South Africa, but noting with regret that nearly twenty member states still maintained these.
The British Ambassador in Pretoria and High Commissioner for the Protectorates, Sir John Maud, confirms that a distinction is made between ordinary political refugees and people who flee to the Protectorates to organize revolution. It is Britain’s policy ‘to prevent action in any territory designed to foment violence in the Republic’
1963
16 May
South Africa:Signs the Ocean Mail Contract with the Union Castle Company.
1963
23 May
South Africa:Signs additional regulations on No.2
1963
24 May
The Transkei Self-Government Bill is enacted, giving, for the first time, limited self-government to Africans in a defined area. It incorporates the draft Constitution for the Transkei, as finally approved by the Transkei Territorial Authority in December 1962.
1963
30 May
Transkei Constitution Act No 48:
Self-government given to Transkei.
Commenced: 30 May 1963
Repealed by Sch 7 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No 200 of 1993.
1963
5 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the release from the bound margin of preference of ten percent ad valorem on certain preserved fruit granted to South Africa.
1963
5 June
Number of alleged Poqo members arrested totalled 3,246. (House of Assembly, June 12)
1963
25 June
Signs provincial air agreement with the Federal Republic of Germany.
The final report by Justice Snyman on the Paarl Riots, is submitted to Parliament. It analyzes the main causes of the riots.
1963
26 June
Sisulu speaks on "Freedom Radio" and urges the youth to join forces and continue the struggle to fight for freedom.
1963
27 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Bechuanaland Protectorate on postal services and insured parcels.
1963
28 June - 30 June
The governing body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) meeting in Geneva, to discuss emergency measures against South Africa and the problems its membership poses. It is resolved that South Africa should be excluded from ILO meeting.
1963
2 July
Cameroon closes its sea and air ports to both Portugal and South Africa.
1963
3 July
Extension of University Education Amendment Act No 67:
Amended the 1959 Extension of University Education Act and the University College of Fort Hare Transfer Act No 64 of 1959.
Commenced: 3 July 1963
Repealed by s 21 of the Tertiary Education Act No 66 of 1988.
1963
4 July
South Africa:Signs treaty with Swaziland on postal services including parcel post.
1963
6 July
Robert John McBride is born in the Coloured section of Addington Hospital, Durban. His father Derrick Robert McBride and mother Doris are teachers at a Clairwood school. His maternal grandparents were Collin Campbell van Niekerk, a White Afrikaner, and Grace, a Coloured daughter of a Zulu-speaking mother and a Coloured father.
Robert grows up in Wentworth, a suburb 11km from the city centre of Durban. Converted from a World War 2 military transit camp, Wentworth is flanked by the industrial area of Jacobs and an oil refinery, and is reserved for Coloured people.
1963
11 July
Sisulu is arrested and detained under Section 17 Act 37/1963.
1963
12 July
Hungary announces the breaking-off of trade relations with South Africa.
The Security Police surround a house in Rivonia and arrest eighteen people, including Walter Sisulu, former Secretary-General of the banned African National Congress and Ahmed Kathrada, who had also gone ‘underground’ from house arrests.
1963
13 July
The government of India announces that it is cutting India’s last remaining links with South Africa by refusing landing and passage facilities to South African aircraft.
The Security police discose the existence of an underground group the Yu Chi Chan, said to include people trained in Peking and Algeria for sabotage in South Africa.
1963
15 July
Dr. Verwoerd announces that the government has decided to withdraw from the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) owing to the hostility shown by African states.
1963
16 July
Ivory Coast closes sea and airports to South Africa and Portugal.
1963
18 July
The United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid releases its second Interim Report recommending an effective an embargo on the supply of arms and ammunition, and of petroleum.
Harold Wolpe, a Johannesburg solicitor, and listed Communist, is arrested on the Bechuanaland border.
1963
22 July
Ethiopia closes her airspace to South African aircraft.
1963
26 July
The British High Commissioner for Basutoland, Bechuanaland and Swaziland issues the Prevention of Violence Abroad Proclamation, which makes it an offence for persons to conspire against, or incite, or instigate violence in South Africa or other neighbouring territories. It comes into immediate effect.
1963
30 July
In the Geneva session of the United nations Economic and Social Council, an Argentinean resolution state that South Africa shall not take part in the work of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) until conditions for constructive co-operation have been restored by a change of its racial policy. The resolution is adopted by six votes to two, with ten abstentions.
Yugoslavia closes its consular office in Johannesburg.
1963
31 July - 6 August
The United Nations Security Council debates the South African situation. The government reaffirms its decision not to participate in the debate since discussions would concern matters falling solely within its domestic jurisdiction.
1963
August
The Christian Institute of southern Africa, a non-racial interdenominational organisation, is founded under the directorship of Rev. C. F. Beyers Naudé.
1963
1 August - 30 September
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty for the prolongation of the International Sugar Agreement.
1963
6 August
Guinea announces that she has broken off diplomatic, commercial and cultural relations with South Africa and Portugal, and banned the entry of their nationals into Guinea.
1963
7 August
The United Nations Security Council adopts a resolution calling upon all states to cease forthwith the sale and shipment of arms, ammunition and military vehicles to South Africa.
South Africa is denied landing and over flying rights by the United Arab Republic as from this date.
1963
7 August
The Security Council adopted resolution 181 calling upon all States to cease the sale and shipment of arms, ammunition and military vehicles to South Africa.
1963
7 August
Security Council resolution...
1963
8 August
South Africa:Signs amendment to the sugar agreement of 3 June 1957 with Great Britain.
1963
10 August
Dr. K.G. Abrahams is arrested in Gobabis area of South West Africa, and subsequently charged with being the chairman of the Yu Chi Chan Club (YCCC) aimed at overthrowing the government by revolution. A precious attempt to arrest him on 19 July 1963 was obstructed by the local community at Rehoboth, SWA conflicting accounts surround the circumstances of his arrest. He himself claims to have been abducted from Bechuanaland, where he had been travelling between Ghanzi and Lobatsi.
1963
11 August
Harold Wolpe, a listed Communist arrested on the Bechuanaland border, and Arthur Goldreich, caught in the Rivonia raid escape from the Johannesburg Central Police station, ‘go to ground’ and on 28 August emerge in Bechuanaland.
1963
11 August
Arthur Goldreich, Harold Wolpe, Moosa Moolla and A. Jassat escaped from prison and left the country.
1963
19 August
Dr. Abrahams makes a habeas corpus application to the Cap Supreme Court and demands his return to Bechuanaland where he claims to have been already granted political asylum.
Indonesia announces the severance of diplomatic and commercial relations with South Africa, and the closure of Indonesian ports to South African vessels.
Sudan closes her sea and airports to South Africa and Portugal.
The Abrahams case is discussed by Sir Hugh Stephenson, the new British Ambassador in Pretoria and High Commissioner for Bechuanaland and the Permanent Secretary of the South African Foreign Ministry, in the light of the request by the British Colonial Office for a full report.
1963
20 August
The Israeli government informs the United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid that it has taken all necessary steps to ensure that no arms, ammunition, or strategic materials may be exported from Israel to South Africa in any form, directly or indirectly.
Mauritius closes her sea and airports to South Africa and Portugal.
1963
22 August
South African Airways (SAA) announces the re-routing of its services to Europe via Luanda (Angola), Brazzaville, the Cape Verde Islands, and Las Palmas.
1963
28 August
Goldreich and Wolpe are found to be in Francistown, Bechunaland, having flown there from Swaziland.
1963
30 August
The Prime Minister announces, in a statement before the Supreme Court in Cape Town, that Dr. Abra]iams will be returned to Bechuanaland. Dr. Abrahams, and his three companions, are returned to Ghanzi on 31 August 1963, and the charge of sabotage is withdrawn on 11 September 1963.
1963
31 August
Libya closes her sea and airports to South Africa and Portugal and denies them over flying rights.
1963
September
South African Airways is excluded from flying over the African continent, except for Portuguese territory.
1963
3 September
Dr. Verwoerd suggests that the three Protectorates might develop to independence under South Africa’s guidance rather than under Britain’s and offers to administer them as self-governing Bantustans.
1963
9 September
At a meeting in Stockholm the Foreign Ministers of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden confirm that their countries neither permit, nor intend to permit any exports of arms to South Africa. Their ultimate aim is the guaranteeing of equal rights to all citizens.
1963
12 September
Chad closes its air space to South Africa and Portuguese aircraft, as well as to all other planes carrying goods or passengers to or from the two countries.
1963
14 September
South Africa:Signs multilateral Convention on Offences Committed on Board Aircraft.
1963
16 September
The final report of the United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid gives a detailed review of developments in South Africa’s racial policies since 6 November 1962. It is unanimously approved and published on 18 September 1963.
1963
17 September
Regulations incorporating new measures to prevent aircraft transporting ‘criminals or refugees’ in or out of the three British High Commission Territories are published in the Government Gazette. Thirty-seven air ports are designated as compulsory landing points (twelve for Basutoland, seventeen for Bechuanaland and eight for Swaziland).
1963
23 September
The United Arab Republic Ministry of Economy announces that all economic ties with South Africa will be severed.
At the World Health Organization’s Regional Conference for Africa, in Geneva, twenty-six African delegates leave the opening session in protest against the presence of South African and Portuguese delegates. The Conference is left without a quorum and adjourned on 24 September 1963.
1963
27 September
The Danish Foreign Minister states in the United Nations General Assembly that the Scandinavian Foreign Ministers have refused an invitation by Dr. Verwoerd to visit South Africa to see for themselves what the racial situation really was. Such a journey is not seen as furthering a solution to the South African problem in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
1963
30 September
Tanganyika formally ends all imports and exports, direct and indirect, from and to South Africa.
1963
October
Prominent leaders of the ANC and allied organisations charged in the "Rivonia trial". (Many of them had been arrested on the Rivonia farm).
1963 - 1964
October - June
The Rivonia Trial, which ended in Mandela, Mbeki, Sisulu, Goldberg, Kathrada, Mhlaba, Mlangeni and Motsoaledi being sentenced to life imprisonment.
1963 - 1964
October - June
The Rivonia Trial, which ended in Mandela, Mbeki, Sisulu, Goldberg, Kathrada, Mhlaba, Mlangeni and Motsoaledi being sentenced to life.
1963
2 October
Kuwait breaks off diplomatic relations with South Africa and all Kuwaiti air and seaports are closed to South African aircraft and vessels.
1963
9 October
Walter Sisulu, Nelson Mandela, Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada, Rusty Bernstein, Dennis Goldberg, James Kantor, Andrew Mlangeni, Elias Motsoaledi and Raymond Mhlaba (The Rivonia Trialist) are charged with sabotage and attempting to overthrow the state violently.
1963
9 October
(edit) Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada, Rusty Bernstein, Dennis Goldberg, James Kantor, Andrew Mlangeni, Elias Motsoaledi and Raymond Mhlaba (The Rivonia Trialist) are charged with sabotage and attempting to overthrow the state violently. In the Cape members of a breakaway group from the Non-European Unity Movement, Neville Alexander, Don Davis, Marcus Solomons, Elizabeth van der Heyden, Fikile Bam, Ian Leslie van den Heyden, Lionel Davis, Dorothy Alexander, Dulcie September, Doris van der Heyden and Gordon Hendricks are brought to trial in Cape Town.
1963
10 October
An urgent resolution is considered by the United Nations Political Committee condemning the government of South Africa for its repression, and requesting it to abandon the trial now in progress and to grant unconditional release to all political prisoners and to all persons subjected to other restrictions for having opposed the policy of apartheid. It is approved, and the following day, 11 October 1963, passed by the General Assembly by 106 votes to one.
1963
11 October
South africa:Signs multilateral sugar agreement.
1963
11 October
The General Assembly adopted resolution 1881(XVIII) requesting the Government of South Africa to abandon the "Rivonia trial" of Nelson Mandela and other leaders, and forthwith to grant unconditional release to all political prisoners and to all persons imprisoned, interned or subjected to other restrictions for having opposed the policy of apartheid. The vote was 106 to 1, with only South Africa voting against.
(This date was subsequently proclaimed the Day of Solidarity with South African Political Prisoners.)
1963
11 October
The General Assembly adopted resolution 1881(XVIII) requesting the Government of South Africa to abandon the "Rivonia trial" of Mr. Nelson Mandela and other leaders, and forthwith to grant unconditional release to all political prisoners and to all persons imprisoned, interned or subjected to other restrictions for having opposed the policy of apartheid. The vote was 106 to 1, with only South Africa voting against.
(This date was subsequently proclaimed the Day of Solidarity with South African Political Prisoners.)
1963
15 October
The Netherlands Permanent Representative at the United Nations announces that his government has banned the export and transit to South Africa of weapons and munitions• which could be used for the oppression of the non-white population.
1963
17 October
The Rev. Dr. Arthur William Blaxall, an Anglican clergyman is convicted on charges of aiding the activities of the Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC) and the ANC. He had pleaded guilty and does not appeal against the sentence. However, on instructions from Mr. Vorster he is released on parole the following day.
1963
21 October
The Canadian Minister for External Affairs announces that the government has imposed an embargo on further sales or shipments of Canadian military equipment to South Africa.
1963
28 October
The United Nations General Assembly Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee approves a Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination in which South Africa’s policy of apartheid is specifically condemned.
1963
November
The Minister of Security announces that 543 people have been detained under the 90-day clause. Of these 151 have been released, 275 have been charged in court, sixty-one are due to be charged shortly, five have escaped and fifty-one are still being questioned.
1963
7 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the suspension of the margin of preference on crude sperm oil.
1963
8 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on radio regulations.
1963
13 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the provisional accession of Yugoslavia to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1963
16 November
South Africa:Signs treaty extending the declaration on the provisional accession of Argentina to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1963
18 November
Eric H. Louw, Foreign Minister since January 1955, announces his intention to retire.
1963
20 November
The first elections to the forty-five seats for elected members of the Transkei Legislative Assembly take place.There are no political parties, the choice being between candidates supporting Chief Kaiser Matanzima and those supporting Paramount Chief Victor Polo Ndamase of the West Pondos, believed to favour multi-racialism. All adults are entitled to vote; voters comprise all Xhosa,not only in the Transkei, but throughout South Africa.
1963
21 November
It is officially announced on Eric Louw’s seventy-third birthday that the South African Ambassador in London, Dr. Hilgard Muller, will be sworn in as Foreign Minister on 9 January 1964.
1963
22 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty banning nuclear weapon testing in the atmosphere.
1963
28 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the temporary suspension of the tariff preference on crude sperm oil enjoyed by South Africa,
1963
December
Transkei granted self-government. In elections held earlier, opponents of bantustan policy won a majority of the 45 elected seats. But they were outnumbered by 64 appointed Chiefs who became members of the assembly.
1963
December
Zainab Asvat leads a women’s march to Union Buildings to protest appointment of Indian National Council and Group Areas Act.
1963
2 December
It is officially conceded that the majority of the members elected to the first Transkei Legislative Assembly support Chief Poto. The voting percentage in most areas is reported to be over 70% and the total number of voters to have exceeded 800,000.
1963
3 December
The Rivonia Trial, concerning two charges of sabotage, one under the Suppression of Communism Act, and one under the General Law Amendment Act, begins before Justice de Wet. The Prosecutor, Dr. Percy Yutar gives details of explosives to be used to commit acts of destruction, to be followed by guerrilla activity and military invasion.
1963
4 December
The United Nations Security Council unanimously adopts a resolution calling on the South African government to cease its repressive measures and calls on all states to embargo materials for arms manufacture. A small group of recognized experts is to be established to examine methods of resolving the South African situation.
1963
4 December
The Security Council, in resolution 182(1963) called upon all States "to cease forthwith the sale and shipment of equipment and materials for the manufacture and maintenance of arms and ammunition in South Africa". It requested the Secretary-General to establish a small group of experts to examine methods of resolving the situation in South Africa "through full, peaceful and orderly application of human rights and fundamental freedoms to all inhabitants of the territory as a whole, regardless of race, colour or creed, and to consider what part the United Nations might play in the achievement of this goal."
1963
4 December
The Security Council, in resolution 182(1963) called upon all States "to cease forthwith the sale and shipment of equipment and materials for the manufacture and maintenance of arms and ammunition in South Africa". It requested the Secretary-General to establish a small group of experts to examine methods of resolving the situation in South Africa "through full, peaceful and orderly application of human rights and fundamental freedoms to all inhabitants of the territory as a whole, regardless of race, colour or creed, and to consider what part the United Nations might play in the achievement of this goal."
1963
6 December
The Transkei Legislative Assembly meets for the first time in Umtata and elects Chief Kaiser Matanzima as Chief Minister by fifty-four votes to forty-nine for Chief Victor Polo, with two papers spoilt. Chief Matanzima forms a political party with the backing of the non-elective chiefs and their supporters; Chief Poto goes into opposition as the leader of the democratically elected members.
1963
10 December
South africa:Signs multilateral treaty on consent to marriage, minimum age for marriage and registration of marriages.
1963
11 December
The first of the ‘Bantustans’ comes into existence when the Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, de Wet Net, opens the Transkei Legislative Assembly at Umtata. Chief Kaiser Matanzima is installed as Chief Minister.
1963
12 December
South Africa:Accepts Procčs-verbal extending the provisional accession of Tunisa to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1963
15 December
Sisulu's appeal is dismissed by the Transvaal section of the Supreme Court. Sisulu must serve his 6 year prison sentence.
1963
16 December
The General Assembly appealed for assistance to families of persons persecuted by the South African Government for their opposition to apartheid. [Resolution 1978(XVIII)]
1963
23 December
South Africa:Signs treaty with Southern Rhodesia on the removal of the operation of the 6 Feb. 1964 trade agreement of 16 May 1960.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Southern Rhodesia on the continuation of the extradition agreement of 19 November 1962.
South Afrca:Signs treaty on extradition (Northern Rhodesia) with Great Britain.
It is announced in Pretoria that Dr. Card de Wet, M.P. for Vanderbijlpark, Transvaal and grandson of General IC. de Wet, a leading Boer commander in the South African War of 1899-1902, has been appointed Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
1964
Vuyisile Mini, W. Mkaba and Z. Khanyiga, all eastern Cape trade union leaders are executed for killing a police informer.
1964 - 1970
Fietas, Johannesburg: All Pageview residents are issued with eviction orders
1964
African Self-Help Association is set up.
Frances Baard is sentenced to five years under Suppression of Communism Act for ANC activities.
Hilda Bernstein escapes to Botswana, then London and becomes a member of the External Mission and Women’s Section of the ANC
1964
1964 In the face of strong opposition by rank-and-file members (mostly White) to some of its more "radical" policies, the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) shifts rightwards, confining itself to symbolic multiracial activities and protests after-the-fact against government infringements on academic freedom. This marks the beginning a phase of deep frustration for the small Black membership, as virtually all channels for the expression of anti-apartheid sentiment are closed. The students allow themselves to be co-opted into the new non-risk style of NUSAS politics, since they are unable to adequately articulate their opposition to injustice.
1964
Black Labour Act No 67:
Consolidated the laws regulating the recruiting, employment, accommodation, feeding and health conditions of black labourers.
Commenced: 1 January 1965
Repealed by s 69 of the Black Community Development Act No 4 of 1984.
1964
Education Act No 2:
Overrode South African apartheid schooling systems and provided for black schooling and subsidies.
Commenced: 1 April 1965
1964
Robert McBride's sister Bronwyn is born.
1964
Robert McBride's maternal grandfather, Collin Campbell "Sonny" van Niekerk (a White Afrikaner) dies. He was a bus driver in the rural village of Harding, southern Natal.
1964
FASA's (Football Association of South Africa) suspension is re-imposed by the FIFA Congress. The Federation leadership is persecuted, arrested, or banned.
Avalon Athletic win the SASL (South African Soccer League) double (League and Cup titles). Eric 'śScara'ť Sono dies in a car crash at the age of 27.
The Pretoria Sundowns soccer team is revived.
1964
4 January
In a New Year message, the South African Prime Minister says it is justifiable for the whites to refuse to commit national suicide and to fight for self preservation.
1964
6 January
South Africa:Signs treaty with France on the installation of a scientific space tracking station in South Africa.
1964
13 January
The United Nations Secretary-General names four experts to examine the problem of apartheid in South Africa in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolution of 4 December 1963. They are: Sir Edward Asafu-Adjaye (Ghana); Josip Djerdja (Yugoslavia); Sir Hugh Foot (United Kingdom); and Alva Myrdal (Sweden).
1964
17 January
Leader of the Opposition, Sir de Villiers Graaff, demands a judicial inquiry into the activities of the Broederbond, and demands the resignation of the Prime Minister from this society. Dr. Verwoerd refuses to resign.
1964
24 January
It is announced that efforts by Britain’s Foreign Secretary, Mr. Butler and Glasgow University to obtain permission from the South African government for Albert Luthuli to leave Natal and be installed as Rector of Glasgow University have failed.
1964
27 January
The appointment of the group of experts to examine the problem of apartheid, in terms of the United Nations Security Council resolution of 4 December 1963, is completed.
1964
30 January
Signs treaty with Great Britain on the suspension of the margin of preference on butter.
1964
4 February
The International Court of Justice announces that in the South West Africa cases (Ethiopia v. South Africa; Liberia v. South Africa) the counter-memorial of South Africa has been filed. 20 June 1964 is fixed as the time limit for the filing of replies by Ethiopia and Liberia and 20 November 1964 for the filing of South Africa’s rejoinder.
The number of men required for military training in 1964 is to increase by 60%, i.e. from 10,368 to 16,537.
1964
5 February
The South African government informs the United Nations Secretary-General that it is unable to agree to a visit by the group of experts, as it would be an interference in the internal affairs of the Republic.
1964
6 February
The Rt. Rev. Robert Selby Taylor, Bishop of Grahamstown, is elected Archbishop of Cape Town and Metropolitan of the Province of South Africa, in succession to Dr. Joost de Blank who recently returned to Britain on medical advice.
1964
7 February
The Transkei opposition leader Paramount Chief Victor PoW, forms South Africa’s first African political party - the Democratic Party. Its aims include the retention of the Transkei as an integral part of South Africa.
1964
8 February
The leader of the South African opposition, Sir de Villiers Graaf, agrees with the government that the composition of the proposed United Nations Committee to Study Apartheid is such as to preclude any possibility of an objective or impartial inquiry and that the group should not be received in South Africa.
1964
15 February
The governing body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) meeting in Geneva, votes in favour of suspending South Africa from participation in its Annual General Conferences. The resolution is passed by thirty-two votes to fourteen with two abstentions.
1964
23 February
A new weekly air service between Johannesburg and New York, with an intermediate stop at Rio de Janeiro is inaugurated in spite of the opposition of the UN Special Committee on Apartheid.
1964
28 February
A Bill, presently before Parliament, provides for the establishment of a Coloured Representative Council comprising thirty elected and sixteen nominated members. The State President will be able to confer power on the Council to make laws for coloureds in respect of finance, local government, education, community welfare and pensions.
1964
March
The South African delegation walks out of the World Health Organization (WHO) having been deprived of its voting rights.
1964
5 March
South Africa:Signs multilateral declaration on the provisional accession of Iceland to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1964
7 March
The Minister of Posts and Telegraphs, Dr. Hertzog, confirms that the government’s policy regarding television is unchanged. There is no question of television being introduced.
1964
7 March
The Minister of Posts and Telegraphs, Dr. Hertzog, confirms that the government’s policy regarding television is unchanged. There is no question of television being introduced.
1964
9 March
The United Nations Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid resumes its meetings and decides to draft an appeal to the Security Council and the General Assembly to ensure implementation of resolutions on South Africa adopted by them. They recommend that South Africa halt current trials of anti-apartheid leaders and refrain from executing persons already sentenced to death.
1964
11 March
About two hundred delegates from all parts of the world attend the Accra Conference for Solidarity with the Workers and People of South Africa.
1964
14 March
The South African Government announced withdrawal from the International Labour Organisation.
1964
20 March
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the elimination of the margin of preference of ten percent ad valorem on boxwood.
1964
21 March
The 1964-65 Budget provides for R210m. on defence, an increase of R52m. over the previous year. The Minister of Defence, Dr. Donges, admits it is a large increase but is confident the House will furnish ‘the wherewithal to discourage foreign aggression’.
1964
23 March
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty embodying results of the 1960-61 Tariff Conference pertaining to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1964
31 March
South Africa:Signs treaty with Denmark, Norway and Sweden on the temporary amendment of 1958 air agreements.
The United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid publishes a report recommending that the Security Council call on South Africa to refrain from executing people sentenced to death for political offences. to end political trials in process and grant amnesty to all political prisoners.
1964
17 April
The Conference on Sanctions against South Africa ends in London by issuing the declaration that total economic sanctions are feasible and practicable, and calls for world action to end apartheid.
1964
18 April
Dr. N.E. Alexander and four others are found guilty of sabotage and are sentenced to ten years imprisonment. The judge finds that the accused participated in the activities of the National Liberation Front (NLF), a continuation of the Yu Chi Chan Club, whose aims was to further violence and revolution.
South Africa:Signs agreement with France and a third party.
1964
20 April
At the Rivonia Trial, Nelson Mandela, former leader of the banned ANC, blames the actions of the government for adoption of policies of violence by African leaders. He surveys the history and aims of the ANC and gives reasons why Umkonto we Sizwe (the Spear of the Nation) was formed.
The United Nations Group of Experts on Apartheid submits its report to the Secretary-General. It proposes a National Convention to set a new course for South Africa’s future and envisages the removal of a mass of restrictive and discriminatory legislation.
1964
20 April
The Group of Experts on South Africa presented its report to the Secretary-General, recommending that "all the people of South Africa should be brought into consultation and should thus be enabled to decide the future of their country at the national level." The Group was set up in pursuance of the Security Council resolution of 4 December 1963, with Mrs. Alva Myrdal (Sweden) as Chairman. Sir Hugh Foot (United Kingdom) was Rapporteur.
1964
20 April
The Group of Experts on South Africa presented its report to the Secretary-General. Indication of recommendations. (CHECK)
Nelson Mandela addresses court at Rivonia trial.
1964
24 April
The Prime Minister maintains that the country is economically so strong that it can withstand economic sanctions. The only vulnerable spot is oil supply.
1964
May
Minister of Justice, John (B.J.) Vorster, serves Albert Luthuli with yet another five-year ban confining him to his home in Groutville.
1964
1 May
Signs treaty with Great Britain on the elimination of the margin of preference often percent ad valorem on prepared or preserved groundnuts.
President Kayibanda of Rwanda says the people and government condemn apartheid but think a realistic view should be taken of the probable effects of economic sanctions.
1964
6 May
South africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the temporary suspension of the margin of preference guaranteed to the UK on tin plate.
The Bantu Laws Amendment Bill passes its third reading, giving the Minister of Bantu Administration the powers to declare prescribed areas in which the number of Africans to be employed could be determined, to override local authorities in African affairs and to redirect redundant labour to African Reserves. This comprehensive piece of apartheid legislation is an essential component of the overall plan for separate development.
1964
9 May
Opening the first Legislative session of the Transkei-Legislative Assembly, President Swart says that the Transkei now has an all-Westernized system of government. The Republic of South Africa will continue to assist the Transkei and will train its successors in office.
1964
16 May
The Commission of Inquiry into the South African Press tables the second part of its report, severely criticizing the reporting on South African affairs by foreign correspondents, or local correspondents working for foreign news agencies, an antagonism towards Afrikaners and the government. The Commission recommends the setting up of a press council to control newspapers and correspondents.
1964
23 May
Albert Luthuli’s first five year ban expires but he is immediately served with a new and stricter order.
1964
30 May
The leader of the Basutoland National Party, Chief Leabua Jonathan, indicates that Basutoland is so economically dependent on South Africa that the imposition of economic sanctions is not feasible.
1964
3 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Southern Rhodesia on the continuation of the workman’s compensation agreement of 11 October 1958.
1964
5 June
Dr. Verwoerd says that the government has no intention of trying to incorporate Bechuanaland, Basutoland or Swaziland into South Africa.
A resolution to expel South Africa from the Universal Postal Union is approved by the Union’s congress in Vienna, by fifty-eight votes to thirty, with twenty-six abstentions.
1964
9 June
The Prime Minister announces the appointment of a one-man commission of enquiry, consisting of a Judge of Appeal, to investigate all secret organizations likely to influence unlawfully the State, the people, or the administration of justice. The inquiry is to be held in secret.
1964
9 June
The Security Council - in resolution 190 - urged the South African Government to end the Rivonia Trial and grant an amnesty to all persons imprisoned or restricted for having opposed the policy of apartheid.
1964
12 June
At the conclusion of the Rivonia Trial eight of the accused are sentenced to life imprisonment. The central figure in the trial is Nelson Mandela who argues that he was driven to acts of sabotage by the frustration of all legitimate means of political protest. His argument is rejected by the Judge. The State has not charged the accused with High Treason, and Mr. Justice
de Wet accordingly decides not to impose the supreme penalty.
1964
12 June
Nelson Mandela and others sentenced to life imprisonment in the Rivonia trial.
1964
12 June
Nelson Mandela and others sentenced to life imprisonment in the Rivonia trial.
1964
12 June
In a statement issued following the imposition of life sentences on Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and six others after the Rivonia Trial, Albert Luthuli declares: “The African National Congress never abandoned its method of militant, non-violent struggle…However, in the face of the uncompromising White refusal to abandon a policy which denies the African and other oppressed South Africans their rightful heritage freedom - no one can blame brave, just men for seeking justice by use of violent methods; nor could they be blamed if they tried to create an organised force in order to establish ultimately peace and racial harmony”.
1964
12 June
(edit) Nelson Mandela and all the other accused, except Rusty Bernstein are found guilty of sabotage and sentenced to life imprisonment; Dennis Goldberg is held in Pretoria
1964
13 June
In terms of a new General Laws Amendment Bill, the death penalty is extended to people who have undergone sabotage training within South Africa; the Minister of Justice is again empowered to detain people for indefinite periods after they have served prison sentences; and the twelve-day ‘jail without bail’ law of 1962 is renewed.
At the Rand Criminal Sessions three Africans are imprisoned for twelve years and one for eight years on a charge of sabotage.
1964
15 June
The United Nations Security Council, taking into account the recommendations and conclusions of its Group of Experts, condemns the apartheid policies of the government of South Africa and the legislation supporting those policies.
1964
16 June
The Rt. Rev. Joost de Blank presented a petition to the Secretary-General, on behalf of the World Campaign for the Release of South African Political Prisoners (sponsored by the Anti-Apartheid Movement, London). The petition was signed by 91,691 persons in 28 countries. The World Campaign informed the Secretary-General that the demand for the release of South African political prisoners had been supported by organisations with a membership of over 258 million.
1964
16 June
The Rt. Rev. Joost de Blank presented a petition to the Secretary-General, on behalf of the World Campaign for the Release of South African Political Prisoners (sponsored by the Anti-Apartheid Movement, London). The petition was signed by 91,691 persons in 28 countries. The World Campaign also informed the Secretary-General that the demand for the release of South African political prisoners had been supported by organisations with a membership of over 258 million.
1964
19 June
Sabotage groups blast three pylons, one in the Transvaal and two on the Cape Flats.
Parliament ends its session after 103 days and the passing of 100 bills.
1964
22 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the introduction of a system of levies for certain cereals and related products.
1964
24 June
General Law Amendment Act No 80:
Amended the 1963 General Law Amendment Act so that the Minister of Justice could extend the operation of the Sobukwe clause in individual cases. Sobukwe was thus imprisoned until 1969. This clause was re-enacted in amended form in 1976.
Commenced: 24 June 1964
Repealed by the Corruption Act No 94 of 1992.
1964
July
The police make many arrests throughout the country under the provisions of the General Laws Amendment Act.
1964
6 July
Fietas, Johannesburg: Mr. Mahomed Suliman Bhana, who had been active in the TIYC and is outspoken against apartheid policies, is served a banning order restricting him from attending any political or social gatherings, from entering any location and from leaving the Magisterial District of Johannesburg.
1964
21 July
The United Nations Committee on the Policies of Apartheid of the Government of South Africa expresses very serious concern at the reported arrest of Abraham Fischer, defence attorney in the Rivonia Trial.
1964
24 July
A time bomb placed in the main concourse of the Johannesburg railway station explodes during the evening rush hour, causing extensive injuries. Frederick John Harris is later tried and sentenced to death for this offence.
1964
24 July
Bomb exploded in Johannesburg railroad station, killing a white woman. (John Harris later convicted and hanged.)
1964
29 July
The Prime Minister issues a statement making it clear that the government will not yield to outside pressure to reduce the sentences in the Rivonia Trial.
1964
31 July
The Minister of Justice, B.J. Vorster, states at a Nationalist Party meeting that he is not prepared to lift the ninety-day detention clause, because of activity in five places in Africa where saboteurs are being trained for sabotage in South Africa and because of the regrouping of Communists since the Rivonia Trial.
1964
August
(edit) Winnie and Albertina Sisulu are given permission to visit Robben Island, but are forbidden to travel together a they are both banned.
1964
4 August
Cabinet changes follow the retirement of Paul Sauer, Minister of Lands, Forestry and Public Works. Jan F.W. Haak becomes Minister of Planning and of Mines: the three portfolios previously held by Paul Sauer are allocated to the following Ministers in addition to their existing portfolios:-
Lands, D.C.M. Uys, Forestry, WA. Maree and Public Works, P.W. Botha.
1964
13 August
South Africa:Signs Sugar Agreement with Great Britain (South Africa, Great Britain, Swaziland).
1964
15 August
Minister of Defence Foucht, announces that private enterprise will be responsible for the manufacture of aircraft for the South African Air Force. Jet trainers, to replace the SAAF’s Harvards will be the first aircraft to be made locally.
1964
18 August
South Africa:Signs second declaration on the extension of the standstill provisions Article XVI:4 of the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1964
22 August
A spokesman at the Police Headquarters in Pretoria states that the strength of the South African Police Reserve has reached 17,554 and that reservists are attached to almost every police station in South Africa.
1964
24 August
South Africa:Signs treaty with Malawi on double taxation.
1964
28 August
Transkei Authorities Act No 6:
Set in place mechanisms for the recognition of the Transkei government.
Commenced: 28 August 1964
Repealed by the Transkei Authorities Act No 4 of 1965
1964
15 September
South Africa:Signs agreement with Portugal on postal services (for Mozambique).
South Africa:Signs treaty with Northern Rhodesia on postal services.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Malawi on postal services.
1964
19 September
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development de Wet Nd says that ‘Tswanaland’, a number of African reserves Skirting the border with Bechuanaland, will be the next Bantustan to be granted self-government.
1964
24 September
South African ordinance workshops have produced the first Belgian F.N. rifle, which is now ready to go into production.
1964
7 October
It is announced in Rawalpindi that the government of Pakistan has decided to ban all exports from Pakistan to South Africa and has issued instructions to Pakistani shipping companies not to enter South African ports. Landing and passage facilities have already been refused to South African aircraft.
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement accepting the constitution of the Universal Postal Union.
1964
9 October
The demand to the United Nations by four Caprivi chiefs and officials of the newly-formed Caprivi African National Union, for the withdrawal of South Africa and the right to self-determination is reported.
The United Nations Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid. at the special meeting, urgently demands that South Africa refrain from executing three leaders of the ANC, sentenced to death in March 1964. The appeals of the three - V. Mini, W. Khayinga and Z. Mraba - against their sentences had been rejected by the Supreme Court.
1964
10 October
The United Party leader, Sir de Villiers Graaff, tells its Free State Congress that the Party rejects the idea of one man, one vote and will retain white leadership over all South Africa.
1964
13 October
South Africa:Signs agreement with Portugal (for Angola) with regard to rivers of mutual interest and the Kunene River Scheme.
South Africa:Signs agreement with Portugal (for Mozambique) providing for the extension of cooling facilities for citrus fruit.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Portugal (for Mozambique) on railway matters.
South Africa:Signs an economic agreement with Portugal.
1964
16 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with Southern Rhodesia on air transport.
1964
23 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain for the continuation of the trade agreement of 16 May 1960.
1964
26 October
The United Nations Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid decides to issue an appeal to member states and organizations to assist families of persons persecuted by the government for their opposition to the policies of apartheid.
1964
30 October
Accepts multilateral procčs-verbal extending the declaration of 13 November 1962 on the provisional accession of the United Arab Republic to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1964
6 November
Shock and profound indignation is expressed by the Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid, at its emergency meeting over the execution of the three ANC leaders in Port Elizabeth.
1964
6 November
Vuyisile Mini, Zinakile Mkaba and Wilson Khayinga, three prominent trade union leaders from the Eastern Cape, executed.
1964
6 November
Mini, Mkaba and Khayinga, 3 prominent trade union leaders from the Eastern Cape, executed.
1964
11 November
South Africa:Signs agreement with Greece on the reciprocal exemption from taxes on income derived from the operation of ships or aircraft.
1964
17 November
Harold Wilson, the British Prime Minister, announced in the House of Commons that the British government has decided to impose an embargo on the export of arms to South Africa. Outstanding commitments by the Ministry of Defence will be fulfilled, but no new contracts will be accepted. The contract to supply sixteen Buccaneer aircraft is under review.
1964
20 November
The trial of Abram Fischer, Q.C., and thirteen others, charged with being members of the banned Communist Party, begins.
1964
25 November
In a by-election at Edenvale, near Johannesburg in which the Broederbond is the main issue, the National Party’s candidate Dr. Piet Koornhof, general secretary of the Broederbond since 1962, retains the seat for the Nationalists with an increased majority of nearly 1,000.
1964
26 November
The Prime Minister, Dr. Verwoerd, welcomes the British Labour government’s announcement that the supply of the sixteen Buccaneer aircraft is being sanctioned. Immediate action concerning the Simonstown Agreement has been avoided.
1964
28 November
Dr. Verwoerd enters into a dispute with the British Prime Minister, Harold Wilson over a contract to supply Buccaneer aircraft, and threatens to abrogate the Simonstown Agreement if the planes are not supplied.
1964
30 November
South Africa:Signs trade agreement with Southern Rhodesia.
1964
1 December
South Africa:Signs multilateral customs agreement on the welfare material for seafarers.
1964
5 December
The Minister of Justice, B.J. Vorster, announces the suspension, from 11 January 1965, of the clause in the General Law Amendment Act providing for detention for ninety days. All detainees will have to be released or charged in Court by that date.
1964
10 December
It is announced that the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council has accepted a five-year plan designed to give South Africa an annual economic growth rate of five and a half per cent.
1964
12 December
Conclusion of Rivonia trial. Sisulu, Mandela, Mbeki, Kathrada, Mhlaba, Mlangeni & Motsoaledi sentenced to life imprisonment in the Pretoria Supreme Court for:
• Sabotage
• Conspiracy to sabotage and
• Furtherance of the aims of a prohibited organisation (The Communist Party of South Africa and the ANC).
1964
21 December
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the supply of military equipment to South Africa.
1964
30 December
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty [1955(xix) establishing the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.
1965
Whites in Zimbabwe rebel against the British government.
1965
Transkeian Police Act No 5:
Provided for a national policing service and the various powers vested in it.
Commenced: 6 January 1967
1965
The Indian Education Act is passed,placing Indian education under the control of the Department of Indian Affairs. In 1976, the SA Indian Council took over certain educational functions. Indian education was also made compulsory.
1965
Moroka Swallows win their first national championship (SASL - South African Soccer League).
Leeds United winger Albert 'śHurry-Hurry'ť Johanneson becomes the first Black South African (indeed the first Black ever) to play in an English FA Cup final (against Liverpool).
1965
20 January
It is reported in London that the British government will not issue a permit for the export of the ground-to-air missiles South Africa requires.
1965
22 January
Parliament opens with debate on a motion of ‘no confidence’ in the government in which the opposition attacks the separate development, Bantustan policy an the grounds that the creation of independent states could offer an entree for communism inside the Republic.
1965
25 January
Abram Fischer, Q.C., standing trial under the Suppression of Communism Act, fails to arrive in court, forfeits his bail and disappears. Letters are read in court enumerating the reasons for his action and making a bitter attack on government policy. A warrant of arrest is issued.
1965
30 January
Minister of Justice B.J. Vorster, tells Parliament that 1,095 people have been detained under the ninety-day clause during the eighteen months the imprisonn1ent~without4rial law has been in operation.
1965
5 February
The Prime Minister, speaking to the House of Assembly, states that territorial separation is not the essential part of the apartheid policy -political separation is. He will not hesitate to use force to ensure white domination in the white man’s own area.
1965
12 February
A proclamation applies a section of the Group Areas Act to all public places of recreation, including sporting events, theatres and concerts so that such places in white areas could not be frequented by non-whites and vice versa.
1965
13 February
The unofficial Dutch mission, under Professor W.G. de Gaay Fortman, coming to South Africa to discuss apartheid, is cancelled. The tour will no longer be undertaken because the government has refused permission for the mission to meet Dr. Albert Luthuli.
1965
25 February
Archbishop Owen McCann of Cape Town becomes South Africa’s first Cardinal when he is invested by Pope Paul in St Peter’s Basilica.
1965
26 February
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement between the International Atomic Energy Agency, South Africa and the United States for the application of safeguards.
1965
4 March
Prime Minister H.F. Verwoerd, discloses that the restriction on Seretse Khama, now Prime Minister of Bechuanaland, visiting South Africa has been lifted and friendly relations with Bechuanaland are now desired.
1965
6 March
Justice D.H. Botha, the Commissioner appointed to inquire into the activities of secret societies - the Broederbond, the Freemasons and the Sons of England - is unable to make any finding against any organizations.
1965
15 March
The prolonged hearing of the dispute over the constitutional position of South West Africa is resumed by the International Court of Justice at The Hague. Extensive evidence is led on behalf of South Africa.
1965
18 March
The Director-General of the South African Atomic Energy Board, announces in Pretoria that South Africa’s first nuclear reactor has ‘gone critical’
1965
24 March
Provincial Council elections show a sharp swing to the government side and shock the opposition UP. Although provincial, the campaigns are conducted on national, particularly racial, issues.
1965
30 March
The proposal is made that members of the International Court of Justice should make a personal visit to South West Africa, South Africa, Liberia, Ethiopia, and elsewhere in Africa as the Court might wish. The invitation is rejected.
1965
2 April
Twelve people are found guilty of charges brought under the Suppression of Communism Act, by being members of the Communist Party, taking part in its activities and furthering its aims. On 13 April they are sentenced to terms of imprisonment ranging from one to five years.
1965
6 April
The International Court of Justice at The Hague hears the arguments of Ethiopia and Liberia in the South West Africa cases presented by E.A. Gross of the New York Bar. It is alleged that South Africa has infringed its League of Nations Mandate by applying its racial policies in the territory.
1965
7 April
The United Nations Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid, meets and is informed of the executions in South Africa of W. Bongco and F.J. Harris for acts arising from their opposition to apartheid.
1965
9 April
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on the facilitation of international maritime traffic.
1965
13 April
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the temporary waiver from 1 July 1964 to 5 May 1965 of the margin of preference on flat white maize.
1965
22 April
South Africa:Signs agreement with Swaziland on air services.
1965
24 April
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, formally opens the Transkei Assembly Session, giving a preview of the more important legislation to be introduced. Bills include one to establish a separate Transkei flag and one to reorganize the Regional, Tribal and Community Authorities and consolidate existing legislation.
1965
29 April
South Africa:Signs treaty with Denmark, Norway and Sweden on the temporary amendment of the air agreements of 1958.
1965
30 April
The Indians Education Bill is passed, providing for the transfer of the control of education of Indians from the Provincial Councils to the Indian Affairs Department of the central government, despite opposition from the UP.
1965
4 May
Units of the SADF are now being equipped with a rifle made completely in South Africa. It is the R1-7.62 mm rifle, developed from the Belgian FN rifle, with improvements.
1965
7 May
The Deputy Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, M.C. Botha, announces in Parliament that Local Authorities must issue permits to householders who wish to have more than one servant sleeping on their premises. This is construed as a move to keep the suburbs white at night.
1965
8 May
The opposition leader Sir de Villiers Graaff, speaking in the Legislative Assembly, claims that the number of Africans in white areas will continue to increase indefinitely if the country’s rate of economic development is maintained.
Chief Leabua Jonathan, leader of the Basutoland National Party which is to form the Protectorate’s first government, tells political refugees that they are welcome to stay provided they do not use Basutoland as a base for operations against South Africa.
1965
12 May
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement amending the international sanitary regulations - WHO regulation no. 4.
1965
13 May
The Official Secrets Act Amendment Bill is passed. It is designed to prevent the publication of information which would hamper or nullify the operations of the security police.
1965
15 May
South Africa:Signs treaty with Portugal concerning SAA and TAP on air pooling.
1965
18 May
The Separate Representation of Voters Amendment Bill lays down that the four white Members of Parliament elected to represent Coloureds will sit for fixed five-year terms and will no longer be elected eight days before the White Parliamentary elections. The effect is to prolong the terms of the present M.P.s for Coloureds and postpone a new election for Coloured voters who might elect Progressive Party members.
1965
19 May
A Commission is appointed to inquire into an experiment involving twelve gold mines in which African miners have been employed.
1965
21 May
The Minister of Defence states that South Africa has already made progress in building up her own military power and is almost independent in the provision of small arms.
1965
22 May
Minister of Defence Fouché announces that R12m. had been spent on the defence radar screen in the Transvaal.
1965
25 May
South Africa:Signs agreement with Belgium on reciprocity regarding admission to medical practice.
1965
3 June
President Kaunda of Zambia says that an eight million Pound Sterling air base is being built by South Africa in the Caprivi Strip and accuses South Africa of warmongering. The Minister of Transport, B.J. Schoeman, replies that the air strip being constructed at Katimo Mulilo, is intended only for administrative purposes when roads in the Caprivi Strip are impassable.
1965
5 June
The Constitution Amendment Bill of South Africa provides for an increase in the number of members of Parliament from 160 to 170.
1965
7 June
The Police Amendment Bill, passed unopposed, empowers the police to search without warrant any person or premises within one mile of South Africa’s borders and to seize anything found. It is designed to combat the infiltration of saboteurs from other parts of Africa.
1965
10 June
South Africa:Signs agreement with Southern Rhodesia for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1965
15 June
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on arbitration for a global commercial communications system.
The Constitution Amendment Bill, published on 5 March 1965, but amended by a Select Committee provides that the number of Parliamentary seats will be increased by ten, and that the ‘loading’ and ‘unloading’ of constituencies should be applied on a country-wide instead of a provincial basis.
1965
19 June
The government has instructed its Ambassador to The Hague to inform the Dutch government of its displeasure over a grant of 100,000 guilders being made to the Defence and Aid Fund for assistance to the victims of apartheid. This is seen as interference in the domestic affairs of South Africa.
1965
22 June
The Suppression of Communism Amendment Bill authorizing the Minister of Justice to prohibit the publication of statements or writings of those furthering or defending the aims of Communism.
1965
25 June
The Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill is enacted. Among its provisions this Bill empowers the Attorney General to order the Court not to give bail to defendants and to arrest and detain, for up to six months before a trial, any state witness who might be open to intimidation, or be considered likely to abscond. The General Bar Council of South Africa criticizes the Bill as a grave interference with the rule of law and the administration of justice.
1965
25 June
Criminal Procedure Amendment Act No 96 (180-Day Detention Law):
Provided for 180-day detention and re-detention thereafter. The Attorney-General was empowered to order the detention of persons likely to give evidence for the state in any criminal proceedings relating to certain political or common-law offences. Unlike the ninety-day provision, this did not specify interrogation as part of the detention. Detainees could be held for six months in solitary confinement and only state officials were permitted access. No court had the jurisdiction to order the release of prisoners or to rule on the validity of the regulations under the Act.
Commenced: 25 June 1965
Repealed by s 344 of the Criminal Procedure Act No 51 of 1977 except for ss 319(3) and 384.
1965
1 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty for the extension of the International Wheat Agreement 1962.
The police raid the editorial offices of the Rand Daily Mail in Johannesburg and confiscate documents relating to a series of articles on prison conditions written by Harold Strachan.
1965
3 July
A restriction order is served on Harold Strachan of Durban in terms of the Suppression of Communism Act. He has already been imprisoned for three years for conspiring to cause explosions.
South Africa appoints ambassadors, R.H. Coaton to Argentina, J.C.H. Maree to Australia, A.A.M. Hamilton to Spain.
1965
8 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on transit trade of land-locked states.
1965
10 July
The Netherlands Foreign Minister Dr. Luns says at The Hague that the Dutch government’s gift of 20,000 Pounds Sterling to the Defence and Aid Fund is pledged to an organization legally active in South Africa for many years, and is part of their international care and responsibility role.
1965
5 August
South Africa’s first atomic reactor, Safari I, is opened by the Prime Minister at Pelindaba near Johannesburg. Nuclear power will be used for peaceful purposes only.
1965
8 August
Following the findings of the Viljoen Commission into the employment of African labour in twelve gold mines, the experiment is terminated. The Minister of Mines, J.W. Haak, says the government has decided that the colour-bar in the mining industry should be withdrawn.
1965
20 August
The Transkei Chief Minister, Chief Kaiser Matanzima, tells an election rally in the Umzimkulu District that the Transkei has been given self-government so that people can rule themselves according to their customs. He promises that European-owned farms will soon be bought by the South African government and distributed to the people.
1965
24 August
South Africa:Signs a treaty with Great Britain on the temporary waiver from 5 May 1965 to 7 January 1966 of the margin of preference on flat white maize.
1965
4 September
Dr. Verwoerd clearly indicates that no Maoris will be acceptable in any New Zealand rugby team visiting South Africa in future. There is a strong reaction in New Zealand to this declaration of policy.
1965
10 September
Regulations covering the detention of 180-days detainees held as witnesses, are published in the Government Gazette.
1965
21 September
The leader of the opposition United Party presents the party’s Race Federation Programme to delegates to the Natal Congress.
1965
13 October
William Rowntree is nominated as the new American ambassador to South Africa to replace J.C. Salterwaite, due to leave South Africa on 18 November 1965.
1965
14 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with France on air pooling, concerning SAA and UTA.
1965
19 October
New electoral divisions are defined and plans are open for inspection. 160 electoral divisions are provided for the House of Assembly - an increase of ten - and in addition there will be six for South West Africa and four for Cape Coloured voters.
1965
27 October
The Prime Minister opens a new international radio service, ‘The Voice of South Africa’, intended to counter the hostile propaganda beamed to the Republic from foreign sources.
1965
1 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on the prolongation of the International Sugar Agreement.
1965
2 November
Members of the Basutoland Congress Party demand the incorporation into Basutoland of ‘Congo Territory’, a large area of the Orange Free State, Natal and Eastern Cape Province.
1965
3 November
Following a decision of the Johannesburg Bar Council the name of Abram Fischer is struck off the roll of advocates.
1965
6 November
A R500,000 grant offered to the proposed new Afrikaans University in Johannesburg by the Johannesburg City Council, is accepted by the University Committee.
1965
9 November
Establishment by the Secretary-General of the United Nations Programme for the Education and Training Abroad of South Africans.
1965
11 November
On the eve of the Rhodesian Declaration of Independence, South Africa’s Prime Minister announces that South Africa will continue to maintain normal friendly relations with both Britain and Rhodesia, adopting an official neutral position.
Abram Fischer, Q.C. is re-arrested in Johannesburg.
1965
13 November
The Archbishop of Cape Town, the Most Reverend Robert Selby Taylor, says in his charge to the Synod of the Church of the Province of South Africa, constituted in Cape Town, that barriers erected to keep races apart are creating in the minds of many a serious conflict
1965
17 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement further extending the international wheat agreement of 1962.
1965
14 December
Accepts Procčs-verbal extending the declaration of 13 November 1962 on he provisional accession of Yugoslavia to the General Agreement of Tarrifs and Trade.
Accepts Procčs-verbal extending the declaration of 5 March 1966 on the provisional accession of Iceland to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1965
15 December
The United Nations General Assembly, in its twentieth session, passes a resolution strongly condemning the apartheid policies and calling for economic and diplomatic sanctions against South Africa.
1965
15 December
The General Assembly requested the Secretary-General to establish a United Nations Trust Fund for South Africa to provide humanitarian assistance to persons persecuted under discriminatory and repressive legislation in South Africa and to their dependants.
1965
20 December
A re-organisation of the South African Defence Force replaces the General Staff with a body to be known as the ‘Supreme Command’ with the Commandant-General as Chairman and the Executive Commanders as members.
1965
31 December
The government’s attitude to Rhodesia’s unilateral declaration of independence is defined by the Prime Minister, Dr. Verwoerd, when he says that South Africa will not be coerced into any form of boycott.
1966
Verwoerd is murdered in parliament and is succeeded by Prime Minister Voster.
1966
From Marianhill Steve Biko enters the Natal University's 'non-White' medical school, familiarly known as Wentworth. A vastly talented political analyst, he is soon elected to the Students' Representative (SRC) and through the SRC he is drawn into National Union of South African students (NUSAS) activities.
1966
Education Act No 9:
Enacted various schooling mechanisms.
Commenced: 6 January 1967
1966
Phyllis Naidoo is banned. She is arrested for ten days for breaking her banning order. She leaves for Lesotho where she becomes a victim of a parcel bomb
Dorothy Nyembe is released and banned for five years. She is restricted to the magisterial district of Durban
1966
Phyllis decides to study law.
1966
Derrick McBride, the father of Robert McBride, stops drinking while Robert is very young and buys a welding machine. He takes up part-time welding and carpentry classes.
1966
Sabata, nephew of the Tembu Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, dies. It was this latter chief to whom Henry Mandela entrusted his young son, Nelson Mandela.
1966
Kaiser Dalunonga Matanzima, a relative of Nelson Mandela, becomes Chief Minister of the apartheid 'bantustan' homeland of Transkei.
1966
The anti-racist SASL (South African Soccer League) folds due to lack of playing grounds.
1966
1 January
In a New Year message, Prime Minister Verwoerd emphasizes that South African policy is one of non-interference in the issues between Rhodesia and the United Kingdom. Regular relations will be maintained with both parties.
1966
28 January
The Prime Minister states that detention under the 180-day clause of the Criminal Procedure Amendment Act has been applied in the case of twenty-three people, all of whom were required as witnesses in criminal cases, including those against Abram Fischer and Fred Carneson.
1966
1 February
All South African refugees are to report to the Basutoland police for documentation or face deportation to South Africa. A closer check is to be kept on political asylum figures.
1966
4 February
Abram Fischer is committed for trial by a Pretoria magistrate. He pleads not guilty to all allegations.
1966
7 February
The Suppression of Communism Amendment Bill provides for the extension by a further year the power of the Minister of Justice to detain prisoners convicted under the Suppression of Communism Act for further periods after the expiry of their sentences. This power had been applied to Robert Sobukwe and his detention will be extended.
1966
25 February
Seven Africans are detained in the Transkei on an allegation of conspiracy to commit murder. Five are opposition members of the Legislative Council and the plot concerns the possible assassination of the Prime Minister, Chief Kaiser Matanzima.
1966
March
Phyllis is banned and restricted. No reason was ever given for these restrictions despite requests.
1966
18 March
The Defence and Aid Fund is banned as an unlawful organization under the Suppression of Communism Act. It is an autonomous South African body providing legal aid for persons accused of political offences and support for the families of political prisoners. The fund’s office in Cape Town, East London, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth are searched by police, as well as the homes of its office bearers, including that of the author, Alan Paton.
1966
18 March
Defence and Aid Fund declared an unlawful organisation in South Africa.
1966
23 March
Abram Fischer goes on trial in the Pretoria Supreme Court facing various charges of illegal activity, including membership of the Communist Party, conspiring to commit sabotage and to provide training for guerrilla warfare.
1966
28 March
The trial of Fred Carneson, a listed communist and former editor of New Age’ opens before the Supreme Court in Cape Town, the charges being sabotage and contravention of the Suppression of Communism Act on three counts. On 25 May he is sentenced to a total of five years and nine months’ imprisonment.
1966
29 March
South africa:Signs treaty with Zambia on postal services.
1966
30 March
Six political parties participate in the General Elections, with 356 candidates contesting 166 seats. The result is a sweeping victory for the National Party, who have a majority of eighty-two seats over the combined opposition. United Party members declined from forty-nine to thirty-nine, and the Progressive Party duly obtained one seat.
1966
1 April
An official list is published of forty-four people who have left South Africa and whose writings will not be allowed under the Suppression of Communism Act.
1966
6 April
The Chairman of the opposition Democratic Party in the Transkei, KM. Gunzana, is elected leader to succeed Paramount Chief Victor Poto who is to retire.
South Africa:Signs agreement with Italy on the postal administration between South Africa and Italy on the exchange of money orders.
1966
9 April
Following the victory of the National Party in the General Election, Dr. Verwoerd forms a new government.
1966
20 April
South Africa:Signs multilateral agreement on the further extension of the International Wheat Agreement, 1962.
1966
29 April
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the partial revision of radio regulations.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Denmark, Norway and Sweden on the extension of the period of validity of traffic rights at Zurich in respect of South African territory granted to SAS by the 1958 agreement.
1966
4 May
The court finds Abram Fischer guilty on all fifteen counts of the indictment, including alleged sabotage, Communist Party membership and being a contact between the South African Communist Party and its overseas committee in London.
1966
5 May
South Africa:Signs treaty with the Federal Republic of Germany on postal services.
South Africa:Signs treaty with the Federal Republic of Germany on postal services.
1966
6 May
Presidents Joaquim Chissano and Nelson Mandela sign an agreement to allow South African farmers to settle and farm in Mozambique.
1966
9 May
Abram Fischer is sentenced to life imprisonment on the charge of conspiracy with the ANC and Umkonto we Sizwe to commit sabotage and to twenty-four years’ imprisonment on six counts concerning Communist Party membership.
1966
10 May
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain for the release from the bound margin of preference on raw coffee.
1966
11 May
The President of the National Union of South Africa (NUSAS), Ian Robertson, receives a banning order under the Suppression of Communism Act.
1966
14 May
The government grants an amnesty in celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Republic. Over 30,000 prisoners stand to benefit.
1966
20 May
After the State President assents to the Transkei Flag Bill, the new ochre-red, white and green tri-colour of the Transkei is hoisted in the capital Umtata for the first time.
1966
31 May
The Republic celebrates its fifth anniversary with a massive military demonstration in Pretoria. A crowd of more than 500,000 sees nearly 20,000 troops and 200 aircraft take part in the proceedings.
1966
4 June
Senator Robert Kennedy arrives in South Africa as the guest of NUSAS. He speaks at several universities, meets ex-Chief Albert Luthuli, banned leader of the ANC, but at no time does any member of the government meet him and official hostility is evident.
1966
8 June
South Africa officially refuses an invitation to send representatives to an international seminar on apartheid, to be held in Brazil, in August and September 1966. The seminar is considered to be simply part of the political campaign waged against South Africa at the United Nations.
1966
22 June
A spokesman for the World Council of Churches says in Geneva that the government has refused permission for Bishop Zulu to attend the world conference on ‘Church and Society’ in July. The Anglican Prelate was to have been one of the eight conference presidents.
1966
30 June
Transkeian Authorities Amendment Act No 7:
Amended the list of authoritative bodies in the homeland.
Commenced: 30 June 1966
1966
July
Steve Biko attends the annual National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) Congress as an observer.
1966
7 July
South africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the temporary waiver of the margin of preference on flat white maize.
1966
16 July
The latest list of banned people totals 936 in three categories: 467 listed communists, 515 banned under the Suppression of Communism and Riotous Assembly Acts and three banned only under the Riotous Assemblies Acts. Forty-nine names are both listed as communists and banned.
1966
18 July
The International Court of Justice at The Hague rejects the complaints by Ethiopia and Liberia against South Africa, in which they alleged breaches of duties as the mandatory power to South West Africa, with the President of the Court, Sir Percy Spender of Australia, deciding the issue with his casting vote. The government welcomes this decision: the South West African National Union and SWAPO reject the decision absolutely.
1966
20 July
South Africa:Accepts the accession of Yugoslavia to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
South Africa:Signs a parcel post agreement with the Netherlands.
1966
29 July
Addressing the Senate, President Swart announces that legislation is to be introduced by the government to prohibit interference by one population group in the political affairs or institutions of another population group. It is aimed at thwarting Progressive Party plans to counter the four October elections of the four Coloured People’s representatives in the Assembly. On a different topic, he makes it clear that no proposal to leave the United Nations is at present being contemplated by the government.
1966
6 August
The Universities Amendment Act and the Extension of University Education Amendment Act give the Minister of Education Arts and Science, complete control over student life in South African universities.
1966
12 August
Under the Suppression of Communism Amendment Bill tabled in Parliament, any attorney or advocate who has committed an offence under the Act at any time is liable to be struck off the roll. Other clauses give the Minister of Justice powers to cut listed people off from contact with any organization he chooses to specify. The Bill is rejected outright by the Progressive Party member Helen Suzman.
1966
17 August
South Africa:Accepts the accession of Switzerland to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1966
22 August
South Africa:Signs agreement with the Union Castle Co. on ocean-freight.
1966
23 August
The South African Minister of Posts and Telegraphs complains that Radio Tanzania’s broadcasts from Dar-es-Salaam are interfering with broadcasts in South Africa.
1966
23 August - 4 August
International Seminar on Apartheid, Brasilia, organised by the UN Division of Human Rights, the Special Committee against Apartheid and the Government of Brazil - the first of scores of conferences and seminars on apartheid organised or co-sponsored by the United Nations.
1966
23 August - 4 September
International Seminar on Apartheid, Brasilia, organised by the UN Division of Human Rights, the Special Committee against Apartheid and the Government of Brazil - the first of scores of conferences and seminars on apartheid organised or co-sponsored by the United Nations.
1966
6 September
The Prime Minister, Dr. H.F. Verwoerd, is fatally stabbed in the House of Assembly by Demitrio Tsafendas, a messenger who had been serving the Press Gallery. Dr. T.E. DOnges, the Minister of Finance, temporarily takes over the duties of Prime Minister.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Botswana on air transport between Bechuanaland National Airways (BNA) and South African Railways and Harbours.
1966
8 September
South Africa:Signs guarantee agreement with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
1966
10 September
Dr. Verwoerd is buried in Hero’s Acre, Pretoria. A mile-long cortege is watched on its three-mile journey by a crowd of some 250,000 people.
1966
12 September
Minister of Defence Botha announces in Cape Town that the posts of Secretary for Defence and Commandant-General of the Defence Force are to be combined under one head.
1966
13 September
The Parliamentary caucus of the National Party unanimously elects B.J. Vorster, Minister of Justice, as its new leader. He automatically becomes Prime Minister, promises to uphold Dr. Verwoerd’s policies and will retain the Cabinet Portfolio of Police, temporarily.
1966
14 September
Justice van Wyk of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court is appointed as a one-man Commission to inquire into all aspects of the assassination.
1966
27 September
The United Nations General Assembly votes by 114 votes to two (South Africa and Portugal), with three abstentions (Britain, France and Malawi) to terminate the mandate and to declare the administration of South West Africa to be the responsibility of the United Nations. The government views the Resolution as illegal and unconstitutional, and proposes to ignore it.
1966
October - 17 October
Tsafendas is brought to trial before the Judge-President of the Cape Provincial
1966
5 October
A new Afrikaans-medium university is established in Johannesburg, the Rand Afrikaans University.
1966
13 October
The General Laws Amendment Bill of 1966 is published. The bill entitles police officers to detain up to fourteen days anyone suspected of offences against security.
1966
21 October
D. Tsafendas, accused of assassinating Dr. Verwoerd in the House of Assembly, is committed to detention in prison at the State Presidents pleasure.
1966
26 October
The General Assembly decided - in resolution 2142A (XXI) to proclaim 21 March as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Many delegations had proposed that date as it was the anniversary of the Sharpeville massacre of 1960.
1966
26 October
The General Assembly decided - in resolution 2142A (XXI) to proclaim 21 March as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Many delegations had proposed that date as it was the anniversary of the Sharpeville massacre of 1960.
1966
26 October
Group Areas Act No 36:
While in theory this was not discriminatory legislation, it was implemented in a way that was advantageous to whites (Dugard 1978: 82).
Commenced: 26 October 1966
Repealed by s 48 of the Abolition of Racially Based Land Measures Act No 108 of 1991.
1966
1 November
The United Nations General Assembly adopts a fifty-four nation resolution by 114 to 2 against (South Africa and Portugal) with three abstentions (Malawi, France and Great Britain) calling for the establishment of a fourteen-member ad hoc Committee to recommend practical means for the administration of South West Africa. The Assembly also decides that South Africa’s Mandate over SWA is terminated.
1966
3 November
The government announces that President Swart will retire on 31 May 1967.
1966
4 November
Industrial Conciliation Further Amendment Act No 61:
Prohibited strikes and lock-outs for any purpose unconnected with the employee/employer relationship (Horrell 1978: 279).
Commenced: 4 November 1966
Repealed by Labour Relations Act No 66 of 1995.
1966
4 November
General Law Amendment Act No 62:
Designed in response to guerrilla activities on the northern borders of the then South West Africa (Dugard 1978: 116). Section 22(1) was amended to provide for the detention of suspected ‘terrorists’ for up to fourteen days for purposes of interrogation. The Commissioner of Police could apply to a judge to have the detention order renewed. This was essentially a forerunner of the 1967 Terrorism Act.
Commenced: 4 November 1966
Sections 3-6 & 22 repealed by the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982
1966
7 November
The government announces that President Swart will retire on 31 May 1967.
1966
11 November
Signs multilateral agreement on telecommunications and treaties of 21 October 1965.
1966
14 November
Signs treaty with Portugal (for Angola) on air transport.
1966
17 November
Accepts Procčs-verbal extending the declaration on the provisional accession of the United Arab Republic to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1966
25 November
The new British Ambassador to South Africa, Sir John Nicholls, presents his credentials to the State President
1966
28 November
The Bantu Administration Minister MC. Botha, announces measures leading to the creation of South Africa’s second ‘homeland’ in the Northern Transvaal.
1966
29 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Malawi on postal services.
1966
30 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the safety of life at sea.
1966
14 December
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on load lines.
1966
14 December
The Minister of Agricultural Technical Services, J.J. Fouche, claims that South Africa is strong enough to withstand sanctions for at least three years.
1966
20 December
The United Nations General Assembly passes a draft Resolution, by eighty-seven votes to one (Portugal) and twelve abstentions, indicating that the situation in South Africa constitutes a threat to international peace and that universally applied mandatory economic sanctions are the only means of achieving a peaceful solution.
1966
28 December
The Lesotho government announces it will deport eight South Africans, whom it describes as a danger to peace.
1967
MK began a joint campaign with ZAPU, a people's army fighting for the liberation of Zimbabwe. They aimed to find a route into South Africa by first crossing the Zambezi River from Zambia and into Zimbabwe, then marching across Zimbabwe through Wankie Game reserve, and crossing the Limpopo River into South Africa.
1967
The formation of the University Christian Movement (UCM).
1967
Environmental Planning Act No 88:
Placed restrictions on the number of blacks who could be employed in the manufacturing industry in the larger industrial areas.
Assent gained: 19 June 1967; commencement date not found
IN FORCE: LAND.
1967
The National Education Policy Act setting out the principles of Christian National Education (CNE) for white schools, is promulgated.
1967
Sarah Carneson is imprisoned for breach of her banning order.
1967
1 January
South Africa:Signs multilateral Sugar Agreement of 1958.
1967
10 January - 11 January
B.J. Vorster and Chief Jonathan of Lesotho meet in Cape Town. A joint statement emphasizes their belief in peaceful co-existence. Economic aid and technical assistance are also proposed.
1967
11 January
The projected North Sotho ‘nation’ in the Northern Transvaal province is to run its own affairs of state. Matters passing to its control include education, finance, justice, public works, agriculture, forestry and community development.
1967
18 January
A report prepared by UNESCO, published in Paris, states that the policy of apartheid ‘is not only an inadmissable answer to the racial and group conflict, but is itself the major cause of racial and group conflict there’. The report is based essentially on official government publications and reports from scientific and research institutions within and outside South Africa relating to discriminatory practices.
The Lesotho government invites all South African political refugees to make formal application to leave the country, to indicate proposed dates of departure and countries of choice. Transit rights through South Africa will be arranged.
1967
19 January
The National Party Parliamentary caucus nominates Dr. T.E. Donges, Minister of Finance since 1958 as candidate for the Presidency, on a second ballot. The United Party opposition nominates Major Piet van der Byl.
1967
24 January
Prime Minister B.J. Vorster announces in Cape Town that Dr. Donges, nominated as the government’s candidate for the Presidency, has tendered his resignation as Minister of Finance. His portfolio is to be taken over by Dr. Diederichs. Mr. J.W. Haak becomes Minister of Economic Affairs and Dr. Carel de Wet, South African Ambassador in London will take over the portfolio of Mines and Planning.
1967
27 January
The head of the South African Defence Force, Commandant General Hiemstra, announces the successful conclusion of Anglo-South African talks on aspects of the Simonstown naval agreement for the defence of sea routes around Southern Africa.
1967
7 February
A bill is published, which requires every Coloured male between the ages 18-24 to register for selective service in training camps. It is passed in Committee on 8 March and approved 9 March 1967.
1967
8 February
A spokesman for the Royal Navy that the British Command at Simonstown Naval Base will close on 12 April 1967. South Africa will in future assume greater responsibility for the defence of the sea route around the Cape.
1967
15 February
Suppression of Communism Further Amendment Bill is approved by 106 votes to forty at its third reading. It is made retrospective to 27 June 1962.
1967
18 February
The government drops two Bills which were designed to enforce racial segregation on university campuses.
1967
22 February
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, discloses that South Africa’s northern borders are protected by a radar complex constituting an early warning system and that her coasts will be covered by the Decca navigational system costing R6m.
1967
28 February
The electoral college elects T.E. Donges as the next State President by 163 votes to fifty-two, cast for Major van der Byl.
1967
2 March
The Population Registration Amendment Bill, with reference to racial legislation concerning the Coloured population, is published. The President is empowered to define, by proclamation, the ethnic and other groups into which Coloured persons and Blacks may be classified.
1967
3 March
An official announcement by the government of Lesotho indicates that preparations for anti-South African political refugees to be flown from Lesotho across South Africa to other African states to the north have reached an advanced stage.
South Africa:Signs multilateral Convention on the International Hydrographic
1967
4 March
Dr. Theophilus Ebenhaezer Donges, is elected South Africa’s second State President and will assume office on Republic Day, 31 May 1967.
1967
6 March
The Commission on Human Rights deplored the actions of the South African Government as "contrary to international law and international morality".
1967
8 March
Suppression of Communism Act No 24:
Prohibited certain persons from making or receiving donations for the benefit of certain organisations; prohibited others from practising as advocates, attorneys, notaries and conveyances, and extended the grounds for deporting people from the Republic.
Commenced: 8 March 1967
Repealed by s 73 of the Internal Security Act 74 of 1982.
1967
13 March
Discussions are conducted with Malawi on the occasion of a visit to South Africa by three Malawian Cabinet ministers.
South Africa:Signs treaties with Denmark, Sweden and Norway regarding the extension of the period of validity of the traffic rights at Zurich in respect of South African territory granted to SAS.
South Africa:Signs trade agreement with Malawi.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Lesotho on the amendment of the insured parcel agreement of 27 June 1963 and 1 July 1963.
1967
27 March - 31 March
The project of a dam across the Zambezi River at Cahora Bassa in Mozambique, involving the building of a hydro-electric power station, is discussed at talks with the South African government in Lisbon.
1967
31 March
A government spokesman in Gaborone, indicates that Botswana intends to curb the activities of 200 South African political refugees.
1967
8 April
The government publishes a Bill entitled the Prohibition of Mixed Marriages (Amendment) Bill. In effect, marriage between a white South African man and a ‘non-white’ woman, even if they were married abroad, will not be recognized in South Africa.
1967
19 April
The Minister of Defence announces in Paris that he has signed an agreement for the purchase of French submarines of the Daphne class, their cost being the equivalent of twelve million Pounds Sterling.
1967
19 April
Prime Minister B.J. Vorster declares at the opening of the Sixth Session of the Transkei Legislative Assembly that the government will assist blacks in their development and will transfer more functions and responsibilities to the government of the Transkei as the latter becomes able to handle them efficiently.
1967
26 April
A draft resolution on South West Africa is submitted to a special session of the United Nations General Assembly by fifty-six countries. It declares that obstruction to its proposals by South Africa will constitute a flagrant defiance of the authority of the United Nations and requests the Security Council to take enforcement action.
1967
May
President Banda of Malawi visited South Africa.
1967
3 May
An official announcement by the government of Lesotho indicates that preparations for anti-South African political refugees to be flown from Lesotho across South Africa to other African states to the north have reached an advanced stage.
South Africa:Signs multilateral Convention on the International Hydrographic Organisation.
1967
15 May
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the extension of the International Wheat Agreement.
1967
19 May
The United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution establishing an eleven member United Nations Council for South West Africa to administer the Territory and to enter immediately into contact with South Africa to lay down procedures for its transfer. The resolution is supported by eighty-five votes, two against (Portugal and South Africa) and thirty abstentions, including the USSR, the United States, Great Britain and France.
1967
31 May
Senator J.F. Naudę becomes Acting State President, following the incapacitation of Dr. T.E. Donges. He is sworn in on 1 June 1967.
1967
6 June
The Physical Planning and Utilization of Resources Bill is enacted.
1967
9 June
The Defence Amendment Bill, designed to make military service compulsory for practically all white young men, is passed with the support of the opposition.
1967
14 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1967
21 June
The General Laws Amendment Bill or ‘Terrorism Bill’ which makes terrorism a separate offence to be equated with treason is gazette. Under its terms terrorism is defined as including acts committed with intent to endanger the maintenance of law and order and conspiracy or incitement to this end. It is made retrospective to 27 June 1962.
1967
22 June
South Africa:Signs treaty with Norway on a scientific project.
1967
27 June
Terrorism Act No 83:
According to Horrell (1978: 473), this Act signalled the beginning of the struggle against ‘Red arms’ as opposed to purely ‘Red ideology’. It authorised indefinite detention without trial on the authority of a policeman of or above the rank of lieutenant colonel. The definition of terrorism was very broad and included most criminal acts. No time limit was specified for detention; it could be continued until detainees had satisfactorily replied to all questions or no useful purpose would be served by continued detention. Fortnightly visits by magistrates were provided for ‘if circumstances permit’. No other visitors were permitted. The Act was operative retrospectively to 27 June 1962 and also applied to South West Africa retrospectively (Horrell 1978: 445). It differed from the ninety-day and 180-day detention laws in that the public was not entitled to information relating to the identity and number of people detained under the Terrorism Act (Dugard 1978: 118).
Commenced: 27 June 1962
All sections except s 7 repealed by s 33 of the Internal Security and Intimidation Amendment Act 138 of 1991.
1967
July
Thirty-seven Africans are charged in Pretoria under the Terrorism Act. The State alleges that the accused have engaged in terrorist activity in South West Africa between June 1962 and May 1967. Defence contends that the Terrorist Act cannot apply to South West Africa, which is mandated territory but this argument is rejected by the court.
The Portuguese Foreign Minister, Dr. A.F. Nogueira visits South Africa for talks with B.J. Vorster concerning regional co-operation. 4 July 1967 Signs multilateral agreement for the accession of the Republic of Korea to the General Agreement on Tarrifs and Trade.
1967
July
Steve Biko participates in the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) Congress as a Wentworth Delegate. The congress sees bitter reactions from Black students when Rhodes University, the host institution, prohibits mixed accommodation or eating facilities at the conference site. A group of Black students (led by Steve Biko) begin to seriously analyse their political predicament in National Union of South African Students (NUSAS)
1967
July
(edit) Chief Luthuli is knocked down and killed by a train while taking his routine walk on a familiar route at Groutville.
1967
17 July
South Africa:Extends treaty with the United States on the civil uses of atomic energy of 8 July 1957.
1967
21 July
Chief Albert Luthuli is killed in suspicious circumstances while walking along a railway line.
1967
21 July
Albert Luthuli, Nobel Peace Prize winner and former President of the banned ANC, dies.
1967
21 July
Albert Luthuli is killed after being struck by a train on a narrow railway bridge near his home in Groutville.
1967
23 July
3 000 people gather in the church at Groutville to attend Luthuli's memorial service and to see Mrs Nokukhanya Luthuli unveil the memorial stone which has been erected on his grave.
1967
24 July
Fietas, Johannesburg: Mr. Mahomed Suliman Bhana is released and given a remission of ten days for good behaviour.
1967
26 July
South Africa:Signs treaty with Italy on the amendment of the air agreement of the 21 May 1956.
1967
30 July
Dr. Raymond Hoffenberg of Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town and senior lecturer at the University of Cape Town Medical School, is banned under the Suppression of Communism Act. No explanation is given and the order leads to immediate protests by University staff and students.
1967
30 July - 31 July
The 'Luthuli Combat Detachment', comprising ZAPU and ANC guerillas, crossed the Zambesi into Rhodesia at the start of the Wankie and Sipolilo battles lasting until late 1968.
1967
1 August
South Africa:Signs treaty with Malawi relating to the employment and documentation of Malawi nationals in South Africa.
1967
4 August
The Defence Amendment Act comes into force, under which every young white male will be liable for military service. The amendments are based on making all medically fit citizens, except for those who join the permanent force, the South African police, the railways or prison services, liable for military training. Expenditure on citizen forces and commando training will increase by almost R1m. in 1968 to an estimated figure of about R30m.
1967
11 August
HI. Vorster says in Koffiefontein, Orange Free State, that the restrictions imposed on Dr. Hoffenberg are attributable to his promotion of the aims and objects of communism.
1967
13 August
Umkhonto and ZAPU guerillas engaged Rhodesian forces in Wankie (now Hwange) Game Reserve, near border of Zambia and Botswana.
1967
18 August
ANC and ZAPU announced military alliance.
1967
September
B.J. Vorster became Prime Minister. Launched "outward policy.
1967
1 September
Labour Laws Amendment Act No 4:
Amended South African labour laws for Transkei.
Commenced: 1 September 1967
1967
8 September
It is officially disclosed that South African police are in Rhodesia actively helping in the fight against Nationalist guerrillas. This follows an attempt by several hundred guerrillas to invade South and South West Africa, from Zambia, at the urging of the Liberation Committee of the OAU in Kampala in July 1967.
Prime Minister B.J.. Vorster announces the arrest of a fully trained KGB agent, Yuri N. Loginov, in Johannesburg, while on a special mission to South Africa. His arrest arouses widespread interest among Western intelligence services.
1967
10 September
At the opening of the Malawi Congress Party’s (MCP) annual congress at Mzuzu, President Banda announces that formal diplomatic relations will be established between Malawi and South Africa at legation level by 1 January 1968.
Speaking at a special news conference the Rhodesian Prime Minister, Ian Smith, welcomes the participation of the South African Police in Rhodesian anti-terrorist operations.
1967
10 September
South Africa and Malawi announced decision to establish relations.
1967
23 September
Addressing a National Party rally at Volksrust, the Prime Minister, B.J. Vorster says that South Africa’s fight against foreign-trained terrorists will continue in any area where South Africa is allowed to fight. He defends South Africa’s decision to send police to Rhodesia.
1967
27 September
South Africa:Signs treaty with Lesotho on air services.
1967
October
Helen Joseph, placed under house arrest for five years in 1962, is similarly restricted for a further five years.
1967
6 October
A Bill is introduced into the Lesotho parliament providing for the extradition of fugitives from the Republic of South Africa.
1967
8 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the principles governing the activities of states in the exploration and use of outer space.
1967
17 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the conservation of Atlantic tunas (with final act and resolution adopted by the conference of plenipotentlarles).
1967
21 October
Rhodesian Prime Minister, Ian Smith, arrives in Pretoria by military aircraft, accompanied by his Minister of Law and Order, D. Lardner-Burke, for talks with HI. Vorster. Rhodesian constitutional questions and Rhodesia’s relationship with Britain are discussed.
1967
25 October
South Africa:Signs amendment to multilateral treaty on the safety of life at sea.
1967
November
The Chairman of the Resources and Planning Council visits Malawi and endorses President Banda’s plan to build a new capital in Lilongwe. To this end South Africa agrees to provide finance for the first building phase.
1967
8 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Austria on the state of the Commonwealth war cemetery at Klagenfurt.
1967
13 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Belgium on air services.
1967
15 November
South africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on consular privileges.
1967
17 November
The Malawi Ministry of External Affairs announces that the first Malawi Chargé d’Affaires in South Africa will be P. Richardson. He will take up his post on 11 December 1967 and present his credentials the following day.
1967
21 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on the temporary suspension of the margin of preference on tin plate.
1967
December
Dr. Christiaan Barnard makes medical history by transplanting the first heart to a man dying of terminal heart ailments.
1967
3 December
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, announces a reshuffle of senior defence force posts to increase the efficiency of the country’s Defence Department, the Defence Production Board and the Defence Organisation. Consequently Lieutenant-General C.A. Fraser, at present Chief of the Army, becomes Joint Commander, Combat Forces, in which capacity he will take command in times of war or emergency, of the fighting formations of Army and Air Force elements.
1967
11 December
JF. Wenzel presents his credentials to President Banda as South Africa’s first Chargé d’Affaires and head of legation in Malawi.
1967
13 December
At the twenty-first session of the United Nations, South Africa’s apartheid policies are condemned as ‘a crime against humanity’.
1967
14 December
Britain continues its ban on arms supplies to South Africa.
1967
30 December
The Foreign Minister Dr: Muller apologizes to Zambia for the actions of the five members of the South African police detained on the Victoria Falls Bridge by the Zambian authorities on 29 December 1967. They are released on 12 January 1968.
1967
31 December
Prime Minister HI. Vorster warns that the government would re-assess the Simonstown agreement during 1968. This reaction follows the British government’s decision to maintain the South African arms embargo.
1968
Attempts at opening the “Eastern Front” in Zimbabwe are made, after fierce encounters; ANC-ZAPU units are forced to withdraw to Zambian territory.
1968
Separate Representation of Voters Amendment Act No 50:
The Coloured Persons Representative Council was formed with forty elected members and twenty nominated members. It had legislative powers to make laws affecting coloureds on finance, local government, education, community welfare and pensions, rural settlements and agriculture. No bill could be introduced without the approval of the Minister of Coloured Relations, nor could a bill be passed without the approval of the white Cabinet (Dugard 1978: 98).
Assent gained: 27 March 1968; commencement date not found
Repealed by s 101(1) of the Republic of South Africa Constitution Act No 110 of 1983.
1968
Prohibition of Political Interference Act No 51:
Prohibited non-racial political parties (ss 1 & 2) and foreign financing of political parties (s 3). The Act was later renamed the ‘Prohibition of Foreign Financing of Political Parties Act’ by the 1985 Constitutional Affairs Amendment Act.
Sections 1 and 2 relating to the ban on non-racial political parties repealed by the same Act (No 104) of 1985.
Section 3 repealed by Abolition of Restrictions on Free Political Activity Act No 206 of 1993.
1968
Sarah Carneson goes into exile in the UK where she works for the Trade Union Movement.
Florence Matomela is released from prison and banned.
Dorothy Nyembe is arrested again, detained and tortured
1968
3 January
The State President-elect, Dr. Theophilus Ebenaeser Donges, dies after a long illness.
1968
30 January
South Africa:Signs a modification to the annexure of the air agreement of 19 October 1959 with Switzerland.
1968
1 February
J.J Fouché is nominated and unanimously elected President following the death of Dr. T.E. Donges.
1968
2 February
Accepts the accession of Poland to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
Accepts the accession of Argentina to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
1968
4 February
The Prime Minister of Lesotho, Chief Jonathan, is reported to be prepared to co-operate with the South African government.
1968
7 February - 8 February
Mr. Fouchë, the newly elected President, resigns from the cabinet and institutes changes in the government. D.C.H. Uys becomes the newly designated Minister of Agriculture and of Water Affairs and M.C.G.J. van Rensburg takes over the Posts and Telegraphs portfolio.
1968
9 February
Mr. Justice Ludorf, presiding judge in the Pretoria terrorist trial, imposes sentences on the thirty accused of conspiring to overthrow the South West Africa administration. All are sentenced to imprisonment, nineteen to life, nine to twenty years, and two to five years.
1968
15 February
The International Olympics Committee (IOC) decides to re-admit South Africa to the Olympic Games. The government has made five relevant concessions and the country is expected to participate in the Mexico City Olympics late in 1968.
1968
16 February
The Commission, headed by S.L. Muller, appointed to study political interference and representation of population groups publishes its report. Its recommendations, which feature in subsequent legislation, are debated in the House of Assembly in late February and early March 1968.
1968
22 February
The Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Amendment Bill is adopted against the opposition of the United and Progressive Parties.
1968
26 February
The South African Indian Council Bill, dealing with the affairs of the Indian Population, is passed with the support of the Opposition. It establishes the Council as a statutory body with twenty-five nominated members. No Indian ‘homeland’ is to be established.
1968
28 February
Prime Minister Vorster announces that the new Coloured Persons Representative Council will be comprise forty elected and twenty nominated members. It will take over from the existing Council of Coloured Affairs and will have extended legislative and administrative powers.
The Ivory Coast Foreign Minister urges African nations to seek a dialogue with South Africa.
1968
12 March
P.W. Botha, the Minister of Defence, reports to the Senate on the progress of the Arms Industry and defines the main aims of South Africa’s defence policy.
1968
14 March
The United Nations Security Council censures South Africa for its flagrant defiance of Council Resolution 245 (1968) calling for the freeing of the dependents in the South West Africa ‘Terrorism’ trial and demands that South Africa release and repatriate them.
1968
21 March
South Africa:Signs treaty with Malawi on air transport.
1968
26 March
Three Bills dealing with the future of the Coloured population are introduced: the Prohibition of Improper Interference Bill; the Separate Representation of Voters Amendment Bill, and the Representative Council Amendment Bill. All are adopted during 1968.
1968
26 March
South African Indian Council Act No 31:
Established the Council consisting of twenty-five members appointed by the Minister of Indian Affairs. The number was increased to thirty members, of which fifteen were appointed by the Minister and fifteen indirectly through electoral colleges in the provinces (Dugard 1978: 100). Unlike the Coloured Persons Representative Council, the South African Indian Council was not granted legislative powers.
Commenced: 26 March 1968
Repealed by s 23 of the Republic of South Africa Constitution Act No 110 of 1983.
1968
27 March
South Africa:Signs agreement with France with regard to the launching of the eole balloons.
1968
27 March
Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Amendment Act No 21:
Invalidated any marriage entered into outside South Africa between a male citizen and a woman of another racial group (Dugard 1978: 69).
Commenced: 27 March 1968
Repealed by the Immorality and Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Amendment Act No 72 of 1985.
1968
28 March
Raymond Hoffenberg leaves South Africa on an exit permit, without possibility of return, to take up a research and consultant’s post in London founded for him by the British Medical Council. Later, on 23 April 1968, Prime Minister Vorster reiterates that he fully agrees with the restrictions placed upon him in South Africa.
1968
3 April
The Prime Minister announces that the five ‘non-White’ University Colleges - those of Fort Hare, Zululand and the North, of the Western Cape and of Durban-Westville - will be released from their association with the University of South Africa, will be called universities and will, subject to certain conditions, be free to provide for their own teaching and conduct of examinations.
1968
5 April
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, tells the House of Assembly that countries aiding and inciting terrorism and guerrilla warfare against South Africa could provoke retaliation against them. This is interpreted as a warning to Zambia that ‘terrorist’ bases there could be attacked by South Africa.
The United Nations Council for South West Africa leaves New York for London on its way to SWA, in an attempt to discharge the functions and responsibilities entrusted to it by the Assembly.
1968
8 April
The Minister of Finance states that South Africa is not bound to any particular market and will therefore sell its gold wherever it was to its best long-term interest.
1968
10 April
J.J Fouché is inducted as President in Cape Town.
1968
18 April
The United Nations Council for South West Africa decides to return to New York from Dar-es-Salaam following problems over the chartering of aircraft and the denial of landing clearance in South West Africa.
1968
22 April - 13 May
The International Conference on Human Rights is held in Teheran. A resolution is adopted condemning the South African government for its apartheid policy.
1968
30 April
The bill establishing five universities for blacks, releasing their association with the University of South Africa, comes into force.
1968
May
South Africa appoints a military attaché to the South African Legation in Malawi.
1968
4 May
In terms of the Armaments Development and Production Bill, the Armaments Development and Production Corporation of South Africa (ARMSCOR) will take over and expand the undertakings of the Armaments Board, establish new undertakings, and assist other companies in the production of armaments. The Bill provides for a share capital of R100 in., or more.
1968
8 May
The South African government decides to finance the first phase of the construction of a new railway line between Southern Malawi and Mozambique. The contract for the construction is awarded to a South African consortium.
1968
20 May
South Africa:Signs agreement with France relating to the certificates of airworthiness for imported aircraft.
1968
21 May
The Coloured Persons-Representative Council Amendment Bill is adopted after is final reading in the Senate, with the support of the Opposition. It provides for the enlargement of the existing Council, to one of forty elected and twenty nominated members, for giving it a limited measure of jurisdiction over Coloured affairs (education, pensions and local government) and for a Budget of about R50,000,000 per annum.
The Prohibition of Improper Interference Bill passes it final stages in Parliament, against the votes of the Opposition. It prohibits multiracial membership of political parties, participation in the affairs of political parties belonging to one racial group by members of another group or acceptance by political parties of funds from abroad
The Separate Representation of Voters Amendment Bill is passed, which extends the term of office of white representatives of Coloureds until 1971 and provides that such representation will then end.
1968
1 June
The government announces, in a White Paper, plans to reorganize the administration of South West Africa which will give Pretoria considerably more authority over the affairs of the Territory. The White Paper stresses the complete legality of the proposed new arrangement.
1968
5 June
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on wheat trade.
1968
17 June
The United Nations General Assembly proclaims that South West Africa shall henceforth be known as ‘Namibia’ and condemns South Africa for its refusal to withdraw from the territory.
1968
26 June
Following official meetings held in Sweden (15-19 June) and later in Britain, the United Nations Special Committee on the Policies of Apartheid appeals for factual and statistical information to be given about countries still supplying arms to South Africa, and proposes that freedom fighters in South Africa be recognized as prisoners-of-war under the Geneva Convention.
1968
28 June
South Africa:Signs an amendment to the air transport agreement of 23 May 1947 with the United States.
1968
July
At the Annual NUSAS (National Union of South African Students) Congress, Steve Biko and some of his fellow medical students begin to draw black students into a candid discussion on their second-class role within the union.
Later, Biko begins to actively promote the idea of an all-black university movement at a University Christian Movement(UCM) meeting in Stutterheim.
1968
1 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
1968
3 July
Dangerous Weapons Act No 71:
Prohibited the possession of weapons which could cause bodily injury if used in an assault. The Minister of Justice could prohibit the possession or manufacture or supply of such objects.
Commenced: 3 July 1968
IN FORCE (as amended by the Dangerous Weapons Amendment Act No 156 of 1993): ARMS AND AMMUNITION.
1968
4 July - 19 July
At a meeting of the World Council of Churches in Sweden, the Rt Rev A.H. Zulu, Bishop of Zululand and Swaziland, Church of the Province of South Africa (Anglican) is elected as one of the presidents.
1968
9 July - 15 July
University Christian Movement (UCM) Second Annual Conference held at Stutterheim, attended by 150 students (majority non-white), faculty, chaplains.
1968
11 July
Ratifies a treaty with Switzerland on the avoidance of double taxation with respect to taxes on income.
1968
17 July
The Minister of Health, Dr. A. Hertzog, says there can be no exception to the government’s policy of differential salaries for the various race groups.
1968
18 July
The Minister of Finance attacks the United States and other former ‘gold pool’ countries for attempting to reduce the monetary role of gold.
1968
23 July
The new French ambassador to South Africa, Baron Philippe de Luze, presents his credentials to President Fouché.
1968
9 August
Prime Minister Vorster reorganizes his cabinet in order to strengthen the ‘verligte’ enlightened elements in the government. Four new cabinet ministers are appointed: Community Development and Public Works, Biaar Coetzee; Interior and Police, S.L. Muller; Water Affairs and Forestry. S.P. Botha, information. Social Welfare, Pensions and Immigration, C.P. Mulder.
1968
12 August
Over 5,000 soldiers supported by tanks, armoured cars and air force units begin manoeuvres in an exercise code named Operation Subasa designed to test the ability of South African defence forces to deal with terrorist activities.
1968
14 August
Widespread student protests are held against the banning by the government of the appointment of an African lecturer, A. Mafeje, to a post in the Department of Social Anthropology at the University of Cape Town. Prime Minister, Vorster subsequently threatens to take action against student protests if the University authorities do not do so in reasonable time.
1968
16 August
Prime Minister Vorster says that the number of diplomats from African and Asian countries can be expected to increase as South Africa’s policies become better understood. His task is to ensure that Southern Africa remains free from the threat of communism.
1968
20 August
A special conference of National Party office-bearers in Pretoria endorses Prime Minister Vorster’s policies concerning the admission of black diplomats, cooperation between English and Afrikaans speaking South Africans and sport, in which racial segregation will be maintained.
1968
September
The Minister of National Education, Senator Jan de Klerk, announces the appointment of a Commission of Inquiry into Universities in the Republic, under the chairmanship of Justice J. van Wyk de Vries, with the mission of investigating all aspects of university life.
1968
4 September
South Africa:Signs an extradition agreement with Swaziland.
1968
9 September
A new nationalist party in Dar-es-Salaam, the National Liberation Front of South Africa (NALFSA), formed to direct the freedom struggle inside South Africa, applies for recognition of the OAU’s African Liberation Committee.
1968
17 September
Prime Minister Vorster criticizes the decision to include a coloured cricketer, Basil d’Oliveira, in the British MCC team to tour South Africa in 1968. South African sports policy does not permit this, and the MCC is asked to cancel the tour.
1968
22 September
A Commission of the South African Council of Churches publishes a report condemning apartheid as a false faith hostile to Christian belief.
1968
24 September
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the authentic trilingual text of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.
1968
25 September
The appeal of the thirty-one members of SWAPO against their conviction for acts of terrorism is to be heard by the full bench of the eleven judges of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court in Bloemfontein. International concern is based on the argument that South Africa lacks jurisdiction over Namibia following the United Nations decision in 1966 to revoke its mandate over the territory.
1968
8 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the principles governing the activities of states in the exploration and use of outer space.
1968
9 October
Defence Minister Botha announces that a missile base for experimental tests and launchings is to be established on the Zululand coast about 150 miles north of Durban. This site will be of great strategic importance for the defence of the sub-continent.
1968
12 October
The Secretary-General of the Supreme African Sports Council, J.-G. Ganga, says he will admit white South Africans to the African Games provided that competitions in South Africa are held without racial discrimination.
1968
21 October
An open letter is released by twelve leading clergymen from the Church of the Province of South Africa and other Protestant churches indicating that it is impossible for all political utterances from the pulpit to cease.
South Africa:Signs an agreement with Japan on the double taxation on income derived from the exploitation of ships or aircraft in international traffic.
1968
22 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with Greece concerning the graves of members of the armed forces of the Commonwealth in Greek territory.
1968
23 October
Following his victory at the general elections in which his party, the Transkei National Independent Party (TNIP) won twenty-eight of the forty-five seats, Chief Kaiser Matanzima reorganizes the Transkei cabinet.
1968
27 October
The Minister of Police, S.L. Muller, speaking at a National Party meeting, warns that several hundred South African born black ‘terrorists’ will try to infiltrate the country, and that at least 2,000 have been trained by liberation movements. Guerrilla activity is still taking place in the Caprivi Strip and forty-six Africans in the area have been detained.
1968
14 November
The Ciskei ‘homeland’ is established.
1968
21 November
South Africa:Signs treaty with Canada on the Canadian Pension Plan.
1968
26 November
South Africa:Signs amendments to the multilateral treaty on safety of life at sea, 1960.
1968
December
During the Christmas recess, a meeting takes place at Marianhill, and is attended by about thirty members of Black University Students' Representative Councils. From analysing the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) experience from this group, Steve Biko finds an encouraging receptiveness to his idea of an all-Black organisation. The name South African Students' Organisation (SASO) is chosen and plans are laid for a formal inaugural conference.
1968
2 December
The twenty-third Assembly of the United Nations passes a resolution condemning the apartheid policies of the South African government on virtually identical terms to that adopted at the twenty-second session.
1968
2 December
The General Assembly requested all States and organisations "to suspend cultural, educational, sporting and other exchanges with the racist regime and with organisations or institutions in South Africa which practice apartheid.
1968
12 December
The Tswana Territorial Authority is established.
South Africa:Signs the International Sugar Agreement.
1968
14 December
A move to expel South Africa from UNCTAD (The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) is defeated in the United Nations General Assembly.
1968
17 December
The first rocket to he wholly developed and manufactured in South Africa is successfully launched from the new rocket launching range at St. Lucia Bay on the east coast. The Minister of Defence asserts that the rockets are defensive not offensive weapons.
1968
21 December
A three-month campaign to register coloured voters ends with only approximately half of the total of 700,000 qualified voters registering.
1969
Representatives of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) and the American Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights under Law arrive in South Africa to investigate recent legislation that seems to contravene basic principles of law and to create a trend of increasing state power over the individual without giving access to courts to seek redress. Meetings are held with senior officials of the Ministries of Justice, of the Police and of the Interior.
1969 - 1970
The establishment of the additional five members functioning as Cabinets is announced. Basutho ha Bozwa (Southern Sotho); Lebowa Territorial Authority (North Sotho); Venda Territorial Authority; Machangana Territorial Authority (Shangana, Tsonga); Zulu Territorial Authority.
1969
Barney Pityana and other 21 students are expelled from the University of Fort Hare. The University of the North Students' Representative Council holds a strike to offer solidarity to the expelled students.
1969
The black South African student Organization (SASO) is formed.
1969
Umkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC\'s military wing,is officially opened to women members.
Winnie Mandela is detained under the Terrorism Act and held in Solitary confinement for 17 months.
Dorothy Nyembe and ten others are charged under the Suppression of Communism Act and found guilty of harbouring members of MK. She is sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment.
Frances Baard is released, banned and restricted to Mabopane near Pretoria.
Mamphela Ramphele is involved in student politics at the University of Natal Medical Schoo. She joins SASO under leadership of Steve Biko.
1969
Shanthivathie Naidoo is detained
1969
The Apartheid regime cancels a match between White champions Highlands Park and Orlando Pirates in Mbabane, Swaziland. The racist Football Association of South Africa's (FASA) reputation and international standing is seriously damaged as FIFA had sanctioned the match.
The South African Soccer Federation forms a six-team professional league.
1969
January
International Conference of Solidarity with the Peoples of Southern Africa and the Portuguese Colonies in Khartoum, organised by AAPSO and WPC.
Only liberation movements friendly to Soviet Union were invited.
1969
3 January
The Conservative Party agrees with the Republican and National parties to accept the principle of coalition at this stage, with the ultimate aim of amalgamation.
1969
21 January
South Africa:Signs treaty with Portugal (for Angola) on the first phase development of the water resources of the Cunene River Basin
1969
1 February - 21 June
During the Parliamentary session the government introduced 129 Bills. The Bills passed include measures intended to safeguard internal security arousing widespread objections from the Opposition and the legal profession.
1969
2 February
Eduardo Mondlane assassinated.
1969
3 February
The Leader of the Opposition introduces a no-confidence motion, that the government policy of separate development has failed and he proposes the establishment of separate nation-states in a federal system, in which the white population group would retain its leadership role.
1969
7 February
The Prime Minister announces that white entrepreneurs will be given long-standing contracts in the ‘homelands’ to speed up economic development.
1969
11 February
Four former National Party members join the newly formed Herstigte Nasionale Party.
1969
12 February
The South Africa Act Amendment Bill, repealing the provisions of the South Africa Act of 1909 for the possible incorporation into South Africa of Rhodesia and the former High Commission Territories (Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland), is passed with the approval of the Opposition at its second reading.
1969
18 February
John Vorster formally opens a new submarine cable between Cape Town and Lisbon.
1969
22 February
The fifteenth Annual Conference of the Trade Union Council of South Africa (TUCSA) alters its constitution in such a way as to debar Africans from membership.
1969
23 February
A new weekly air service between Johannesburg and New York, with an intermediate stop at Rio de Janeiro, is inaugurated in spite of the opposition of the UN Special Committee on Apartheid.
1969
28 February
Minister of Justice Pelser says forty-two persons are under house arrest in terms of the Suppression of Communism Act, eight of the orders being renewed for a further five years.
1969
March
Helen Suzman introduces a private members’ motion on the subject of capital punishment asking for a commission of inquiry to examine the efficacy of the death penalty. No other Members of Parliament supported the motion.
1969
4 March
The Prime Minister declares in the Senate that the National Party will exercise its power to put into practice, as far as possible, the separation of the races.
1969
10 March
The Rhodesian Prime Minister, Ian Smith, meets John Vorster for talks of a confidential nature.
1969
18 March
Please ensure that the event is listed in such a way that is answers the questions WHO? WHAT? WHERE and if interpretation is included WHY? (eg. South Africans vote in the first democratic elections in South Africa).
Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, attends the launching in France of the first of three Daphne class submarines being built for the South African Navy.
1969
26 March
Please ensure that the event is listed in such a way that is answers the questions WHO? WHAT? WHERE and if interpretation is included WHY? (eg. South Africans vote in the first democratic elections in South Africa).
Ten African men and one woman receive prison sentences of from five to twenty years in the Pietermaritzburg Supreme Court on
South Africa:Signs air transport agreement with Austria.
1969
April
Mandela's letter to Minister of Justice demanding release of poltical prisoners.
1969
April
John Vorster says members of the South African Police Force will remain on Rhodesia’s borders while this is necessary in South Africa’s own security interests.
A charges of having contravened sections of the Terrorism Act and the Suppression of Communism Act and of having plotted violent revolution and open warfare in South Africa in collusion with foreign Communist-led groups in Ethiopia, Algeria, the Soviet Union, Tanzania and Zambia.petition, bearing over 10,000 signatures, to restore academic freedom to these universities is sent to the government.
1969
1 April
Public Service Amendment Act No 86:
Established the Bureau of State Security (BOSS) (Horrell 1978: 449).
Commenced: 1 April 1969
Repealed by s 37 of the Public Service Act No 111 of 1984.
1969
8 April
Ratifies extradition treaty with Botswana.
1969
9 April
The Abolition of Juries Bill, providing for the ending of trial by jury comes into force.
1969
10 April - 16 April
A nation-wide student campaign is conducted to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Extension of University Education Act which enforced racial segregation on the universities.
1969
16 April
The Fifth Summit Conference of East and Central African States in Lusaka adopted a Manifesto on Southern Africa.
1969
16 April
The Fifth Summit Conference of East and Central African States in Lusaka adopted a Manifesto on Southern Africa.
1969
23 April
The Prime Minister announces to the House of Assembly that the government carried on discussions with other nations to fill the power vacuum in the Indian Ocean after Britain’s proposed withdrawal in 1970.
1969
24 April
Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, submits a White Paper to Parliament providing for a 5 year defence plan, with an estimated expenditure of R1,647,000,000 (about 1,000,000,000 Pounds Sterling).
1969
30 April
Separate acts give five University Colleges for blacks full university status although the Central government retains tight control.
1969
May
The Mogorogoro conference called for an all-round struggle. Both armed struggle and mass political struggle had to be used to defeat the enemy. But the armed struggle and the revival of mass struggle depended on building ANC underground structures within the country.
1969
May
Twenty-four Africans appear in the Grahamstown Supreme Court on charges relating to sabotage. Twelve of the alleged Poqo members are acquitted, and twelve receive prison sentences.
1969
May
Seven-day ANC consultative conference held in Morogoro, Tanzania. The main aim was to bring about a qualitative change in the organisational content of movement in keeping with the new situation - namely a Revolutionary People's War.
Inaugural conference held of the South African Students Organisation (SASO) at Turfloop University.
1969
May
(edit) Winnie is arrested with twenty-one others and detained for five months. She is interrogated and tortured. A group of British anti-apartheid activists plan to rescue Mandela from Robben Island. Bureau of State Security (BoSS) infiltrates the group and the plan is aborted.
1969
5 May
P.W. Botha, the Minister of Defence, announces that an air-to-air projectile has been perfected by South Africa
1969
13 May
The Minister of Justice announces that the former Pan-Africanist Congress leader, Robert M. Sobukwe, has been released from detention. He is permitted to live in Kimberley, subject to restrictions. Being banned under the Suppression of Communism Act, he may not be quoted.
1969
16 May
For purposes of intense security legislation the South African Bureau of State Security is established (later referred to as BOSS).
The Publications and Entertainments Amendment Bill gives the Publications Control Board powers to prohibit subsequent editions of any South African periodical whose contents have been declared undesirable.
1969
30 May
Statistics of police action during the year 1 July 1967 - 30 June 1968 include 47,370 cases involving the safety of the state and good order and that 45,230 persons have been prosecuted for such crimes or offences.
1969
31 May
Rectifies exchange of notes with France to air services treaty dated 31 January 1966.
1969
4 June - 10 June
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, accompanied by General Hiemstra, Lieutenant-General J.P. Verster, Chief of the Air Force and Lieutenant-General W.P. Louw, Chief of the Army, visits France. He denies that the visit involves the purchase of arms.
1969
5 June
A Bill is tabled in Parliament banning henceforth any merger between newspapers published in South Africa, unless authorized by the relevant ministry. The government can veto the acquisition of a newspaper, or the majority interests in a newspaper, by anyone not possessing South African nationality, or by a group controlled by non-South Africans.
1969
12 June
The leader of the Labour Party appeals to the voters to reject apartheid regulations.
1969
15 June - 17 June
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Hilgard Muller Visits Portugal, and says that Portuguese and South African forces stand as a bulwark against the domination of the African continent by foreign powers.
1969
23 June
Twenty-four Africans from the Graaff-Reinet district appear in the Grabamstown Supreme Court on charges under the Sabotage Act. They are alleged to have conspired or incited others to kill whites or police in the Graaff-Reinet district of the Cape Province between January 1966 and January 1967.
1969
27 June
A Bill on Separation of Races is passed, which includes the provision that no person could be classified white if one of his parents was classified coloured. It prohibits the hearing of third-party objections to race classification and empowers the Secretary for the Interior to change a person’s race classification.
1969
30 June
A Bill affecting state security called the General Laws Amendment Bill is passed, despite rejection by the Opposition and severe criticism by the Bar and a number of judges. It contains far-reaching provisions and restrictions affecting the administration of justice and the disclosure of evidence. Security matters are now defined as including any matter relating to the Bureau of State Security (BOSS), and its relationship with any person. The government denies it is creating a dictatorial and despotic institution but this radical measure is seen as having far-reaching implications for the independence of the judiciary.
1969
July
South African Students Organisation (SASO) is launched
1969 - 1970
July - February
A number of groups of Africans are tried for subversive activities. The group includes Winnie Mandela.
1969
1 July
In preparation for the Council’s taking-over the responsibilities, the Department of Coloured Affairs is replaced by the Department of Coloured Relations.
1969
1 July
The constitution of the South African Students' Organisation (SASO) is adopted at the inaugural conference and Steve Biko is elected president.
Other leading party members include: Barney Pityana,Harry Nengwekhulu, Hendrick Musi, Petrus Machaka, Manana Kgware, Aubrey Mokoape, J Goolam and Strini Moodley.
Though the new organisation is committed to a philosophy of Black Consciousness, it does not reject the liberalism of National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) right away.
1969
3 July
Twelve Africans on trial at the Supreme Court in Grahamstown, accused of having conspired to take over a town and kill whites are acquitted on the charge, but are given prison sentences ranging from seven to one year’s Imprisonment for being members of the illegal organization, Poqo. Twelve others are acquitted.
1969
10 July
The lengthy and expensive trial of Laurence Gandar and Benjamin Pogrund, of the Rand Daily Mail, on charges under the Prisons Act ends with both being found guilty but receiving light sentences. The press wins a moral victory, but the trial discourages editors from publishing reports on prison conditions.
1969
1 August
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, M.C. Botha, outlines the government’s homelands policy, in Pretoria. He declares that whites are trustees of the blacks, but this trusteeship is not permanent, and he forsees the establishment of autonomous nations, coexisting peacefully on the basis of a practical interdependence.
1969
6 August
South Africa signs the Agreement on Rescue and Return of Astronauts and Space Objects.
1969
9 August
The French Minister of State for National Defence confirms the continued supply of French arms to South Africa, except for anti-guerrilla equipment.
1969
12 August
The United Nations Security Council’s resolution calls on South Africa to withdraw its administration from Namibia immediately, and, in any case, before 4 October 1969. South Africa is condemned for refusing to comply with previous United Nations resolutions.
1969
23 August
An alleged Soviet spy, Y.N. Loginov, who was arrested in 1967, is handed over to a non-communist country, West Germany.
The Republican Party issues its election manifesto which does not oppose separate development but demands increased services to combat crime.
1969
2 September
P.W. Botha, the Minister of Defence, announces the establishment of a third naval base at Saldana Bay, about eighty miles north of Cape Town.
1969
5 September
John Vorster appoints a Commission of Inquiry under Justice HJ. Potgieter, of The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court to investigate South Africa’s security network, and to hear objections to its security legislation. Terms of reference include threats of conventional war, guerrilla war, terrorism and internal subversion; recommendations are to be submitted concerning the effectiveness of security and amendment to legislation.
1969
10 September
Nine Africans are charged before the Pretoria Supreme Court with taking part in terrorist activities between 1966 and 1968 in the Elandsfontein, Transvaal.
1969
16 September
The Prime Minister announces that a general election will be held in April 1970.
1969
19 September
Four agreements are signed in Lisbon connected with the construction of the Cahora Bassa Dam in Mozambique, the main one being between the governments of South Africa and Portugal.
1969
24 September
At the first election of Coloured Persons’ Representative Council, the anti-Apartheid Labour Party gains a majority of forty elective seats.
Ratifies multilateral treaty on the rescue and return of astronauts and the return of objects launched into outer space.
1969
30 September
The final results of the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council election are announced at which the Labour Party obtained a large majority of seats: Labour Party 26, Federal Party 11, Republican Party 1, National People’s Party 1, Conservative Party 0, Independents 1. Percentage poll 48.75%.
1969
October
All known ‘verkramptes’ are expelled from the National Party, including Dr. A. Hertzog, Jaap Marais, W.T. Marais and Louis Stofberg.
Over 2,000 ‘verkrampte’ delegates gather in Pretoria to form a new party under the leadership of Dr. Hertzog. Launched as Die Herstigte Nasionale Party (HNP) its programme emphasizes exclusive Afrikaner nationalism and true Christian principles’.
1969
2 October
South Africa formally rejects a United Nations Security Council resolution calling on it to give independence to Namibia and to withdraw its administration from that territory before October.
1969
7 October
The government announces the twenty nominated members of the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council for the four provinces. These include thirteen defeated candidates; all are supporters of separate development; thus the government ensures that the defeated Federal Party will command a majority in the new Council. All other contesting parties condemn the government’s action.
1969
9 October
P.W. Botha announces the location of the first missile base for experimental tests.
1969
16 October
The United Party declares that it will oppose the National Party’s policy and will moot a certain measure of self-government for the urban black.
1969
19 October
The Progressive Party decides to fight the election in opposition to the government’s policy of separate development.
1969
21 October
South Africa:Signs amendments to a multilateral treaty for the safety of life at sea, 1960.
1969
26 October
The United Nations Committee on Non-Self-Governing Territories adopts a resolution drawing the attention of the Security Council to the deteriorating situation in Namibia following Pretoria’s refusal to relinquish its hold over the mandated territory. The resolution is passed by ninety-six votes to two, with six abstentions (Britain, France, Australia, Botswana, Malawi and Ivory Coast).
1969
31 October
The twenty-fourth General Assembly meeting of the United Nations condemns South Africa for its persistent refusal to withdraw from Namibia.
1969
November
The Attorney-General of the Transvaal prosecutes Dr. Hertzog and Jaap Marais under the Commissions Act of 1947 for allegations made concerning the finance allocated to BOSS.
1969
20 November
The first session of the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council is officially in Bellville and immediately takes up the question of equal pay for coloureds for equal work.
1969
20 November
The General Assembly - in resolution 2505 (XXIV) - welcomed the Lusaka Manifesto on Southern Africa and recommended it to the attention of all States and peoples.
1969
20 November
The General Assembly - in resolution 2505 (XXIV) - welcomed the Lusaka Manifesto on Southern Africa and recommended it to the attention of all States and peoples.
1969
21 November
South Africa votes against the lengthy resolutions regarding Southern Rhodesia’s independence, passed by the twenty-fourth General Assembly of the United Nations.
The twenty-fourth General Assembly of the United Nations condemns South Africa for its collaboration with Portugal and Southern Rhodesia and for the intervention of its forces against the peoples of Angola and Mozambique; and for its apartheid policies.
1969
29 November
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the intervention on the high seas in cases of oil pollution casualties.
1969
1 December
The trial begins at the Supreme Court in Pretoria of twenty-two Africans, including Winnie Mandela, accused of pro-Communist and subversive activities, of instigating guerrilla warfare and of organizing Africans in Communist countries. Winnie Mandela refuses to enter a plea. A British subject, Philip Gording, held incommunicado in prison since May 1969 appears as a state witness, is given immunity from prosecution and is released on 8 December 1969.
1969
11 December
South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland sign a new customs agreement in Pretoria, to come into operation on 1 March 1970.
1969
30 December
The International Monetary Fund announces that it will agree to purchase gold from South Africa, subject to certain conditions. The price of $35 per oz. is agreed upon.
EVENT
1970
Prices begin to rise sharply, making it even more difficult for workers to survive on low wages. Spontaneous strikes resulted: workers walk out of the workplaces demanding wage increases.
1970
The Bantu Homelands Citizenship Act strips blacks of their South African Citizenship.
1970
Fietas, Johannesburg: Lenasia is incorporated into the Johannesburg Municipal Area.
1970
Bantu Homelands Citizenship Act (National States Citizenship Act) No 26:
Required all black persons to become citizens of a self-governing territorial authority. As Minister Connie Mulder stated: ‘No black person will eventually qualify in terms of section 10 because they will all be aliens, and as such, will only be able to occupy the houses bequeathed to them by their fathers, in the urban areas, by special permission of the Minister,’ i.e. black people are forced by residence in designated ‘homelands’ areas to be citizens of that homeland and denied South African nationality, the right to work in South Africa etc.
Assent gained: 26 March 1970; commencement date not found
Repealed by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No 200 of 1993.
1970
Fatima Meer banned for planning mass rally with Steve Biko.
Winnie Mandela placed under house arrest.
1970
Robert McBride's sister Gwynneth is born.
1970
Coloured and Indian players are purged from African clubs.
South Africa is expelled from the Olympic Movement.
1970
Thabo Mbeki is sent to Soviet Union for political training. Walter Sisulu and Abertina Sisulu's son Max joins Thabo, and together they make their way to a remote military camp near a town called Sekhodia.
1970
1 January
The Weights and Measures Bill providing for the metrification of weights and measures, thereby introducing the metric system, comes into effect.
1970
9 January
The first week after the announcement of the agreement with the International Monetary Fund the price of gold falls below $35 per oz.
1970
30 January
The Prime Minister announces that the government is watching the situation in Lesotho following the elections and that necessary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of South Africans there.
1970
6 February
The Prime Minister announces that all Coloured people will be removed from the common voters’ roll.
1970
11 February
A delegation from Mauritius arrives in Cape Town to discuss ways of strengthening links between Mauritius and South Africa.
1970
16 February
Twenty-two Africans are acquitted of unlawful activities. Three are subsequently released, but the nineteen others are charged again under the Terrorism Act, and immediately taken into custody. They include Winnie Mandela.
1970
18 February
Minister of Defence Botha, appeals in the House of Assembly to the British government to uphold its honour in respect of the Simonstown Agreement, otherwise South Africa will have to explore other avenues to strengthen its maritime forces.
1970
23 February
The Bantu Laws Amendment Bill is passed.
1970
26 February
The Bantu Homelands Citizenship Bill is passed, whereby every African is issued with a certificate of citizenship of his respective ‘homeland’.
1970
6 March
The National Party manifesto reaffirms its belief in separate development programmes for the white, black, Coloured and Indian population.
1970
10 March
South Africa’s consular representation will not be withdrawn from Rhodesia and South Africa’s relations with the Republic of Rhodesia will remain unchanged.
1970
13 March
A total of 407 candidates are nominated for the 166 seats in the House of Assembly. Eight parties and five independents will contest 155 of the constituencies.
1970
18 March
The Deputy Leader of the Herstigte Nasionale Party (HNP), Jaap Marais, is committed for trial in the Pretoria Supreme Court on three charges under the Official Secrets Act.
1970
23 March
South Africa is banned from competing in the Davis Cup, as a result of South Africa’s apartheid stand in sport.
1970
26 March
On this date all Africans become citizens of their ethnic ‘homelands’. However, they will not become foreigners in the Republic of South Africa.
South Africa:Signs treaty with Portugal (for Mozambique), amending Article XXXII of the Mozambique Convention.
1970
April
The Leader of the United Party reiterates his party’s proposal for a Federal Constitution.
The Herstigte Nasionaie Party publishes its manifesto describing its aim of a society dominated by Christian national concepts and Afrikaans as the only official language.
1970
2 April
South Africa:Signs agreement with Australia relating to air services.
1970
13 April
B.J. Vorster states that he is prepared to meet demands that mixed sports should be allowed.
1970
14 April
The United Nations Special Committee on Apartheid urges a boycott of all South African racist sporting organizations and supports an African proposal to exclude the Republic from both the Munich Olympics and the Olympic Movement itself.
1970
22 April
The general election results in the return to power of the National Party for the sixth time since 1948, but with a reduced majority. There is an overall swing of two and a half percent to the United Party, and of five and a half percent away from the National Party with three percent going to the Herstigte Nasionale Party. The NP wins 117 seats with 820,968 votes cast. The UP wins forty-seven seats with 561,647 votes cast. The Progressive Party wins one seat with 51,760 votes cast.
1970
24 April
It is confirmed in London that thirteen African countries have threatened to withdraw from the Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, if the South African cricket tour of Britain goes on.
1970
27 April
The Prime Minister announces that his newly re-elected government is to continue its outward looking foreign policy as well as its policy of separate development.
1970
11 May
The Prime Minister announces a Cabinet reshuffle.
1970
13 May
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on certain dairy products.
1970
15 May
The International Olympic Committee expels South Africa from the International Olympic Movement as a result of South Africans apartheid stand in sport.
1970
18 May
Following the results obtained in the general election held in April, a new cabinet is sworn in.
1970
19 May - 21 May
John Vorster visits Malawi and stresses the desire for continued contact and co-operation between South Africa and Malawi, despite existing differences in outlook.
1970
21 May - 22 May
Private talks are held between John Vorster and Rhodesian Prime Minister lan Smith.
1970
22 May
The English Cricket Council bows to British government pressure and calls off the all-white South African cricket tour.
1970
29 May
Minister of Justice, P.C. Pelser, announces that the Attorney-General of the Transvaal is to prosecute thirty of the 357 people arrested in Johannesburg after an illegal march in protest against the continued detention of the twenty-two Africans held under the Terrorism Act.
1970
3 June - 7 June
The Prime Minister, accompanied by Dr. Muller, visits Portugal, and holds several meetings with the Portuguese Prime Minister and senior ministers. The friendly talks cover a wide field and include the Cahora Bassa scheme.
1970
9 June - 10 June
The Prime Minister visits Spain and holds discussions with senior officials. A meeting is held with General Franco.
1970
10 June
John Vorster hold talks in Paris with the French Prime minister covering French investments in South Africa.
1970
12 June
The seventh ‘homeland’ is inaugurated with the installation of Chief Gatsha Buthelezi as Chief Executive Officer of the Zululand Territorial Authority (ZTA).
1970
13 June
P.W. Botha announces that South Africa is establishing a new submarine base at Simonstown at a cost of $7.7m.
1970
14 June - 17 June
Prime Minister Vorster and Dr. Muller arrive in Geneva. A meeting is held with twelve South African ambassadors to European countries, and with the head of the South African mission to the United Nations in Geneva, concerned with means of improving South Africa’s image in Europe.
1970
24 June
Exchange of notes with Portugal on the issue of copyright in maps.
1970
July
The first General Students' Council of South African Students' Organisation (SASO) is convened, where the organisation takes a bolder stance. The organisation encourages contact between SASO and other multi-racial organisations such as the United Christian Movement (UCM) and the Institute of Race Relations, but recognition of National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) as a "true" national union of students is withdrawn. SASO becomes identified with a well-articulated ideology of Black Consciousness.
1970
1 July
The question of the resumption of arms supplies by Britain to South Africa is discussed by the Foreign Minister, Dr. H. Muller and the new British Foreign Secretary, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, in London, in the context of the Simonstown Agreement.
1970
6 July
The British Conservative government’s intention to resume arms supplies is announced in the House of Commons. Other Commonwealth governments are formally informed of this intention on 10-11 July 1970. Hostile reactions follow.
1970
11 July
The United States Secretary of State reiterates America’s adherence to the policy of not supplying arms and military equipment to South Africa.
1970
20 July
The Prime Minister announces in the House of Assembly that South African scientists have succeeded in developing a new process for uranium enrichment, and are building a pilot plant for this process.
The British Foreign Secretary, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, makes a statement in the House of Commons on the question of arms for South Africa. Emphasizing the vital importance of the sea routes around South Africa.
1970
23 July
The United Nations Security Council condemns all violations of its embargo against South Africa. After five meetings on this question Resolution 281 (1970) is subsequently passed calling on all states to strengthen the arms embargo. It is adopted by twelve votes to none against, France, Great Britain and the United States abstaining.
The Minister of Defence tells Parliament that South Africa in fact spends less than 3 percent of her national income on defence.
1970
23 July
Security Council adopted resolution 282 (1970) calling on States to take a series of measures to strengthen the arms embargo against South Africa. The vote was 12 in favour and 3 abstentions (France, UK, USA).
1970
27 July
An Uranium Enrichment Bill is announced, establishing the Uranium Enrichment Corporation of South Africa.
1970
29 July
The International Court of Justice in the Hague unanimously condemns the continuing presence of South Africa in Namibia and defines the legal consequences.
1970
August
In an article published in the South African Students' Organisation (SASO) newsletter Steve Biko writes: "The integration they (liberals) talk about...is artificial...one-way of course, with the Whites doing all the talking and the Blacks the listening"
1970
3 August
South Africa:Signs amendments with Portugal (for Mozainbique) an the Mozambique Convention.
1970
15 August
Several pamphlet bombs, scattering ANC pamphlets, explode in a number of cities.
1970
19 August
The Chinese community is granted official white’ status for the first time. but only for sport and leisure. Subsequently the leader of the HNP, Dr. Hertzog, accuses the government of betraying South Africa’s traditional principles of racial segregation.
1970
24 August
A second trial of the nineteen Africans, acquitted in February begins after they have been in detention for seventeen months. They are all acquitted and released on 14 September 1970 only to be served subsequently with orders by the Minister of Justice placing them under restriction.
1970
September
South Africa:Signs visa agreement with Spain.
1970
September
Speaking in the House of Assembly, Prime Minister Vorster said that South Africa was prepared to enter into a non-aggression pact with neighbouring States.
1970
28 September
The Minister of Justice announces in the House of Assembly that as of 1 January 1970 there were 809 persons serving prison sentences imposed under security laws.
1970
28 September
The provincial elections continue to demonstrate the slight swing away from the National Party, with the United Party making a net gain of six seats. The result: National Party 118 seats, the United Party fifty-nine seats, others nil.
1970
30 September
B.S. Ramotse is sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment by Justice G. Viljoen in the Pretoria Supreme Court. He is found guilty of taking part in terrorist activities and plotting the violent overthrow of the state.
1970
5 October
South Africa:Signs multilateral Convention on the Conflict of Laws Relating to the Form of Testamentary Dispositions.
1970
24 October
In a Declaration on the 25th anniversary of the United Nations, the General Assembly described apartheid as "a crime against the conscience and dignity of mankind". (Resolution 2627 (XXV))
1970
4 November
President Houphouet-Boigny of the Ivory Coast announces he is planning an African Summit Conference to urge a dialogue with South Africa. This initiative meets with very various reactions throughout the continent, but is welcomed in South Africa.
1970
9 November
South Africa:Signs agreement with Netherlands modifying existing agreement on air services
1970
13 November - 1 December
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Michael Ramsey, visits South Africa on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Anglican Church in South Africa. He repeatedly expresses his views on political and social problems arising from the government’s apartheid policy.
1970
13 November
After a challenge of the credentials of the South African delegation by many Member States, the General Assembly approved the report of the Credentials Committee "except with regard to the credentials of the representatives of the Government of South Africa". [(Resolution 2636 (XXV))]
1970
15 November
At the twenty-fourth General Assembly of the United Nations, South Africa joined all the leading maritime powers in opposing a section of the Resolutions on Peaceful Uses of the Sea-Bed.
1970
19 November
John Vorster appoints Theo Gerdener as Minister of the Interior in succession to Marais Viljoen. The latter retains the Labour portfolio and takes over Posts and Telegraphs in addition. The South African Broadcasting Corporation will come under the direct control of the Ministry of National Education.
1970
20 November
The South African Foreign Minister signs an economic agreement with the Malagasy Republic, which provides for a financial loan from South Africa to help the Malagasy tourist industry.
1970
21 November
Six prominent members of the HNP resign, having lost all confidence in the leadership of the party. Resignations include that of Dr. Willie Lubbe, editor of the party’s newspaper ‘Die Afrikaner’.
1970
5 December
The government’s policy for the coloured people is restated by a Cabinet Minister. Any policy, or lack thereof, which can lead to integration on whatever basis between whites and coloureds is rejected; the idea of a specific homeland for the coloured people is impracticable; extended and consistent liaison between the coloureds and the white authorities is promised. The government remains firmly committed to the principle of parallel development.
1970
11 December
South Africa signs a customs agreement with Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland.
1970
16 December
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the suppression of unlawful seizure of aircraft.
1970
24 December
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development leaves Malawi after a four-day visit during which cooperation between nations of Southern Africa is endorsed.
1971
The natal Indian Congress is revived.
1971
The Voice of Women magazine is launched.
1971
Despite the formative influence of a highly politicised father, one of Robert McBride's first personal experiences of racism is at Zoo Lake, Johannesburg. He joins some White children playing with a fish in a bucket, recently caught by a White youth of about 18 who, kicks Robert (of mixed race) in the crotch. This becomes an incident that his younger sister uses to taunt him.
1971
South African Students' Organisation (SASO) helps launch the Black Community Programme.
Strini Moodley and Saths Cooper, members of the Natal Indian Congress (NIC) urge other Indian activists to embrace the Black Consciousness ideology. Although there is sympathy among NIC members, they view South African Students Organisation's ideas of Black consciousness as potentially leading to Black racism.
1971
The National Professional Soccer League (NPSL) launches the Keg League (later renamed Castle League), sponsored by South African Breweries.
Kaizer Motaung's All-Star XI is renamed Kaizer Chiefs.
1971
Thabo Mbeki is transferred to Lusaka, Zambia.
1971
14 January - 21 January
A conference of Heads of Government from the Commonwealth is held in Singapore at which Britain’s proposed sale of arms to South Africa is extensively debated. A study group is set up to consider the question in the context of the security of maritime trade routes in the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
1971
20 January
The Anglican Dean of Johannesburg, the Very Rev. Gonville Aubie ffrench-Beytagh, is detained by the police, accused of subversive activities.
1971
1 February
South Africa:Signs an amendment with Malawi on the provisions of the trade agreement of 13 March 1967.
1971
2 February
South Africa:Signs the Convention of Wetlands and Water Fowl.
The Minister of Justice says, in Parliament, that for as long as the present government is in power the Immorality Act will not be repealed.
1971
8 February
The text of a letter from South Africa to the International Court of Justice at The Hague, officially requesting it to cooperate in supervising a plebiscite in Namibia, is released. The Court is considering a request by the United Nations Security Council for an opinion on the legal consequences of South Africa’s continued presence in the territory in defiance of United Nations resolutions.
Minister of Labour Marais Viljoen announces total exemption for Coloureds from job reservation in the building industry on the Reef and in Pretoria.
1971
11 February
South Africa:Signs treaty with Israel on the reciprocal recognition of air worthiness certificates between South Africa and Israel.
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty pertaining to nuclear weapons on the seabed.
1971
16 February - 22 February
A number of religious ministers and lay workers from Europe and America are told to leave the country.
1971
19 February
It is reported that the Security Police have detained about twenty Africans, Coloureds and Asians. The detainees are said to be members of the Unity Movement of South Africa, founded in 1943 by Coloured schoolteachers.
The South African arms question is discussed in a closed session of the Singapore Commonwealth Conference.
1971
20 February
The British Prime Minister reiterates his government’s attitude to the sale of arms in South Africa, at the Commonwealth Conference in Singapore. Accordingly the South African government has assured Britain that it had no aggressive intentions and that maritime arms would be used only to secure the sea routes.
1971
22 February
The South African Defence Ministry announces that the British government, following its obligations as per the Simonstown Agreement, is willing to give an export licence for Wasp helicopters as requested by South Africa.
1971
25 February
The Chief of the Security Police announces that raids undertaken on this date at offices of Christian and student organizations in the country’s main cities have revealed quantities of documents concerning ffrench-Beytagh’s activities. The Dean is consequently remanded until 28 May 1971 and again until 30 June 1971. The original charges are withdrawn: a new indictment is drawn up under the Terrorism Act.
The OAU publishes a statement condemning Britain’s proposed sale of helicopters to South Africa.
1971
March
The Bantu Homelands Constitution Bill is enacted in the last week of March. 3 Mar. 1971 A Constitution Amendment Bill, empowering the government to proclaim any African language an official language in any self-governing territory, when considered fit passes its second reading at a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. Seven different African languages will thus be given official recognition.
1971
11 March
A resolution is passed at a student body meeting for the establishment of a student Wages Commission. David Hemson, Halton Cheadle, David Davis, Karel Tip and Charles Nupen together with political scientist Rick Turner lead the collective thinking on the establishment of the Commission.
1971
15 March
South Africa:Signs treaty with Netherlands for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1971
19 March
Prime Minister Vorster says that his government is prepared to engage in dialogue, without preconditions, with other African countries prepared to talk. His offer meets with mixed reactions throughout the continent.
1971
22 March
A statement by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Ghanal. National Assembly indicates a readiness to visit South Africa.
1971
26 March
The Prime Minister of Swaziland visits Cape Town for talks with John Vorster and confirms that a policy of friendship and cooperation towards the Republic is being maintained.
1971
29 March
South Africa:Signs Wheat Trade Convention.
1971
30 March
Prime Minister Vorster holds his first-ever international press conference and asserts that discussion of separate development with Africa’s black leaders will be welcomed. A policy of external dialogue is to be pursued.
Referring to allegations that a vendetta is being conducted against churches and religious workers in South Africa. Prime Minister Vorster says that of 1,440 religious workers only six have been deported in the last ten years, seventeen were refused extensions of permits and two were refused visas.
End-March:The Bantu Homelands Constitution Bill is enacted. It empowers the government to grant self-government, on an equal footing with that of the Transkei, to any area with a Territorial Authority, upon the latter’s request, at any time, by simple proclamation, after consultation with the Territorial Authority concerned, but without parliamentary enactment.
1971
31 March
Bantu Homelands Constitution Act (National States Constitutional Act) No 21:
Provided for the granting of increased powers to homeland governments, thus facilitating their eventual ‘independence’.
Commenced: 31 March 1971
Repealed by Sch 7 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No 200 of 1993.
1971
1 April
Accepts the accession of Ireland to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
1971
13 April
The Chief Minister of Transkei demands full control of all departments of state.
1971
16 April
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, MC. Botha, replies to Paramount Chief Kaiser Matanzima’s demands for increased control and for the transference to the Transkei of certain lands technically within its boundaries, from the Republic. Certain police stations will be transferred to Transkeian jurisdiction.
1971
21 April
The Prime Minister refers to the Chief Minister of Transkei’s demands of 13 April and points out that Defence could not be transferred as it would mean changing the Constitution of the Transkei Act of 1963.
Prime Minister Vorster makes a lengthy statement on South Africa’s relations with Zambia.
1971
22 April
The Ciskei Territorial Authority elects a twenty-member select committee to draft a Constitution for an independent Ciskei.
Speaking in the House of Assembly the Prime Minister lays down guidelines for international sports meetings in South Africa. He makes it clear, however, that there has been no change in sports policy on the club, provincial and national levels.
1971
23 April - 26 April
Prime Minister Vorster denies that he has broken any confidence in disclosing exchanges with Zambia and he added that it was fallacious that he indicated that he was willing to discuss Rhodesia’s future with President Kaunda.
1971
28 April
The President of the Ivory Coast reiterates his initiative for opening a dialogue with South Africa. While Swaziland approves the dialogue, Tanzania and Mauritius refuse to participate and many member states of the OAU strongly oppose it.
1971
1 May
The Tswana Legislative Assembly comes into being.
1971
3 May
Chief Kaiser Matanzima denies in the Transkei Legislative Assembly that he is agitating for independence at this state, but he will continue to make certain legitimate land claims.
Signs treaty with Malawi on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1971
5 May
A wide-ranging bill providing severe penalties for dealing in or using dangerous drugs is published.
1971
6 May
Minister of Defence P.W. Botha announces in the House of Assembly that South Africa has reached such a degree of self-sufficiency that it does not need any arms from the outside world for internal security.
1971
12 May
Extension of University Education Amendment Act No 29:
In order to prevent students from changing courses after admission, the Minister would give consent only in respect of a specific university and a specified qualification. He could withdraw his consent if the student concerned changed her/his course of study (SRR 1971:288).
Commenced: 12 May 1971
Repealed by s 21 of the Tertiary Education Act No 66 of 1988.
1971
14 May
The International Court of Justice at The Hague rejects the government’s application that a plebiscite be organized in Namibia and rejects the offer of additional documentation about the situation there.
1971
16 May
Prime Minister Vorster declares that if the positive signs of cooperation with the rest of Africa are interpreted correctly, South Africa could become the leading state of Southern Africa.
1971
21 May
South Africa:Joins the International Telecommunications Satellite Organisation (lntelsat).
1971
26 May
South Africa:Signs multilateral articles of agreement on the Southern African Regional Tourism Council.
1971
1 June
The Venda and Ciskei territorial authorities are replaced by legislative assemblies.
1971
8 June
The first meeting of the student Wages Commission is held at the Bolton hall at the University of Natal, Durban (UND). Beforehand, thousands of pamphlets announcing the meeting and explaining the Poverty Datum Line (PDL) were printed and distributed by the students to workers in industrial areas, outside factory gates and at taxi ranks. 400 workers attend, and all sign an objection to the Wage Board's latest ruling on the minimum wage, and demand a minimum wage of R20 per week. The petition is ignored by the government Wages Board which sets down a minimum of R 8,50.
1971
9 June
The Minister of Coloured Affairs pledges himself to strive for equal pay for equal work for Coloureds.
1971
9 June
An unintended consequence of the first meeting of the Wages Commission is seen the following day, when a group of workers at the McWillaw Iron and Steel Foundry in Isipingo stop work. Waving the Wages Commission pamphlets, the workers quote R 16,50 as a minimum weekly income. The police were called in and an agreement with management is reached, with no pay increase.
1971
11 June
Minister of the Interior Theo Gerdener, indicates that the Public Service Commission will make a comprehensive study to create a more satisfactory ratio between white and non-white salaries in government service.
1971
14 June
The World Council of Churches cancels a special consultation in South Africa because of unacceptable conditions imposed on it by Prime Minister Vorster.
1971
15 June
South Africa:Signs amendment of Article 50(A) of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.
1971
20 June
At the meetings of Council of Ministers of the OAU, dialogue with South Africa is firmly rejected.
1971
21 June
The International Court of Justice at The Hague declares that South Africa is under obligation to withdraw its administration from Namibia immediately and thus put an end to its occupation of the territory. John Vorster reacts by indicating that as the judgment is only advisory, it can not be considered binding, and South Africa will act as it sees fit.
1971
22 June
A Pretoria court rules that the former leader of the banned PAC, Robert Sobukwe, will not be allowed to use his exit permit (granted by the Minister of the Interior) to leave South Africa permanently because the Minister of Justice refuses to lift his banning order confining him to the magisterial district of Kimberley.
1971
25 June
At the first Wages Board meeting where students make a presentation, students lead evidence on the cement products industry. In the weeks before the meeting, students produce and distribute pamphlets outside factories, which explain the procedures of the Wage Board and the kind of evidence that will make a presentation effective. Workers are encouraged to draw up an inventory of their expenses to show that their current minimum wage is too low. More importantly workers are encouraged to attend the Board's meeting.
1971
27 June
The Chairman of Armscor announces that under an agreement with a French aviation company, Mirage III and F jet fighters will be built in South Africa with the help of French personnel.
1971
28 June
Father Cosmos Desmond, British born Roman Catholic priest, is placed under house arrest in Johannesburg by an order signed by the Minister of Justice.
1971
30 June
Membership of the Bank for International Settlement is extended to the South African Reserve Bank.
1971
July
The South African Communist Party paper, Inkululeko-Freedom is launched: a sign of underground activities inside the country.
1971
July
Adoption of the South African Students' Organisation (SASO) policy manifesto, stating the centrality of the Black Consciousness doctrine.
1971
July
A proposal is made at a National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) conference that wages and economic commissions, based on the UND model, be set up at Witwatersrand University (Wits), the University of Cape Town (UCT), Rhodes University (Rhodes) and the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg (UNP). The proposal calls for a national effort to investigate the operation of the Wage Board, for students to present research to Board meetings and assist workers in presenting their demands. Whilst the motion is passed, the challenge to coordinate activities remains.
1971
5 July
The Minister of Information outlines his government’s plan for the nine homelands’ of South Africa in London. They are to become sovereign states in their own right, independent, entitled to maintain their own languages cultures and identities in their own way, according to their own wishes in their own geographical territories.
1971
17 July
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the partial revision of the 1959 radio regulations.
1971
25 July
Joe Kachingwe is appointed Malawi’s first Ambassador to South Africa and assumes office in Pretoria on 29 July 1971.
1971
27 July
Prime Minister Vorster completes a tour of African homelands’ in the Northern Transvaal during which he holds talks with leaders of the North Sotho, Tswana and Venda homelands. The importance of working together is emphasized. Regular consultation is promised.
1971
29 July
The International Court of Justice in The Hague unanimously condemns the continuing presence of South Africa in South West Africa and defines the legal consequences.
1971
2 August
The trial of the Very Rev. Gonville Aubie ffrench-Beytagh begins in the Pretoria Supreme Court. Sidney Kentridge appears as Council for the Defence. The Dean himself explains his attitudes and beliefs in evidence given by him on 14-20 September 1971.
1971
4 August
The government gives limited powers of internal self-government to homeland’, Damaraland, in Namibia.
1971
5 August
The Minister of Defence says that South Africa has become so self-sufficient in the manufacture of arms that she is considering exporting weapons. European countries have accepted that military equipment of a high quality is being produced.
1971
7 August
A Malagasy government delegation arrives for a five-day visit aimed at consolidating relations between the two countries. It is agreed to establish a permanent joint commission to explore further fields of co-operation.
1971
10 August
Eleven bombs explode, scattering ANC propaganda leaflets in the four major cities. The blasts occur twelve months after similar actions in the same cities.
1971
16 August - 20 August
President Hastings Banda, President of Malawi, pays a state visit to South Africa, meeting the State President and the Prime Minister. On his return, he declares that 99% of the Africans whom he met supported his policy of contact with Pretoria.
1971
25 August
The leader of the Zulu Territorial Authority, Chief Buthelezi, calls for a National Convention of all races in South Africa to decide the country’s future political direction. John Vorster rejects this completely, but it is supported as a constructive proposal by both the opposition United Party and the Progressive Party.
1971
30 August
The government announces programmes for expanded development and augmented political powers for the Ovambo and Kavango homelands in Namibia.
1971
September
2000 stevedores threaten to strike if their wages are not raised. David Hemson, a student conducting research on the stevedores, begins to play a more active role as an advocate for the stevedores. Their demand is for a R14 wage increase, still below the PDL. The Wages Commission is instrumental in getting the attention of the White press, especially in terms of wages being below the poverty datum line.
1971
11 September
The Australian Cricket Board decides to withdraw its invitation to the South African Cricket Team to tour Australia. Minister of Sport F.W. Waring blames acts of anarchy and threats of a misguided minority for this decision.
1971
15 September - 17 December
At the twenty-fifth session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, six resolutions denounce the South African government’s apartheid policy.
1971
18 September
During a meeting with representatives of the nine member churches of the World Council of Churches in South Africa, Prime Minister Vorster reaffirms that he will not consider allowing a WCC delegation to come to South Africa under any conditions. Nor will he allow any funds to be sent from South Africa to the World Council.
1971
23 September
Signs multilateral treaty for the suppression of unlawful acts against the safety of civil aviation.
1971
26 September
Minister of Coloured Affairs, J.J. Loots announces that larger Coloured group areas will gradually be transformed into fully fledged municipalities, under the Coloured Persons Representative Council.
1971
28 September
President Idi Amin of Uganda offers to dispatch a ten-man investigatory mission to South Africa. South Africa replies by inviting Amin himself, or one or more members of his government instead - an alternative which proves unacceptable.
Signs Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Professional and
1971
30 September
It is officially announced that the British and South African naval units will engage in a month of joint manoeuvres in South African waters from 4 October to 3 November 1971.
South Africa:Signs amendment to the trade agreement of 20 August 1932 with Great Britain.
1971
October
The new leader of the Progressive Party, Cohn Eglin, together with Helen Suzman, undertake a visit to seven black African states.
1971
4 October
Chief Leabua Jonathan, Prime Minister of Lesotho, warns that violent confrontation between blacks and whites will be an inevitable consequence of apartheid. Mr Vorster responds with restraint, in the interest of friendship.
1971
4 October - 28 October
Three leaders of ‘homelands’ governments - Paramount Chief Kaiser Matanzima (Transkei), Chief Gatsha Buthelezi (Zulu Territorial Authority) and Chief Lucas Mangope (Councillor of the Tswanas) - visit Great Britain at the invitation of the British government to study British institutions and the independence processes undergone by the former High Commission Territories.
1971
5 October
The Prime Minister announces at the National Party Congress the incidences on the border of Zambia and the Caprivi Strip. He reminds the Congress of his previous warnings that South Africa will not tolerate the incursion of communist trained terrorists into South African territory and they will be pursued to the land from where they came.
1971
6 October
The Minister of State of the Ivory Coast, Koffia Ndia, visits South Africa, reraffirming the country’s commitment to dialogue.
1971
7 October
SWAPO claims it was not responsible for placing landmines in the Caprivi Strip and that the guerrillas were not operating from Zambia, but from inside Namibia.
1971
8 October
The United Nations Security Council meets in emergency session to hear a complaint by Zambia against numerous violations by South African forces against the sovereignty, airspace and territorial integrity of Zambia. South Africa categorically rejects the Zambian allegations.
1971
11 October
South Africa:Signs visa agreement with Iran.
1971
12 October
The Security Council unanimously adopts an amended resolution, sponsored by four African states, which declares that army violation of the border of a member-state is contrary to the UN Charter. It calls on South Africa to respect Zambia’s sovereignty.
South Africa Signs amendments to the multilateral treaty on the safety of life at sea.
1971
13 October
South Africa:Signs treaty with Australia on postal parcels.
1971
15 October
Accepts the accession of Romania to the General Agreement on Tarnfs and Trade.
1971
18 October
The seventh Summit Conference of the Fast and Central African states, held in Mogadishu, adopts a Declaration urging armed struggle to liberate Southern Africa, to which they grant total support. This rejection of South Africa’s dialogue policy is welcomed by the leaders of both the ANC, Alfred Nzo and the PAC.
1971
23 October
An article appearing in the Daily News argues: 'ś for those who lightly dismiss the students as 'immature cranks', the Commission's activities provide food for thought. They should not have to fight this battle alone'ť.
1971
24 October
The Security Police raid more than 100 homes throughout the country in a search for illegal political literature.
1971
28 October - 28 October
It is officially confirmed that one of nineteen Indians detained, Ahmed Timol, a Moslem teacher, has jumped to his death from the tenth floor of the main police building in Johannesburg - the seventeenth death in detention under security laws. Following calls from the opposition and others for a judicial inquiry into deaths of police detainees, the Prime Minister states on the following day, 29 October 1971, that he finds no need for this.
Winnie Mandela is given a six-month suspended sentence for defying a banning order. She is to appear in court on 16 November 1971 on a second similar charge.
1971
29 October
The Prime Minister emphasizes that following the church’s subversive activities, that a comprehensive and serious investigation in connection with terrorism and sabotage can be expected.
1971
November
End- Novemember:Chiefs Buthelezi and Mangope visit West Germany in early November and hold discussions with ministers and officials.
1971
November
2000 Ovambo contract labourers in Windhoek strike for higher wages. There is increased interest by the public and government on the question of Black wages.
1971
1 November
After a protracted trial the Anglican Dean of Johannesburg, the Very Rev. Gonville Aubie ffrench-Beytagh is found guilty on ten points of subversive activities against the state and is sentenced to five years’ imprisonment with a grant of leave to appeal. The sentence is followed by wide-spread criticism and protests, both within and without the country.
1971
3 November
Please ensure that the event is listed in such a way that is answers the questions WHO? WHAT? WHThe Cape Provincial Council approves the Local Authorities Voters’ Amendment Ordinance, removing the names of Coloured persons from the common voters rolls of municipal and divisional councils in the Cape Province, depriving them of tights enjoyed for over 100 years.ERE and if interpretation is included WHY? (eg. South Africans vote in the first democratic elections in South Africa).
1971
12 November
The biennial Congress of the United Party requests the government to hold a referendum before sovereign independence is granted to ‘homelands’. The party remains opposed to the separate development policy.
Signs amendments to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
Accepts the accession of the Congo to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
1971
13 November - 14 November
The World Council of Churches meeting in Geneva states that the sentence against Rev. ffrench-Beytagh will stir up the world’s indignation against South Africa.
1971
16 November
Signs amendments to the Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961.
1971
24 November
Signs agreement with Portugal (for Mozambique) pertaining to rivers of mutual interest.
1971
26 November
Black Affairs Administration Act No 45:
Provided for black self-government in townships.
Commenced: 26 November 1971
Repealed by s 69 of the Black Communities Development Act No 4 of 1984.
1971
29 November
The United Nations General Assembly asks all world governments to apply a full-scale embargo on arms supplies to South Africa, condemns the establishment of Bantustans and asks national and international sports organizations to refuse any recognition to any sporting activity involving racial, religious or political discrimination.
1971
29 November
The General Assembly adopted resolution 2775 D (XXVI) calling for a boycott of sports teams selected in violation of the Olympic principle of non-discrimination. It also condemned the establishment of bantustans and forced removals of African people.
1971
December
The Durban Wages Commission begins printing Isisebenzi (The Workers), a newspaper for workers. They also publish the Bulletin of the Wages Commission which reports on strikes, the work of the Commission, and labour disputes.
At this time however, the morale of some students begins to wane. David Hemson becomes despondent about the lack of progress on the work of the Commission and considers withdrawing.
1971
2 December
Robert Sobukwe, former PAC leader, is finally refused permission to leave the country, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court dismisses his appeal against a lower court decision.
1971
4 December
The Defence Minister denies that South Africa has sent troops to Malawi to quell the security threat on Malawi’s southern border, but military equipment is being supplied.
Speaking at the installation of Prince Goodwill Zwelithini as Paramount Chief of the Zulu nation in Nongoma, the Minister of Bantu Administration and Development supports the traditional system of Chieftainship. His speech is resented by the Chief Executive Officer of the Zulu Territorial Authority, Chief Gatsha Buthelezi, who construes it as directed against himself.
1971
13 December
South Africa:Signs treaty with Australia concerning an international observer scheme for landbased whaling stations.
1972
The Black People’s Convention is formed to co-ordinate the Black Consciousness movement.
1972
Bophuthatswana, Ciskei and Lebowa are granted self-government status.
1972
Military conscription for white youths is extended to one year.
1972
Three important Black Consciousness Organisations are established:
1)The Black People's Convention (BPC)
2)Black Community Project (BPC)
3)South African Students' Movement (SASM)
The Chatsworth train boycott, a public stance on foreign investment attracts more attention to the Black People's Convention (BPC) The Black Allied Workers' Union is also launched.
1972 - 1977
Between 1972 and 1977, all the homelands were given self-government similar to that of the Transkei (Dugard 1978: 91). All enactments of the Legislative Assemblies of the homelands required the approval of the State President of the Republic of South Africa.
1972
Bophuthatswana, Ciskei and Lebowa proclaimed a self-governing territories.
1972
Marriage Act No 4:
Created a local marriage recognition regime, distinct from that of South Africa.
Commenced: 19 April 1973
1972
Lillian Ngoyi’s banning order lapses.
1972
Bernard 'śDancing Shoes'ť Hartze (Cape Town Spurs, Federation Professional league) sets a South African record for a single season goal-scoring average: 35 goals in 16 matches.
1972
January
The campus wages survey at UND had yet to be completed. The problem is with the questionnaires, which though completed, have to be redone. It is decided that Black fieldworkers conduct interviews and that money should be budgeted for this purpose.
At this time Mike Murphy of the UNP is asked to take over the Wages Commission.
Also at this time several studies are published on the 'minimum needs' debate. The South African Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) as well as the University of Port Elizabeth published findings on the PDL as well as the Minimum Effective Level (MEL).
1972
12 January
The Paramount Chief of the Zulus, Prince Goodwill Zwelethini, is officially removed as a member of the Zulu Legislative Assembly by an amendment to the Constitution. His position henceforth will be similar to that of the State President.
1972
27 January
Signs Convention on Psychotropic Substances.
1972
28 January
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that South Africa will not attend the African session of the United Nations Security Council in Addis Ababa. It is not a member and the circumstances are not exceptional enough to request permission to do so.
1972
2 February
An abridged version of the security report by Justice H.J. Potgieter’s Commission of Inquiry on State Security is submitted to the House of Assembly. The report finds that South Africa’s security is being threatened by numerous enemies in almost every sphere of society.
1972
4 February
At the United Nations Security Council’s Special Session on Colonialism and Racial Injustice in Southern Africa in Addis Ababa, a resolution is adopted condemning the government for its racial policies and calling for strict adherence by all states to the arms embargo.
The Prime Minister states in the House of Assembly in Cape Town that the United Nations General-Secretary, Dr. Waldheim, will be welcome and the government is willing to discuss with him, inter alia, black self-determination.
1972
4 February
The Security Council, meeting in Addis Ababa, adopted resolution 311 (1972) condemning apartheid; recognising the legitimacy of the struggle of the oppressed people of South Africa; calling upon South Africa to release all those imprisoned as a result of apartheid; calling upon all States to observe strictly the arms embargo against South Africa; urging governments and individuals to contribute to UN funds to assist victims of apartheid; and commending organisations and individuals assisting in the education and training of South Africans. The vote was 14 in favour and one abstention (France).
1972
10 February
The United Nations Secretary-General, Dr. Waldheim, announces in New York that he has received a formal invitation to visit South Africa for discussions without pre-conditions.
1972
11 February
The House of Assembly approves, by eighty-six votes to forty-three, a motion to appoint a Select Committee to inquire into and report upon the objects, organization, activities, financing and related matters of the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS), the South African Institute of Race Relations, the University Christian Movement (UCM), the Christian Institute of Southern Africa and their subordinate organizations.
1972
15 February
The Department of Bantu Development is planning for the consolidation of the ‘homelands’ by buying land in terms of the 1936 legislation.
1972
21 February
The Chairman of the South African Coloured Peoples Representative Council reports that the Prime Minister favours Coloureds gradually taking over all posts in the administration of coloured affairs.
1972
25 February
Signs extradition agreement with Malawi.
1972
29 February
Certificates of citizenship in the ‘homelands’ are to be issued by seven homeland authorities in their respective capitals in terms of the Bantu Homelands Citizenship Act of 1970.
1972
March
The United Nations Secretary-General, Dr. Kurt Waldheim, initiates discussions on the future of Namibia during a five-day visit to South Africa.
1972
March
Under the leadership of Murphy, the survey is completed. It finds that of the 59 unskilled African employees of the university, more than 70% earn wages below the PDL. Both the Durban and Pietermaritzburg Commissions recommend that the PDL be incorporated as the minimum wage level by January 1973. University authorities agreed to the recommendations only after students threaten to go to the press with their findings.
1972
4 March
Dr. Basil Moore, Johannesburg Methodist Minister, staff member of the Christian Institute and acting Secretary of the University Christian Movement, is restricted for five years under the Suppression of Communism Act,
The largest single construction work undertaken in South Africa, the Hendrik Verwoerd Dam on the Orange River, is officially opened by State President Fouché.
The United Party scores significant victories in municipal elections in Johannesburg and Randburg, continuing a noticeable swing against the National Party.
1972
6 March
The Democratic Party, formed by a splinter group from the National Party, indicates that it represents a coalition of the policies of the National, United and Progressive parties, and outlines its proposed reforms. These include granting the African population representation on municipal councils on the same basis as the white population.
1972
8 March
Suppression of Communism Amendment Act No 2:
Amended provisions regarding the participation of certain persons in the activities of certain organisations as well as ministerial powers regarding the registration of newspapers.
Commenced: 8 March 1972
Repealed by s 73(1) of the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982.
1972
16 March
The Head of the Security Police, General Venter, reports that nobody is still being held incommunicado under the Terrorism Act, and that all those people detained by the Security Police have now been released. However investigations continue.
1972
17 March - 24 March
President Fouché pays a state visit to Malawi and appeals for peaceful co-existence and cooperation between African states. An extradition agreement between the two countries is published in Pretoria on 24 March 1972.
1972
29 March
South Africa:Signs treaty with Brazil on the issue of avoiding double taxation on profits derived from shipping and aviation.
1972
April
A Legislative Assembly for Vendaland opens for the first time.
1972
April - June
Serious student unrest occurs at both black and white English-language universities leading to forceful police action against demonstrators in Cape Town, Johannesburg and elsewhere. Of the total 618 persons arrested in connection with student protests all those tried in court, for various alleged offences, are acquitted - except one student fined R50 for addressing a meeting.
1972
April
UCT students at the Wage Board sitting for the Mineral waters manufacturing industry point out that the government policy as stated in parliament earlier that year, is to reduce the historical wage gap between White and Black. Arguing that the gap had actually widened, the students question the role of the Board in preventing the position of Black workers from deteriorating further.
1972
1 April
The names of the four ‘homelands’ are changed: from Basotho ha Borwa (Southern Sotho) to Basotho-Qwaqwa; from Tswanaland to Bophuthatswana; from Machangana to Gazankulu; from Zululand to Kwazulu.
Under its new constitution Kwazulu Territorial Authority becomes Kwazulu Legislative Assembly. Its members undertake to honour and respect the State President and the Paramount Chief, but do not swear allegiance to the South African government and the Zulu royal family is denied executive powers.
1972
5 April
South Africa:Signs additional articles relevant to the constitution of the Universal Postal Union.
1972
6 April
In the Natal Supreme Court in Pietermaritzburg, at the end of the longest trial of its kind in South Africa, thirteen defendants (nine Africans, two Indians and two Coloureds) are sentenced to imprisonment from five to eight years for contravening the Terrorism Act. They are found guilty of conspiring to overthrow the government by force.
1972
10 April
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the prohibition of the development, production and stockpiling of bacteriological and toxic weapons and their destruction.
1972
14 April
The appeal by the Anglican Dean, the Very Rev. Gonville Aubie ffrench-Beytagh, against his conviction and sentence under the Terrorism Act is upheld in the Appellate Division of the South African Supreme Court in Bloemfontein. The Dean thereupon leaves South Africa for Britain on the same day.
1972
19 April
The National Party increases its majority in the Oudtshoorn by-election. In the campaign heavy emphasis is placed on the dangers of the United Party race policies.
1972
3 May
Onkgopotse Abram Tiro is expelled from University of the North (Turfloop), student protests follow his expulsion. Click here to read Graduation Speech by Onkgopotse Tiro at the University of the North (Turfloop), 29 April 1972, which led to his expulsion
1972
4 May
The Foreign Minister announces that South Africa and Lesotho have decided to establish reciprocal consular representation.
The Transkei Legislative Assembly requests independence for the Transkei, subject to the inclusion of additional white areas.
1972
12 May
The South African Students Organisation (SASO) adopts the 'śAlice Declaration'ť at the federal Theological Seminary in the Eastern Cape. The Declaration resolves that students nationwide should close down Black institutions of higher education through lecture boycotts in support of the expelled, Onkgopotse Abram Tiro, from the University of the North (Turfloop)
1972
24 May
The Security Intelligence and State Security Council Bill is adopted defining the functions and duties of the Bureau of State Security (BOSS), and setting up a State Security Council, with the Prime Minister as Chairman, to advise government on national policy and strategy on security. It has the support of both opposition parties.
The first hijacking of a South African Airways plane takes place on a flight to Malawi. The two men responsible are subsequently apprehended and tried.
1972
June
A sixteen day inquest at the Regional Court in Johannesburg concludes that A.E. Timol, a political detainee who fell to his death from the tenth floor of a building while in police custody, committed suicide, and nobody is held accountable.
1972
June
At a meeting of textile and furniture workers in Bolton Hall, Hemson tables the idea of starting a union, but this is not pursued. Harriet Bolton puts forward the idea of a fund to collect subscriptions from workers and to administer funeral benefits, which is enthusiastically accepted by the meeting. The General Factory Workers Benefit Fund (GFWBF) is launched in Durban and the first members sign up in October at the Benefit Fund's Pietermaritzburg office.
1972
1 June
Bophuthatswana is granted self government
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the conservation of Antarctic seals.
1972
1 June
The planned reopening of the University of the North (Turfloop) fails. Every major Black campus endorses strike action. Their grievances go beyond the Turfloop expulsions to reiterate long-standing student complaints about domination by White staff, biased curricula and demeaning campus conditions.
1972
2 June
Student protest erupts into violence outside St. George’s Cathedral in Cape Town. Force is used to dispel demonstrators.
1972
2 June
Admission of Persons to the Republic Regulation Act No 59:
Consolidated the laws relating to prohibited persons and to the admission of persons to the Republic or any of its provinces.
Commenced: 2 June 1972
Repealed by s 60 of the Abolition of Racially Based Land Measures Act No 108 of 1991.
1972
6 June
A proclamation is issued tinder the Riotous Assemblies Act banning political gatherings, processions, and protests for five weeks in the Cape, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and thirteen other places.
1972
7 June
The Chief Executive Councillor of Kwazulu, Chief Buthelezi, condemns plans to consolidate Zululand in terms of the 1936 Trust and Land Act.
1972
12 June
The Post Office Amendment Bill provides for the interception of mall and telephone and other communications where necessary in the interests of state security. Only the Progressive Party member, Helen Suzman, votes against it.
1972
14 June
Security Intelligence and State Security Council Act No 64:
Commenced: 14 June 1972
Repealed by s 7 of the National Strategic Intelligence Act No 39 of 1994.
1972
16 June
The resignation of the Minister of the Interior, Theo Gerdener, is announced and will take effect from 31 July 1972.
The government gives its details of its proposals to consolidate 157 ‘black spots’ and sixty eight Zulu areas into a homeland. Kwazulu will be consolidated as rapidly as possible. However, Chief Gatsha Buthelezi rejects these plans.
1972
23 June
The Malagasy Foreign Minister declares that his country is going to reconsider its policy of dialogue with South Africa.
1972
27 June
South Africa suspends any further dealing with the Malagasy government.
1972
July
The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) informs the non-racial South African Soccer Federation (SASF), led by Mr. Norman Middleton, that its application for membership arrived too late to be placed before the next congress of FIFA in August. FIFA also clarifies that the White Football Association of South Africa had not been suspended for contravening its rules but because of South African Government policy. Acceptance of FIFA would have meant expulsion of FASA (Football Association of South Africa).
1972
July
Under pressure from the Commission, the university administration allows a University of Natal Employee Association to be formed. Black workers at UNP and UND hold their first meetings. The first leader of the Durban Committee is Fidelis Ngobese. Issues raised at the first meeting are the use of the words 'boy' and 'kaffir' by White staff members, and the different wages paid to workers of different race.
1972
1 July
Gazankulu holds its first General Assembly.
1972
2 July - 9 July
Themba Sono is ousted as South African Student Organisation (SASO) President, in a General Student Council meeting held in Hammanskraal. Sono stands for close co-operation between SASO and some homeland leaders. Chief Gatsha Buthelezi is seen by as an undeniable force in South Africa politics. SASO advocates a radical approach towards the homeland leaders, calling them puppets of the Pretoria regime.
1972
12 July
A new black political party, the Black People’s Convention is formed after a three-day conference in Pietermaritzburg. The objective of the Convention is to unite South African blacks into a political organization seeking to realize their liberation and emancipation from both psychological and physical oppression. It is open only to black members.
1972
14 July
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, announces that Coloureds are to have their own defence force units undergoing twelve months voluntary national service, to be called the South African State Corps Special Service Battalion.
1972
18 July - 19 July
Stevedores turn out in large numbers at the respective Wage Board sittings in Durban and Cape Town to argue their case for a minimum wage of R18, based on the PDL. Supported by evidence from the Commission, the workers are of the view that they have succeeded in obtaining their wage increases. The slow workings of the Wage Board are such that by October of that year, there is still no news on this.
1972
31 July
The Prime Minister announces that, following the resignation of five members of the Cabinet, he has reorganized his government.
South Africa:Signs amendment to the trade agreement of 20 August 1932 with Great Britain.
1972
August
The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) executive gives special permission to the Football Association of South Africa to have overseas teams participate in the South African Games in Pretoria in 1973, asking for assurance that Blacks would be allowed to watch the games. (South Africa has friends in the FIFA executive; its position in the FIFA Congress is weak. Congress approval was not necessary for the above special permission and the matter was not mentioned at the FIFA Congress in Paris.)
1972
1 August
The Ciskei is given self-government. Chief Justice Mabandla becomes Chief Minister, and the heads of the territory’s six departments become Ministers. The following day Mabandla makes a huge land claim asking for all the white-owned land between the Kei and the Fish Rivers in the Eastern Cape and between the coast and the Orange River
1972
5 August
The state-owned Atlas Aircraft Corporation is to build an advanced subsonic fighter to be airborne in 1974. Also during the next eighteen months the first Mirage F-I supersonic interceptors being built under licence from France will be in service with the South African Air Force.
1972
7 August
Chief Matanzima (Transkei) outlines proposals for the creation of Xhosaland a new black super-state to include the Transkei, Ciskei and white-owned land between the Fish and Kei Rivers, and East Griqualand.
1972
10 August
Naval Headquarters at Simonstown announce that the second series of joint British South African exercises off the Cape Coast will begin on 14 August 1972 and will continue for seven days.
1972
11 August
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development declares that no more land will be allocated to the ‘homelands’ other than that stipulated in the 1936 Land Act.
1972
18 August
The first four Bantu Affairs Administration Boards are gazetted. They are intended to facilitate centralized administrative control and improved mobility of labour.
1972
25 August
Harry Schwarz wins the Transvaal party leadership of the United Party (UP) from Marais Steyn.
1972
12 September
Dr. H. Muller is elected as the National Party’s leader in the Transvaal, following the resignation of B. Schoeman. His election is considered to make him the successor-designate to John Vorster as Prime Minister.
1972
28 September
Proposals for the consolidation of ‘homelands’ in the Transvaal which will have the effect of reducing twenty six or twenty-seven specified areas to nine are announced. The purchase of white-owned land, involving a total of 310,000 hectares, for addition to black areas is a long and difficult task.
1972 - 1973
October - February
A wave of strikes by black workers begins in the autumn of 1972 and escalates dramatically in the first months of 1973, the main centre of unrest being Durban.
1972
October
As the new wages for dockworkers have not yet come into effect, stevedores in Cape Town and Durban embark on a strike. It ends when workers are given an ultimatum to return to work or face retrenchment.
1972
2 October
Lebowa, the Northern Sotho ‘homeland’, becomes the fourth ‘homeland, with Bheshego as its temporary capital. Under its new have constitution there will be a cabinet consisting of a Chief Minister and five other Ministers. External affairs, defence and communications will continue to be controlled by the South African government.
1972
20 October
Lebowa proclaimed a self-governing territory.
1972
25 October
The International Monetary Fund announces it has concurred in a proposal by the government for a change in the par value of the Rand representing a 4.202 percent devaluation in relation to gold but an effective appreciation of Great about 4 percent in comparison with the current market exchange of the Rand.
1972
1 November
At the end of a lengthy trial in the Supreme Court in Pretoria, four Indians Chief are convicted of conspiracy under the Terrorism Act and sentenced to a minimum of five years imprisonment. Their intention was the violent overthrow of the system of government.
1972
2 November
The first session of the newly elected Bophuthatswana Legislative Assembly is opened in Mafeking by President Fouché.
1972
15 November
The United Nations General Assembly passes six resolutions in plenary denouncing the government’s apartheid policy and various aspects of that policy. Each resolution is sponsored by some fifty African, Asian and Communist countries, the various resolutions receiving in every case over 100 votes in favour, being opposed by South Africa and Portugal and abstentions varying from one to twenty-one votes.
1972
15 November
In resolution 2923 E (XXVII), the General Assembly declared that "the United Nations has a vital interest in securing the speedy elimination of apartheid".
1972
15 November
In resolution 2923 E (XXVII), the General Assembly declared that "the United Nations has a vital interest in securing the speedy elimination of apartheid".
1972
23 November
Passports have been withdrawn from three white staff members of the joint Institute of Race Relations.
1972
December
The new wage determination from the Wage Board comes into effect. It is a R1 increase for stevedores, to a minimum wage of R9,50. This is just under 50% of the R18 PDL mooted by the workers in July. As a result, 2000 workers strike in Durban and 20 are dismissed. Concerned that Cape Town workers would face dismissal if they struck, students in the Commission there encourage workers to write to the Secretary of Labour, and to consider forming a trade union. Pamphlets giving workers advice on how to go about forming a union are distributed.
1972
1 December
South Africa:Signs treaty with Great Britain on air services (Hong Kong) via Seychelles.
South Africa:Signs amendment to an agreement regarding the establishment of civil air services with Great Britain.
1972
2 December
South Africa:Signs International Convention for Containers.
1972
3 December
Theo Gerdener resigns from the National Party on account of his involvement with Action South and Southern Africa (ACASA), an independent organization dedicated to better communication, which he ‘(UP) founded.
1972
5 December
It is announced that White, Coloured and Asian workers affiliated to the Trade Union Council of South Africa (TUCSA) have voted overwhelmingly in favour of extending full trade union rights to Africans. Minister of Labour Viljoen opposes it.
1972
8 December
South Africa:Signs treaty with Swaziland on the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
1972
16 December
The Black People’s Convention (BPC) holds its first National Congress. Its Constitution declares it intends to preach and popularize the philosophy of Black Consciousness and black solidarity.
1972
16 December
The first national congress of the Black People's Convention (BPC) is held in Hammanskraal.
Activist Mthuli Shezi, who inspired Black Consciousness ideas through his writings and plays, dies. He is pushed beneath a moving train at Germiston Station for standing up for the dignity of Black women who were being drenched with water by a White station cleaner.
1973
A massive strike begins in Durban.
1973
Under a delimitation carried out to take effect at the next elections the number of seats in the House of Assembly is increased from 166 to 171 generally of benefit to the ruling National Party.
1973
Wave of massive strikes in Natal.
1973
Venda and Gazankulu proclaimed a self-governing territories.
1973
Aliens Control Act No 40:
Exempted Indians from the need to obtain permits for travel between provinces. However, in terms of provincial legislation, Indians were not allowed to stay in the Orange Free State and parts of northern Natal for more than a brief period unless prior permission had been obtained (Dugard 1978: 73).
Repealed by s 60 of the Abolition of Racially Based Land Measures Act No 108 of 1991.
1973
Black Labour Relations Regulation Amendment Act 70:
This Act was passed in response to a wave of strikes in 1972 and 1973 (Bendix 1989: 302) and included a limited right to strike. Previously black workers had been completely prohibited from striking.
Repealed by s 63 of the Labour Relation Amendment Act No 57 of 1981.
1973
Gazankulu proclaimed a self-governing territory.
1973
Phyllis qualifies as a lawyer but cannot practice because she is banned.
1973 - 1974
Thabo Mbeki is in Botswana having talks with the Botswana Government about the opening of the African National Congress Offices.
1973
January - February
Durban is swept by a wave of spontaneous strikes by Black workers. This prompts reserved acknowledgment from industry, and attracts worldwide publicity. Though none of the Black organisations can claim credit for the strikes, nonetheless the strikes demonstrate the potential for successful industrial action. Many Black radicals consider the possibility of forming a student-worker alliance. The Black People's Convention (BPC) give their support to the Durban strikers.
1973
1 January
Gazankulu: Education Act No 7:
Commenced: 1 January 1974
1973
9 January
Workers at the Coronation Brick & Tile factory in Durban down tools and demand first R20, and then R30 per week. This strike sparks off a chain of strikes throughout Durban which, by early February, see almost 30 000 workers on strike throughout Durban.
Students of the Wages Commission are seen in some quarters, particularly by government, to have been 'agitators'. Subsequent interviews with workers play down the role of the Wages Commission in the 73 strikes, citing their 'disgusting' low wages as the main reason for the strikes.
1973
12 January
A notice providing for compulsory education for Indians is gazetted.
1973
18 January
The Kwazulu government issues a document signed by all six Executive Councillors inviting the South African government to test its consolidation plan for the homeland by holding a referendum among all race groups in Natal and Kwazulu.
1973
19 January
Prime Minister Vorster, confirms that the government has not been Earl consulted over Rhodesia’s closure of its border with Zambia, but that the government will assist in opposing terrorism.
1973
23 January
The Prime Minister announces that a first-ever multi-racial commission will investigate the political and socio-economic future of the Coloured community.
1973
24 January
Premier Vorster, decrees that in the future the ‘homelands’ will be allowed to accept direct foreign financial aid.
1973
25 January
South Africa:Signs a treaty with the Federal Republic of Germany on double taxation.
1973
26 January
The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) announced, after a postal ballot of the executive committee, to allow foreign teams to go to South Africa to participate in the South African Games in March.
1973
27 January
Chief Matanzima of the Transkei suggests that a federation between blacks and whites would save South Africa from destruction.
1973
February - April
The government’s reaction to the strikes is a revision of wage levels for unskilled workers; training facilities for blacks; an improvement of communication between black labour and employers.
Widespread industrial unrest among black workers is experienced. The underlying cause is identified as the fact that black workers have assumed increasing importance in the country’s economy, yet they are denied the right to strike or bargain collectively and their trade union is not officially
recognized.
1973
February
Rick Turner (UND Lecturer), Neville Curtis, Halton Cheadle, Paula Ensor, David Hemson and David Davis are all served with banning orders. There is a subsequent slump in both Wages Commission and union activities.
1973
1 February
The government grants internal self-government to two further ‘homelands’, namely to Venda and Gazankulu territories.
1973
11 February
The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) withdraws the special permission it had given to amateur football teams to take part in the South African Games to be held in Pretoria in March-April 1973, when it becomes clear that FASA is planning separate teams for different ethnic groups. FIFA had temporarily lifted suspension on the Football Association of South Africa (FASA) on the understanding that the Games would be multi-racial.
1973
12 February
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty and operating agreement relating to the Intelsat.
1973
19 February
Unrest among black workers over wage improvement continues. Police arrest 244 African workers, of whom 169 are subsequently charged.
1973
20 February
The Minister of Labour announces instructions to the Wage Board to revise certain determinations applying to unskilled labourers in major centres. Minimum wages rise by over thirty per cent.
1973
21 February
The first general elections to the Ciskei’s Legislative Assembly are held in the territory’s nine districts. There are no political parties; the candidates are elected to the twenty elective seats in their individual capacity, the remaining thirty seats are filled by Chiefs appointed ex officio.
1973
27 February
The Commission of Inquiry, appointed by the Prime Minister, to investigate the activities of four organizations, among them the National Union of South African Students (NUSAS) submits a detailed interim report on NUSAS to the Assembly, recommending action against eight NUSAS leaders. The Commission, under the chairmanship of AL. Schlebush, comprises five other National Party MPs and four opposition United Party MPs. The approval of the report by its four UP members is widely criticized.
On the same day banning orders under the Suppression of Communism Act of 1950 are served on eight NUSAS leaders. On the following day violent student clashes take place in Johannesburg.
1973
March
Early March:The Portuguese Foreign Minister, Dr. Rul Patricio, pays a five-day official visit to South Africa. He declares, on 6 March 1973, that there are no plans for a military alliance between Portugal, South Africa and Rhodesia.
1973
March
Initially the government views the Black Consciousness movement as apparently supportive of their 'separate development' ideology, and thus tolerates them. Later clamp-downs see bannings of South African Students' Organisation (SASO) and Black People's Convention (BPC) leaders Steve Biko, Barney Pityana and six others.
1973
2 March
It is announced in Johannesburg that restriction orders have been issued against six leaders of the South African Students Organization (SASO) and against two men closely associated with the Black People’s Convention (BPC).
1973
3 March
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on international trade in endangered species of wild flora and fauna.
1973
4 March
In the British House of Commons the Trade and Industry Sub-Committee of the Select Committee on Expenditure proposes an inquiry ‘To investigate how far wages and conditions of employment of African workers employed by British companies in South Africa represent a factor affecting investment prospects, export performance, and the reputation abroad of British industry’. The proposal is accepted.
1973
8 March
The Minister of Justice defends the banning orders on eight black leaders on the grounds that he is preventing acts of terrorism worse than any previously experienced. The opposition queries why, in such a case, the leaders are not taken to court.
The Prime Minister, B.J. Vorster, officially opens the South African Navy’s R15m. Maritime Operational and Communications Headquarters at Silvermine, near Simonstown.
1973
12 March
In the wake of strikes in Natal in February, The Guardian publishes a documented report on the low wages paid to black workers in South Africa by companies with British connections.
1973
14 March
The Supreme Council for Sports in Africa (SCSA) asks the national Olympic committees of Belgium, Great Britain, Japan, the Netherlands and West Germany, to do everything in their power to prevent members of their respective countries from participating in the Pretoria Games from 23 March to 7 April 1973.
1973
20 March
Sports Minister, Dr. P. Koornhof, says the government will not allow organizations inside or outside the country to disrupt the South African games.
Evidence of guerrilla training in the Soviet Union and Tanzania is given in the trial of six people, on nineteen charges under the Terrorism Act, appearing before Justice Boshoff in Pretoria.
1973
21 March
The banning orders on NUSAS leaders are discussed by the Principals of four English language universities with the Prime Minister, who is unsympathetic. Extra-Parliamentary action to bring about change in the form of government in South Africa will not be tolerated.
1973
21 March
Black Laws Amendment Act No 7:
Designed to speed up the planning for partial consolidation of homelands. The 1927 Black Administration Act was amended so that ‘a removal order might be served on a Bantu Community as well as on a tribe or portion thereof’ (Horrell 1978: 205). If a tribe refused to move, and Parliament approved the plan, the tribe was unable to appeal to Parliament.
Commenced: 21 March 1973
Repealed by the Abolition of Influx Control Act No 68 of 1986.
1973
27 March
A major detailed Administration statement is made by the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, David Newsom, to the African Sub-Committee of the House of Representatives, chaired by Congressman Charles Diggs concerning American business involvement in South Africa. It stresses that peaceful change in South Africa can be fostered if American firms promote better conditions for blacks.
1973
29 March
The British government publishes in Trade and Industry, guidelines for British companies operating in South Africa.
1973
3 April
Chief Kaiser Matanzima (Transkei) calls for a federation of white and black states in South Africa. His party stands for a policy of separation of races on an equal and parallel basis, rejecting racial discrimination and white dominance.
1973
9 April
The International Commission of Jurists condemns the bannings of black leaders.
The New Zealand Prime Minister announces that the invitation to an all-white South African rugby team had to be withdrawn because of its racial selection.
1973
9 April - 14 April
International Conference of Experts for Support of Victims of Colonialism and Apartheid in Southern Africa, Oslo.
1973
9 April - 14 April
International Conference of Experts for Support of Victims of Colonialism and Apartheid in Southern Africa, Oslo.
1973
10 April
Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, defines South Africa’s defence policy in a White Paper tabled in the House of Assembly. While primarily defensive, the policy must also include a significant retaliatory capability.
1973
11 April
Forty members are elected to Lebowa’s Legislative Assembly, the remaining sixty seats being allocated to nominated chiefs. Cedric Phatudi becomes is Chief Minister.
1973
14 April
The Bophuthatswana government rejects the South African government’s consolidation proposals and, in return, claims large portions of North Western and Western Transvaal and sizeable areas of the Northern Cape and the Free State.
Signs multilateral treaty on the issue of telegraph and telephone regulations.
1973
20 April
The South African Police Force stationed in the Caprivi Strip, bordering Zambia, suffer casualties in clashes with ‘terrorists’.
1973
24 April
The ambush and killing of policemen by Zambian based terrorists is reported from the Caprivi Strip. Zambia denies that it harbours freedom fighters’.
1973
25 April
Prime Minister Vorster, confirms in the House of Assembly that the blacks would receive all the land provided for in the 1936 Native Trust and Land Act.
The Schlebusb Commission of Inquiry issues its third interim report, focusing on the Wilgespruit Fellowship Centre, an institution stated to be working towards radical social and political change and employing procedures counter to accepted religion and religious practice. The Prime Minister gives its controlling body, the South African Council of Churches (SACC) three weeks to clear it up.
1973
27 April
Details of the government’s final consolidation proposals for the ‘homelands’ involving land in the provinces of Natal and Transvaal are given at a press conference by the Minister of Bantu Administration and Development, M.C. Botha. They are tabled in Parliament and approved on.
1973
29 April
The Prime Minister indicates that the ‘homelands’ will be perfectly free to form a federation among themselves, once they have achieved hill independence. However he is not prepared to share the sovereignty of the white people with any other national group.
1973
4 May
The Minister for Bantu Administration and Development hands over the symbols of authority to the Kwazulu Legislative Authority.
1973
12 May
A Bill prohibiting demonstrations near the Houses of Parliament in Cape Town is passed with the support of the opposition United Party.
1973
15 May - 11 July
The British Trade and Industry Sub-Committe holds eighteen public sittings; twenty eight companies give oral evidence, 100 others written evidence. Most state they have given unscheduled wage increases to black workers in the period before and during the House of Commons inquiry.
1973
16 May
The Minister of Justice banns all protest meetings in the centre of Cape Town, following student protests. Several arrests are made.
1973
18 May
Signs multilateral treaty on the issue of the simplification and harmonization of customs procedures.
1973
21 May
The Bantu Labour Relations Regulation Amendment Bill is read for the first time in the House of Assembly. It creates more effective machinery for communication between employers and African workers and gives the Minister of Labour wide powers to stimulate improvements in working conditions. Africans are given a more direct role in wage negotiations.
1973
24 May
In connection with the uranium enrichment programme, disclosed by the Prime Minister in July 1970, his announced in the House of Assembly that the government has decided to make funds available for preparatory work for establishing a full-scale prototype plant for the economic enrichment of uranium.
1973
25 May
Final land consolidation proposals for Bophuthatswana are announced. They involve moving more than 120,000 Tswana people from their present lands.
1973
25 May
The Minister of Sport and Recreation, Dr. P.G.J. Koornhof, announces in the House of Assembly that the Government had given approval 'śfor the staging in 1974 of an open national soccer tournament in which the different South African nations can participate on a multinational basis. This is that a South African representative white team, a South African representative Coloured team, a South African representative Indian team and a South African representative Zulu, Xhosa or any other Bantu (sic) national team can compete in the tournament.'ť
A Whites-only team beats a Blacks-only team twice in the 'śmulti-national'ť South African Games (4-0; 3-1) at the Rand Stadium, Johannesburg.
1973
26 May
A comprehensive policy statement on South Africa’s new multi-national sports concessions is made by Sports Minister Dr. P. Koornhof in the House of Assembly. Separate participation will be maintained at club, provincial and national levels. Mixed competition will be only at international level.
1973
6 June
Resettlement of 363,000 Africans is expected to result. Gatsha Buthelezi protests over the limited concessions and threatens non-cooperation.
1973
15 June - 16 June
International Trade Union Conference against Apartheid - organised by the Workers' Group of the ILO Governing Body, in cooperation with the UN Special Committee against Apartheid, at Palais des Nations, Geneva.
1973
15 June - 16 June
International Trade Union Conference against Apartheid - organised by the Workers' Group of the ILO Governing Body, in cooperation with the UN Special Committee against Apartheid, Palais des Nations, Geneva.
1973
20 June
Prison sentences ranging from five to fifteen years are imposed by Justice W.G. Boshoff in Pretoria on six defendants convicted under the Terrorism Act. They are found guilty of various charges including conspiring in South Africa, the Soviet Union, Somalia and Britian with the ANC, to overthrow the South African government by force and preparing for violent revolution.
The Minister of Defence denies that South African troops are supporting Portuguese armed forces in Mozambique, as alleged by FREL1MO.
1973
July - September
‘Homeland’ leaders Chief Buthelezi, Professor Ntsanwisi, and TM. Molahlawa warn the South African government of worsening race relations.
1973
4 July
The Bantu Labour Regulations Amendment Bill becomes operative. The conditions under which Africans - for the first time - have the legal right to strike, the procedures to be followed, and the exclusion from it of certain essential services categories of workers are laid down.
1973
20 July
The Minister of Coloured Affairs announces that the government has decided to appoint a judicial commission to investigate student grievances and conduct at the University of the Western Cape, closed between 11 June and 15 July 1973, following various demands and protests.
1973
28 July
The Deputy Minister of Bantu Administration and Education, Punt Janson, invites guidance in humanizing the pass laws and influx control measures by which African mobility is regulated, in the interests of the communities.
1973
30 July
The former Minister of the Interior, Theo Gerdener, announces details of his scheme for a new political organization whose aim will be to work for two separate states in South Africa, one for Africans and the other for White, Indian and Coloured peoples with equality for all.
1973
August
Banning orders continue. Passports are refused, or withdrawn.
1973
1 August
A High Court is established in Umtata, capital of the Transkei. The first Chief Justice sworn in is a white South African.
1973
7 August
Students strike at the University of Fort Hare. The Students Organization (SASO) is held responsible for the agitation. Further violence erupts on the campus on 28 August 1973.
1973
15 August - 16 August
Elections are held in Venda. Traditionalist Chief Patrick R. Mphephu is returned to power despite electoral victory for the opposition Vendaland Independent People’s Party, additional seats being filled by nominated headmen.
1973
24 August
South Africa:Signs treaty with Lesotho relating to the establishment of an office for a Lesotho government labour representative in South Africa.
South Africa:Signs boundary treaty with Botswana.
1973
24 August
Legal Aid Act No 2:
Provided legal aid for blacks, which was absent in the South African setting.
Commenced: 24 August 1973
1973
25 August
The Prime Minister warns the opposition parties, the United Party and Progressive Party, that his government may have to end interference by whites in the political affairs of Africans and vice-versa. He is particularly opposed to representatives of black and Coloured communities being invited to speak at their congresses which can only heighten friction between racial groups.
1973
29 August
Signs treaty with Brazil regarding the exemption from customs duties to consuls and consulates of both states.
1973
September
The Premier of West German Schleswig-Holstein says during a visit to South Africa that more German entrepreneurs should be attracted to the ‘homelands’.
1973
11 September
Eleven rioting miners are shot by police and twenty-seven injured at the Western Deep Levels mine, Carltonville in a confrontation arising from a pay dispute. The incident arouses international concern.
1973
13 September
Chief Gatsha Buthelezi, the Chief Councillor, announces that the South African government has agreed that members of the Kwazulu Executive Council should be allowed to possess firearms.
1973
20 September
The United States House of Representatives Judiciary Sub-Committee opens an inquiry into the South African operations of 320 American firms, with a view to determining whether they follow fair employment practices.
1973
24 September
Gazankulu: Social Pensions Act No 7:
Commenced: 24 September 1976
1973
25 September
The New Zealand government announces that it terminates all tariff preferences previous granted to South Africa, as from 1 January 1974.
1973
October
A plan is launched by the government and leading blacks, for the formation of twenty-two councils to represent the country’s 6,000,000 urban Africans.
1973
3 October
Prime Minister Vorster indicates that there is nothing to prevent employers taking the necessary steps to bring about improvements in the productive use of black labour. The government will not obstruct changes in the country’s traditional work patterns.
1973
5 October
The Minister of Labour exercises his power under the Bantu Labour Relations Regulation Bill to order minimum wage increases of between fifty and ninety per cent for a large proportion of the more than 100,000 Africans employed in the civil engineering and road-making industries in main urban areas.
The United Nations General Assembly rejects South Africa’s credentials. The Assembly President rules, however, that the measure does not affect the delegations right to participate, and the Prime Minister affirms South Africa’s intention to remain in the United Nations despite mounting opposition.
A State Presidential Proclamation, widening powers of the Group Areas Act, is published in a bid to prevent multi-racial matches at Pietermaritzburg’s Aurora Cricket Club.
1973
7 October - 20 October
A delegation of British Trade Union leaders carry out an intensive programme of visits and talks, investigating trade union conditions and meeting the Prime Minister and several other government ministers. Their leader, Victor Feather, President of the European Trade Union Confederation, outlines a six point plan for industrial prosperity and black workers advancement. The government rejects it.
1973
12 October
The Minister of Labour says that the government will neither abolish job reservation nor recognize black trade unions.
1973
16 October
Signs treaty with Spain for the prevention of double taxation on income derived from the operation of ships or aircraft in international traffic.
1973
16 October - 17 October
Elections are held in Gazankulu. Professor Hudson Ntsanwisi is unanimously re-elected leader of the Gazankulu Legislative Assembly.
1973
19 October
KwaZulu: Medium of Instruction and Language Act No 5:
Commenced: 19 October 1973
1973
21 October
It is reported that the government has banned twenty black leaders of black organizations, including the South African Students’ Organization (SASO), the Black People’s Convention (BPC) the Black Community Programme (BCP), the Black Allied Workers’ Union and the Black Workers’ Project. Members of the South African Black Scholars’ Association (SABSA) are interrogated security police.
1973
24 October
In the elections the Transkei National Independence Party wins twenty-five seats, the Democratic Party ten, Independents eight. Another sixty-four Assembly seats are filled by chiefs appointed ex officio by the government.
1973
27 October
The Carltonville inquests exonerates the police from any blame for the shootings at the Western Deep Levels on 11 September 1973, in which eleven black miners were killed and which caused an international outcry.
1973
8 November
A meeting convened by Chief Lucas Mangope, Chief Minister of Bophuthatswana, held in Umtata in camera and attended by eight ‘homeland’ leaders to work out a common approach to the. government, lay emphasis on the concept of one black nation. Resolutions are passed for the establishment of a black bank, abolition of influx control and consolidation of ‘homelands’ into single units.
1973
9 November
At its Biennial Congress in Bloemfontein the United Party adopts a new six-point declaration of principles, and ratifies a new federal plan committed to a federal constitution.
1973
9 November - 11 November
The Progressive Party supports the idea of a federation of autonomous states in Southern Africa.
1973
16 November
Dr. Beyers Naudé, Director of the Christian Institute is found guilty by a Pretoria regional court of refusing to testify before the Schlebusch Commission, because its hearings were held in secret.
1973
17 November
The Democratic Party officially comes into being at a one-day conference in Johannesburg attended by some 200 delegates from the four provinces. Theo Gerdener is unanimously elected leader of the party.
1973
28 November
An Arab oil embargo against South Africa, brings the prospects of rationing and the extension of conservation measures.
1973
30 November
The United Nations General Assembly adopts, by ninety one votes to four, the Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid. To become international law its ratification by twenty countries is still required.
1973
30 November
International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid approved by the General Assembly [Resolution 3068(XXVIII)].
1973
30 November
International Convention on the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid approved by the General Assembly [Resolution 3068(XXVIII)].
1973
4 December
Following the placing of an embargo on the supply of oil to South Africa from Arab countries, the Prime Minister announces restricted trading hours, but states that petrol rationing is not as yet being introduced.
1973
7 December
Further bannings are gazetted, including that of the former leader of the South African Indian Congress, Yusuf Cachalia who has already spent twenty years under restriction.
1973
11 December
Land consolidation proposals for the Transkei and Ciskei are announced, involving black acquisition of Port St Johns and Indwe.
1973
14 December
The United Nations adopts a resolution declaring that the South African government has no right to represent the people of that country and that representation should instead be vested in the African national liberation movements.
1973
14 December
The General Assembly declared that the South African regime has "no right to represent the people of South Africa" and that the liberation movements recognised by the OAU are "the authentic representatives of the overwhelming majority of the South African people". [Resolution 3151 G (XXVIII)]
1973
15 December
The British Trade Union Congress (TUC) publishes a report on black labour conditions. Among the major recommendations it advocates is the organization of black workers into trade unions.
1973
19 December
South Africa;Signs International Sugar Agreement.
1973
24 December
Signs agreement with Botswana relating to the establishment of a Botswana government labour representative in South Africa.
1974
The United Nations General Assembly (under the chairpersonship of the Algerian Foreign Minister) refuses to recognise the credentials of the South African delegation, a significant victory for the ANC.
1974
Fietas, Johannesburg: The Oriental Plaza is established, but stands virtually empty until 1976 when unwilling traders are forcibly removed from their shops in Pageview.
1974
The performance of Black drama and music by mushrooming township cultural groups becomes a significant factor in the dispersal of Black Consciousness philosophy.
1974
QwaQwa proclaimed a self-governing territory.
1974
Prisons Act No 6:
Set out prison services in Transkei.
Commenced: 1 August 1975
1974
Lebowa: Education Act No 6:
Commenced: 24 January 1975
1974
Baleka Kgositsile is active in the Black Consciousness Movement and the ANC underground.
Mamphela Ramphele is charged under the Suppression of Communism Act for being in possession of banned literature.
1974
When 11 and in Std. 3 (Grade 5), Robert McBride's father makes him read "Coloured: A profile of 2 million South Africans" by Al J. Venter, an unusually progressive book for its time. The book draws attention to the contribution of Coloured people in the struggle against apartheid, some of whom went into exile and chose violent resistance. It introduces McBride to Coloured political activists such as James April, Don Mattera, Jakes Gerwel, Basil February and his own uncle, Rev. Clive McBride. Discussions that Robert has with his father around these issues create a lasting impression in him.
1974 - 1975
Through a childhood friend, Andre Koopman, Robert McBride is further politicized. Andre is influenced by an elder friend, Ashley, a medical student at Natal University's Alan Taylor Residence right next door to Wentworth, Robert's home.
Through Ashley, Robert is introduced to the politics of the regenerating trade union movement, Black Consciousness (including the writing of Steve Biko) and the Frelimo independence movement in Mozambique.
1974
(edit) Winnie and Peter Magubane lose their appeals and each begin their six months jail sentence for communicating with each other when prohibited from doing so. Winnie is cited women of the year by British women.
1974
A Whites-only team defeats a Blacks-only team (2-0) in the Embassy Multinational Series at the Rand Stadium.
1974
Thabo Mbeki begins to train South African Students who escapes from South Africa to join the African National Congress in exile. After training them they are sent to African National Congress camps in Mozambique and Zambia.
1974
1 January
With effect from this date the New Zealand government terminates all tariff preferences previously granted to South Africa.
1974
4 January
The leader of the United Party in the Transvaal, Harry Swartz, signs a five-point ‘declaration of faith’ with Chief Gatsha Buthelezi of Kwazulu. Its purpose is to provide a blueprint for government by consent and racial peace in a multi-racial society, stressing opportunity for all, consultation, the federal concept, and a Bill of Rights.
1974
30 January
The United Party controlled Johannesburg City Council announces the dismantling of petty apartheid practices
1974
February
The report of the one-man Commission of Inquiry into the University of the Western Cape by Justice IT. van Wyk urges that disruption and incitement at all South African universities be made a legally punishable offence.
1974
1 February
Abraham Tiro, a leader of the South African Students’ Organization, who after his expulsion from Turfloop University in 1972 had fled the country in September 1973, is killed by a parcel bomb near Gaborone, Botswana.
1974
1 February
The assassination of Onkgopotse Abram Tiro occurs. A Bureau of State Security (BOSS) hit squad, also known as the Z-Squad, is responsible for sending him a parcel bomb. As a result, Black students boycott lectures and their institutions are forced to shut down. Click here to read a speech which was delivered at a commemoration of the life of Onkgopotse Abram Tiro.
1974
4 February
The Prime Minister announces the holding of early elections. The National Party bases its election campaign on its record in office over the previous twenty-six years and on the need for a strong government.
1974
8 February
The Prime Minister warns that the government will not hesitate to intervene, should campaigns by City Councils - led by Johannesburg - to eliminate petty apartheid measures cause friction, or disturb the peace.
The Minister of Justice, P.C. Pelser discloses in Parliament that during 1973 a total of sixty-seven people were banned by the government for political reasons. Of these sixteen were prosecuted and eleven convicted for not complying with their restriction orders.
1974
9 February
The Publications and Entertainments Bill placed by the government before the House of Assembly incorporated the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry chaired by Jimmy Kruger, Deputy Minister of the Interior. The most controversial section abolishes the existing right of appeal from the Publications Control Board decisions to the Supreme Court - regarded by the opposition United Party as a damaging blow to the rule of law.
1974
18 February
The Lebanese government decides to break off diplomatic relations with South Africa.
1974
23 February
The Prime Minister condemns, in the strongest terms, a gift of $450,000 announced by the World Council of Churches (WCC) to Southern African liberation movements.
1974
March
Harri Singh goes on a trip to Europe to raise funds for the Black People's Convention (BPC) without any success.
1974
6 March
The British Parliamentary Report on Black Labour Conditions indicate that sixty-three of 141 British companies investigated have been paying African workers below the relevant poverty line. Three main recommendations are made the British government should initiate a new code of practice for British finns operating in South Africa; British companies should pay African workers not less than the minimum effective level and should encourage the lawful development of collective bargaining.
What is officially described as the first meeting of its kind, the Prime Minister holds a one-day conference with the black ‘homeland’ leaders to discuss mainly economic and urbanization questions.
1974
14 March
Chief Matanzima calls upon the South African government to grant full independence to the Transkei within five years. The Prime Minister states that he is prepared to negotiate.
1974
15 March
The creation of a community of separate and sovereign states is laid down as the official policy of the National Party in its election manifesto. Simultaneously it rejects absolutely a federal system.
Two Bills conferring wide new security powers on the government are passed by Parliament. The Affected Organizations Act is intended to prevent such organizations from receiving financial support from overseas sources to achieve political objectives in South Africa. The Riotous Assemblies Amendment Act empowers the authorities to prohibit any public or private gathering of more than one person, whether lawful or unlawful, if it is thought to pose a threat to law and order. Both Acts are strongly opposed by the United Party and the Progressive Party.
1974
15 March
Riotous Assemblies Amendment Act No 30:
Redefined ‘gathering’ and removed the reference to ‘public’. A gathering could comprise any number of persons.
Commenced: 15 March 1974
Sections 1-8 and 11 repealed by the Internal Security Act No 74 of 1982.
IN FORCE: Sections 9 and 10 (dealing with ss 16-18 of the Riotous Assemblies Act No 17 of 1956): CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE.
1974
15 March
Affected Organisations Act No 31:
Provided for the declaration of Affected Organisations. Such organisations could not solicit foreign funds.
Commenced: 15 March 1974
Repealed by s 7 of the Abolition of Restrictions on Free Political Activity Act No 206 of 1993.
1974
18 March
At the close of nominations for the 1974 elections a total of 334 candidates have been nominated for 171 seats: National Party 137, United Party 110, Herstigte Nasionale Party 46, Progressive Party 23, Democratic Party 7 and others 11.
The Minister of the Interior, Connie Mulder, announces that senior officials of the World Council of Churches (WCC) have been banned from South Africa. Entry will be refused to any member of the Council’s Executive or Central Committee.
1974
20 March
Responding to the British Labour government’s re-imposition of an embargo on arms sales to South Africa, John Vorster tells Britain that South Africa does not depend on British arms.
Signs agreement with Swaziland on the issue of notes and coin.
1974
25 March
South Africa:Signs amendment with Great Britain to the agreement on civil air services signed on 26 October 1945.
1974
29 March
Chief Minister Cedric Phatudi of Lebowa signs the ‘Seshego Declaration’ with the United Party Transvaal leader, Harry Schwarz and the United Party M.P. for Durban North aiming at peaceful change, a federal system –and a stake in society for blacks.
1974
April
The President of Paraguay, A. Stroessner, pays a five-day State visit to South Africa. Paraguay is given a $20m. loan for agricultural development. Agreements are signed on economic cooperation.
1974
2 April
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty on the extension of the Wheat Trade Convention, 1971.
1974
3 April
South Africa:Signs treaty with Paraguay on cultural exchanges and cooperation in science and technology.
1974
4 April
Following the aircrash death of over seventy miners, President Banda unilaterally suspends labour recruitment to South Africa. The move leads to protracted, but inconclusive negotiations for better conditions for migrant workers.
1974
8 April
The Prime Ministers of Lesotho and South Africa meet to clear up certain misunderstandings and reaffirm their belief and determination that both countries base their relations on the principle of good neighbourliness.
1974
24 April
The general elections result in the return of the National Party for the seventh consecutive time since 1948. While the United Party suffers a setback the Progressive Party increases its representation from one seat to six. The newly created Democratic Party has no success and the Herstigte Nasionale Party meets with resounding defeat.
1974
25 April
The World Council of Churches (WCC) calls for an end to multi-million pound investment in South Africa by international banks, to help bring about the collapse of the economy and the end of apartheid. The report, commissioned by the council, is released simultaneously in London, Geneva, Frankfurt and New York.
1974
26 April
The Minister of Defence, P.W. Botha, announces an expansion programme for the naval base at Simonstown.
1974
29 April
A number of Cabinet changes are announced by the Prime Minister.
1974
30 April
The claims of the government of Lebowa to more than one third of the total area of the Transvaal are set out in a report of the Select Committee of Inquiry into the Consolidation of Lebowa, tabled in the Lebowa Legislative Assembly by the Minister of the Interior, C. Ramusi.
The new government decides that the Senate will be dissolved by the Stale President and replaced by an enlarged Upper House at the end of May.
1974
6 May
The British Lions rugby team leave London to begin a controversial twenty-two match tour of South Africa and Rhodesia, ignoring threats by the Supreme Council for Sport in Africa (SCSA). Kenya, Zambia, Tanzania and Uganda sever all sporting links with Britain.
1974
17 May
After a two-hour discussion, the Transkei and South African governments agree to appoint a committee of experts to prepare the way for Transkei independence. An assurance is given by Chief Kaiser Matanzima that the Transkei will continue as a democratic multi-party system after its independence.
1974
21 May
The British Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, states in the House of Commons that the export license for a Westland Wasp helicopter to South Africa will be revoked.
1974
22 May
The South African Olympic and National Games Association (SAONGA) reports that all South Africa’s attempts to secure re-admission to the Olympic Games have failed, despite the tremendous strides made to comply with the demands of the IOC.
Signs an amendment to the agreement on civil uses of atomic energy with the United States.
1974
29 May
After joint talks with Ian Smith of Rhodesia, the Prime Minister B.J. Vorster commits South Africa to co-operative coexistence with, and non-interference in the internal affairs of a black-ruled Mozambique. A reciprocal pledge is forthcoming from FRELIMO’s Joachim Chissano on 17 September 1974.
1974
30 May
Following the elections, ten new senators are chosen and appointed by the Prime Minister, on the same day that the electoral colleges elect their forty-four Provincial Senators.
South Africa tells Britain that unless the Wasp helicopter is delivered the Simonstown Agreement on naval cooperation will have to be reviewed.
1974
3 June
Mr. Norman Middleton, president of the South African Soccer Federation, is refused a passport to attend a meeting of the International Football Federation (FINA) in Frankfurt on 11 June. He had refused to give an undertaking to the Minister of the Interior that he would do nothing to harm South African sport at the Frankfurt meeting. He said he considered the issue of a conditional passport to be 'śblackmail.'ť
1974
5 June
The Japanese government announces that South Africans will no longer be granted visas to enter Japan, to take part in sporting, cultural or educational activities. The ban comes into effect on 15 June 1974.
1974
15 June
Minister of Defence P.W. Botha, announces during a press visit to the Caprivi Strip that the Defence Force has taken over protection of the country’s northern borders as a full military operation, replacing the police in the area. Zambia protests over this change. It becomes clear that South Africa is recruiting, arming and training blacks for its army anti-terrorists units to repel a possible guerrilla onslaught on its northern border.
1974
20 June
South Africa:Signs amendment to multilateral agreement of 26 July 1967 for the application of safeguards (IAEA/SA/USA).
1974
21 June
The Minister of Finance announces a change in the South African exchange rate practice. Henceforward the Rand is tied strictly to the U.S. dollar.
1974
30 June
Cooperation with Iran in the fields of nuclear energy, petroleum, mining and trade is announced.
1974
July
The leader of the opposition party, Cohn Eghin, together with F. van Zyl Slabbert, undertakes a fact-finding tour of several African countries, including Botswana, Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia.
Removals of thousands of Africans are taking place near Middleburg in the Eastern Transvaal, and more are planned for the Eastern Cape Albany district.
1974
7 July
New Zealand imposes a blanket ban on virtually all visits by sports teams from South Africa.
1974
11 July
Strikes in Durban, common since January 1973, continue as white mechanics and engineers join the ranks of some 400 black and coloured workers.
1974
22 July
The Deputy Chairman of the Coloured Representative Council, JA. Rabie, calls for full citizenship for Coloured people, and urges a separate voters roll to elect sixty Coloured representatives to Parliament and the Provincial Councils.
1974
23 July
Following criticism of the press, particularly the English press, by the Prime Minister, a code of conduct is adopted by the National Press Union which is criticised by newspaper editors and certain academics.
1974
24 July
Dissatisfaction with the Coloured Persons Representative Council (CPRC) climaxes with a motion of no confidence in separate development. This is followed, on 29 July, by a walkout of the Federal Party after its third defeat in three days by the Labour Party, led by Sonny Leon.
1974
30 July
The Cabinet meets to discuss the crisis in the government policy towards the coloured community, following the capture of the Coloured Representative Council (CRC) by the anti-Apartheid Labour Party. The government has prorogued the Council until further notice.
1974
31 July
In a by-election held in Natal the United Party candidate wins a seat against the Democratic Party candidate. The ruling National Party did not contest the seat.
1974
31 July - 1 August
The South African Council of Churches adopts a resolution, at its national conference, that a just war cannot be fought in defence of a basically unjust society.
1974
1 August
Signs treaty with the Federal Republic of Germany relating to the visit of the German nuclear-powered vessel Otto Hahn.
It is officially announced that the police’s counter-insurgency potential will be increased by the establishment of a long-service volunteer unit to fight ‘terrorists’ in Rhodesia.
The government expands its defence potential by enrolling blacks for defence services. This policy has the support of ‘homeland’ leaders.
1974
12 August
The Commission of Inquiry into Certain Organizations submits its final report on NUSAS to Parliament. It finds that its leaders are traitors, guilty of providing terrorist groups and the like. The Commission reconunends that the application of students to NUSAS should end and that NUSAS should not be allowed to accept funds from overseas.
1974
14 August
A sharp increase in defence expenditure is announced. This follows the White Paper tabled on 10 April 1973, by the Minister of Defence. This demand was necessary for the strengthening of the defence force on the borders of the Caprivi Strip with Angola and Zambia.
1974
19 August
The Prime Minister meets for four hours in Cape Town with a delegation of politicians from the Coloured Representative Council (CRC), led by Sonny Leon. He informs them that the government cannot meet their demands.
1974
26 August
A Defence Bill is passed laying down penalties for any person or organization inciting anyone to avoid military service.
1974
1 September
KwaZulu: Labour Amendment Act No 11:
Commenced: 1 September 1975
1974
3 September
Joint routine exercises are held between the British Royal Navy and the South African Navy, under the Simonstown Agreement, and again from 14 October 1974.
1974
5 September
The Prime Minister again meets Coloured leaders in Cape Town in an attempt to resolve the crisis in the government’s Coloured policy.
1974
9 September
The U.K. Department of Trade confirms that all arms sales to South Africa are halted.
1974
10 September
The Minister of Defence states that South Africa will provide bases and communication facilities to the maritime forces of Western nations interested in the defence of the Cape route.
1974
11 September
The government is empowered to set up a Publications Board which would endeavour to present and uphold the Christian view of life.
1974
13 September
The Minister of Justice officially announces that NUSAS has been declared an ‘affected organization’ under the Affected Organizations Act and will not be allowed to retain any funds obtained from overseas.
1974
16 September
The United States decides to sell helicopters and reconnaissance aircraft to South Africa.
The Minister of Defence announces that South Africa will soon build its own tanks.
1974
19 September
The Prime Minister wishes the new Mozambique government well, but warns that South Africa will have to act in self-defence if Mozambique makes its territory available to guerrilla forces as a base for direct attacks against South Africa.
1974
21 September
Prime Minister Vorster made secret visit to Ivory Coast for talks with President Houphouet-Boigny.
1974
22 September - 23 September
The Prime Minister pays a secret visit to the Ivory Coast in pursuit of his policy of seeking dialogue with black African states.
1974
23 September
The United States government officially advises American companies operating in South Africa to negogiate with (unregistered) African trade unions.
1974
24 September
KwaZulu: Chiefs and Headmen Act No 8:
Commenced: 20 September 1974
1974
25 September
The New Zealand government announces that it terminates all tariff preferences previously granted to South Africa, as from 1 January 1974.
1974
25 September
"Viva Frelimo' Rallies are held by the Black People's Convention (BPC) and South African Students' Organisation (SASO) to celebrate the fall of the Portuguese government in Mozambique. The police subsequently suppress the rallies by means of bans and detentions. The "South African Students' Organisation (SASO) Nine", are charged under the Terrorism Act for encouraging disorder at the time of the Frelimo support rallies. Rather than contributing to the suppression of Black Consciousness Movement (BCM) ideology as the government hoped to achieve, the seventeen month long trial merely serves to disseminate the ideology even more widely, giving the accused a continuous public platform through the press.
1974
26 September
The United Nations General Assembly’s Political Committee decides to grant observer status to the ANC and the PAC. The South African delegation is subsequently withdrawn from the Political Committee.
1974
30 September
The United Nations General Assembly asks the Security Council to review the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa in the light of the constant violation by South Africa of the principles of the Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
1974
30 September
The General Assembly decided - by 98 votes to 23, with 14 abstentions - not to accept the credentials of the representatives of South Africa.
At the same meeting, the Assembly adopted - by 125 votes to 1, with 9 abstentions - a resolution calling upon the Security Council "to review the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa in the light of the constant violation by South Africa of the principles of the Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights." [Resolution 3207 (XXIX)]
1974
30 September
The General Assembly decided - by 98 votes to 23, with 14 abstentions - not to accept the credentials of the representatives of South Africa.
At the same meeting, the Assembly adopted - by 125 votes to 1, with 9 abstentions - a resolution calling upon the Security Council "to review the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa in the light of the constant violation by South Africa of the principles of the Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights." (resolution 3207 (XXIX).
1974
7 October
South Africa:Signs regional agreement on low frequency and medium frequency broadcasting in ITU regions 1 and 3.
1974
8 October
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development states that, in 1973, 475,387 foreign Africans were working in South Africa. Of these 36,480 were from Botswana, 148,856 from Lesotho. 139,714 from Malawi, 129,198 from Mozambique, 3,249 from Rhodesia, 10,032 from Swaziland and the remainder from other African territories.
1974
9 October
The Publications Act replaces the Publications Control Board with an entirely new censorship machine operative at three different levels. A fundamental change is the specific exclusion of appeal to the courts.
1974
12 October
Fourteen people, including leading members of the South African Students Organization (SASO) and the Black People’s Convention (BPC) are arrested and held under the Terrorism Act, following the pro-FRELIMO rally in Durban on 25 September 1974. Their arrest is the signal for widespread unrest at the University of the North, Turfloop.
1974
14 October
The Minister of Sport, Piet Koornhof, announces a relaxation of apartheid rules for sport and declares the government is working towards eliminating racial discrimination in the selection of contestants for international events.
1974
14 October
The Minister of Sport, Dr. Piet Koornhof, says in the House of Assembly that the Government's aim is to move away from discrimination in sport, disclosing that a 'śchampion of champions'ť soccer tournament would be held, probably in February: 'śWhite and non-White clubs could take part'ť. Further, he invites the major cricketing bodies for round table talks on their problems. He confirms that a Black boxer would meet a White boxer for the South African championship. Under specific questioning, he replied that the Coloured Proteas could play against the Rugby Springboks any time.
1974
15 October
A Second General Law Amendment Bill is introduced by the Minister of Justice, J.T. Kruger, involving the repeal of the ‘Masters and Servants’ laws governing the employment of labourers on farms, in mines, and of domestic workers. The Bill is passed late in October with the support of the opposition.
The United Nations Secretary-General accepts the credentials of the South African delegation led by ‘Pik Botha and including, for the first time, three black delegates, Chief Kaiser Matanzima (Transkei), Dr. M.B. Naidoo (South African Indian Council), and Dan Ulster (Coloured People’s Representative Council.
1974
18 October - 30 October
The Security Council considered the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa, and received a proposal to recommend to the General Assembly the immediate expulsion of South Africa from the United Nations in compliance with Article 6 of the Charter. The proposal received 10 votes in favour, but was not adopted because of the negative votes of three permanent members - France, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
1974
18 October - 30 October
The Security Council considered the relationship between the United Nations and South Africa, and received a proposal to recommend to the General Assembly the immediate expulsion of South Africa from the United Nations in compliance with Article 6 of the Charter. The proposal received 10 votes in favour, but was not adopted because of the negative votes of three permanent members - France, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
1974
23 October
The Prime Minister makes a major policy speech in the Senate, promising that South Africa will contribute its share to order, development and technical and monetary aid to African countries, particularly to close neighbours.
1974
24 October
In the United Nations Security Council ‘Pik’ Botha says that South Africa will do everything in its power to move away from discrimination based on race or colour.
1974
25 October
Cameroon, Kenya, Mauritania and Iraq call for the expulsion of South Africa from the United Nations. The proposition is vetoed by Britain, France and the United States. The vote on South Africa’s expulsion constitutes the first on the specific question of expelling a member country and also the first in which there is a triple veto.
1974
30 October
The main report of the Van Wyk de Vries Commission of Inquiry into Universities is tabled. It advances some positive recommendations, while in a minority report, G.R. Bozzoli, Principal of the University of the Witwatersrand, warns that certain chapters represent an attack on the English-language universities.
1974
1 November
A seventh black ‘homeland’, Qwa-Qwa, becomes self-governing.
Signs multilateral treaty on safety of life at sea.
1974
1 November
QwaQwa proclaimed a self-governing territory.
1974
4 November
The Chamber of Mines secures the Rbodesian government’s approval for the recruitment of black labour from Rhodesia.
1974
5 November
In a major policy speech, the Prime Minister talks of peace with black Africa, and of close economic ties in Southern Africa. He asks for six months’ grace for South Africa, and requests political commentators to ‘give South Africa a chance’.
1974
6 November
At the National Party’s Cape Province Congress, four Cabinet Ministers call for changes and the removal of unnecessary irritating legislation.
The South African Indian Council ceases to be totally government-appointed when half of its thirty seats are filled by election.
1974
6 November
The executive committee of the International Football Federation (FIFA) rejects an Ethiopian proposal to expel South Africa. It decides that the matter can be dealt with only at the next congress, during the Olympic Games in Montreal, in 1976. South Africa remains suspended, meaning that foreign players, not teams, can still be imported to South Africa. FIFA decides to send a delegation to South Africa early in 1975 to investigate conditions.
1974
8 November
The Prime Minister’s major proposal for the Coloured people is the creation of a consultative cabinet with equal numbers of white ministers and Council representatives meeting under his chairmanship. This ‘new deal’ is rejected by leaders of the Coloured community, by the leader of the Labour Party and by the Opposition parties.
1974
12 November
At a request made by the Permanent Representative of Tanzania, representing the African Group of the United Nations, the South African Delegation is refused participation in the Session of the UN General Assembly.
1974
12 November
Asked for an interpretation of the decision not to accept the credentials of the South African delegation, the President of the General Assembly, Abdelaziz Bouteflika (Algeria) said that the consistency with which the Assembly had refused to accept the credentials of the South African delegation was tantamount to saying in explicit terms that the General Assembly refused to allow the South African delegation to participate in its work. The President' ruling was challenged and upheld by a vote of 91 to 22, with 19 abstentions.
1974
12 November
Asked for an interpretation of the decision not to accept the credentials of the South African delegation, the President of the General Assembly, Abdelaziz Bouteflika (Algeria) said that the consistency with which the Assembly had refused to accept the credentials of the South African delegation was tantamount to saying in explicit terms that the General Assembly refused to allow the South African delegation to participate in its work. The President' ruling was challenged and upheld by a vote of 91 to 22, with 19 abstentions.
1974
16 November
Six of the eight ‘homeland’ leaders meet United Party leaders and issue a statement supporting federation as the solution for South Africa’s race problem. All eight leaders question the Prime Minister’s offer of independence.
The Prime Minister tells black ‘homeland’ leaders that one-man-one-vote in a Parliament for whites and blacks will never come about. Black majority rule in the ‘homelands’ will prevail and the whites will govern South Africa. The six months grace period was not intended ‘to turn South Africa upside-down’.
1974
20 November
The Masters and Servants Act and sections of the Bantu Labour Act are repealed. The repealing Act, the Second General Laws Amendment Act, makes it an offence to cause hostility between sections of the population and prohibits the furnishing of information, without ministerial permission, about business matters in response to any order, direction or request emanating outside the Republic.
1974
20 November
Second General Law Amendment Act No 94
(as amended by Acts No 87 of 1977, No 99 of 1978, No 74 of 1982, No 110 of 1983, Nos 84 & 95 of 1986 and No 101 of 1987):
Repealed the Masters and Servants Acts (1856-1910). Section 1 of this Act prohibits any words or acts intended to cause feelings of hostility between different population groups of the Republic. Section 2 prohibits the furnishing of information about business carried on in or outside the Republic to any person outside the Republic without the permission of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Commenced: 20 November 1974.
1974
21 November
An agreement is signed in Blantyre by which South Africa undertakes to lend Malawi R19m. to build a railway line between Lilongwe, the capital, and the Zambian border.
1974
23 November
Thabo Mbeki marries Zanele Dlamini in London.
1974
27 November
In a by-election at Wonderboom (Pretoria) the National Party candidate retains the seat by 5,745 votes against 1,077 cast for the Herstigte Nasionale Party.
1974
5 December
A comprehensive monetary agreement is signed between South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.
1974
7 December
International Monetary Fund announces the termination of South Africa’s request of the 1969 arrangements for the sale of South African gold.
1974
13 December
South Africa:Signs an amendment to the trade agreement of 13 March 1967 with Malawi.
1974
16 December
The General Assembly, in resolution 3324 E (XXIX) recommended that "the South African regime should be totally excluded from participation in all international organisations and conferences under the auspices of the United Nations so long as it continues to practice apartheid and fails to abide by United Nations resolutions concerning Namibia and Southern Rhodesia."
1974
17 December
A three-day Black Renaissance Convention ended at St. Peter's Seminary, Hammanskraal. It was sponsored by the Christian Institute, the South African Council of Churches, the Roman Catholic Church, IDAMSA, ASSECA etc. It called for Black Solidarity.
In a declaration, it rejected the policy of separate development and all its institutions and all forms of racism.
1974
22 December
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, H. Muller, defines the government’s policy of ending discrimination inside South Africa and of detente in external relations.
1975 - 1976
Sisulu's son Zwelakhe joined Rand Daily Mail as cadet.
1975
The People’s Republic of Angola is born.
1975
The Black Women\'s Federation is formed. It draws heavily on the Women\'s Charter.
Lillian Ngoyi’s banning order is renewed for five years.
Ela Gandhi is banned.
Mamphela Ramphele founds Zanempilo Community Health Centre in Zinyoka, outside King William’s Town.
Lindiwe Sisulu is detained. After her release she joins MK and works underground. She undergoes military training and specializes in Intelligence.
The Women\'s Committee at Crossroads plays a central role in resisting threats of eviction and pass raids.
1975
In the Pretoria Supreme Court, South African Students' Organisation (SASO) and Black People's Convention (BPC) leaders accused of promoting anti-White' feelings, of encouraging racial hostility and preparing for violent revolution, are convicted under the Terrorism Act.
1975
Aged about 12, Robert McBride is taught martial arts by his father. This follows a beating Robert received by a much older boy, in a tough neighbourhood with many gangs. He becomes more aggressive and involved in literally hundreds of fights. Despite this, Robert never joined any gangs, largely because of the discipline of his parents.
Robert and a childhood friend Andre play rugby and do karate training together at a local gym opposite the police station. Their trainer is a Black man named Enoch Blood.
1975
Cape Town-based Hellenic (White) claim the Chevrolet Champion of Champions by defeating Kaizer Chiefs (5-2 on aggregate).
1975
Thabo Mbeki is appointed acting African national Congress representative in Swaziland.
Thabo Mbeki is appointed to the National Executive of the African National Congress.
Thabo Mbeki is appointed acting Chief representative of the African National Congress in Swaziland.
1975
January - February
A number of measures are taken at government, provincial and municipal level to liberalize the applications of apartheid rules. Attempts to organize sports on a multi-racial basis are, however, blocked by cabinet ministers.
1975
5 January
The British Foreign Minister, James Callaghan, arrives in Port Elizabeth for a three-hour meeting with Prime Minister Vorster. Talks focus on the Rhodesian situation and the possibilities for political settlement.
1975
16 January
Congressman Charles C. Diggs, Jr. disclosed that he had been refused a visa to visit South Africa.
1975
22 January
At a meeting between John Vorster and eight ‘homelands’ leaders, strong representations are made to the Prime Minister on the disabilities of Africans in urban areas. The meeting produces some concessions but falls short of African demands.
1975
23 January
At a meeting between the Prime Minister and a liaison committee of the Coloured Representative Council (CRC), important decisions include reaffirmation in principle of parity in salaries for Coloureds and Coloured representation on statutory bodies.
1975
30 January
Dr. Nicolaas Diederichs, Minister of Finance, is elected as the National Party’s candidate to succeed .1.1. Fouché as State President at the end of his term of office on 9 April 1975.
1975
31 January
New Cabinet appointments are announced: Senator Owen P.F. Horwood - Finance; 1. Chris Heunis - Economic Affairs; Si. Marais Steyn – Indian Affairs and Tourism. P.W. Botha, the Minister of Defence, becomes Leader of the Assembly.
1975
February
Differences over the role to be played by the Parliamentary Opposition lead to a spate of expulsions and defections from the United Party.
1975
10 February
It is confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Foreign Minister, Dr. H. Muller, visited Lusaka for talks with the foreign ministers of Tanzania, Zambia and Botswana and with leaders of the Rhodesian ANC.
1975
11 February
A Rhodesian government spokesman announces that elements of the South African police were withdrawing from certain forward positions on the Zambezi River, a move made after undertakings from the Zambian government about guerrilla infiltrations there.
A new Reform Party is founded.
A second report by the Commission of Inquiry, under the chairmanship of Justice Van Wyk de Vries, appointed in 1968 to investigate the activities of South Africa’s white universities and the University of South Africa (UNISA) is submitted to Parliament. The report, completed in 1972, recommends that the Minister of Education be empowered to declare any inter-university or student organization undesirable, if it is engaged in political activities. NUSAS is particularly targeted.
1975
11 February - 12 February
Prime Minister Vorster visits Liberia for talks with President Tolbert. It is confirmed that the government’s ‘homelands’ policy is explained and discussed.
1975
17 February
The Prime Minister confirms his visit to Liberia and describes the talks as long and fruitful.
1975
18 February
All activities of the South African Students’ Organization (SASO) are suspended until further notice. The announcement is made at the University of the North at Turfloop, Transvaal.
1975
21 February
Dr Diederichs receives the unanimous vote of the Electoral College, consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament, to become State President
1975
26 February
South Africa:Signs trade agreement with Taiwan.
1975
5 March
A sharp indictment of apartheid is published by the World Health Organization (WHO).
1975
8 March
The Commission for the Programme against Racism of the World Council 8 of Churches (WCC) calls for actions to discourage tourism and visits by churchmen, political figures and sportsmen to South Africa and condemns Prime Minister Vorster’s detente policy.
1975
10 March
All South African policemen in Rhodesia are being confined to camps. South Africa is slowly disengaging from the settlement situation in Rhodesia.
1975
11 March
The Liberian legislature expresses support for President Tolbert’s policy of contact with South Africa.
1975
16 March
Brain Fischer is released from prison, following widespread appeals on his behalf, on health grounds, by the United Nations Secretary-General, Dr Kurt Waldheim, by the British Labour Party and by liberal Members of Parliament, as well as by many prominent South Africans.
1975
17 March - 18 March
Meetings are held in Cape Town between Prime Ministers Vorster and Ian Smith, with discussions focussing on the détente policy and the future of Rhodesia.
1975
18 March
Herbert Chitepo, 52, ZANU leader, killed in Lusaka when his car blew up in an explosion.
1975
19 March
The second elections to the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council result in thirty-one of the Council’s forty elective seats being won by the anti-apartheid Labour Party, which now has an absolute majority in the Council. Its leader, Sonny Leon, states that his party’s minimum demand is full equality with whites - complete economic and political freedom.
On the day of the elections the Minister of Coloured Relations gives notice of a Bill enabling him to exercise the powers and functions of the Council in certain circumstances.
1975
19 March - 21 March
The first elections of twenty members of the Legislative Assembly take place in Qwaqwa.
1975
25 March
South Africa:Signs multilateral treaty for the modification and further extension of the Wheat Trade Convention.
1975
26 March
Senator Owen Horwood announces a 36% rise in proposed defence expenditure, the defence budget being raised to R948, 122,000. The White Paper following the Budget announces plans for an expansion and reorganization of the Defence Forces.
1975
27 March
The government’s final proposals for the consolidation of the ‘homelands’ are announced. The total number of separate homeland areas will be reduced from 113 to thirty-six.
Minister of Defence P.W. Botha, presents a White Paper outlining defence policy and justifying the increased expenditure which now accounts for one-fifth of the country’s revenue budget.
1975
7 April
The Prime Minister announces that a pilot plant for the manufacture of enriched uranium has gone into production. The overall production cost is expected to be between 25% and 35% lower than that of enrichment methods in other countries.
1975
8 April
The government registers a strong protest after a South African Airways plane is hit by bullets as it lands in Luanda, Angola. Until an investigation is completed, SAA will not use Luanda as a stopover.
1975
9 April
President Fouché ends his seven-year term of office.
1975
10 April
Chief Kaiser Matanzima announces that the government has agreed to assist the Transkei in setting up its own army. Training of recruits will begin within a few months.
1975
12 April
Atlas Corporation completes deliveries to the South African Air Force (SAAF) of a first series of Impala MK-2 jet fighters.
1975
14 April
Despite opposition, the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council Amendment Bill is approved.
1975
19 April
Dr. Nicholaas Diederichs, former Finance Minister, is inaugurated as South Africa’s third State President.
1975
20 April
The names of the nominated members of the Coloured Persons Representative Council are announced. They include four Labour Party members, giving that party a total of thirty-five of the Council’s sixty seats. It is accepted that Sonny Leon will be Chairman of the Council’s Executive Committee.
1975
24 April
Under an amendment to the Defence Act the definition of superior officer is changed with the effect that white and black members of the Defence Force will have equal status.
1975
25 April
The Foreign Minister announces that South Africa will begin recruiting blacks for its diplomatic service in the near future.
1975
29 April
Proclamation No 86:
Provided that the Legislative Assembly could, by petition, request the State President to remove a minister from office and order the appointment of another.
Commenced: 29 April 1975
1975
30 April
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) decides at its seventh Congress in Geneva to suspend South Africa from membership until it renounces racial discrimination.
1975
1 May
The Minister of Bantu Administration and Development announces that the government has decided on far-reaching concessions for urban Africans involving home ownership and trading rights.
1975
6 May
The government announces that its aim is to provide all black children with free and compulsory education as soon as possible.
1975
7 May
Prime Minister Vorster emphasizes the need for continuing his policy of increasing détente in Southern Africa.
1975
8 May
- Bram Fischer dies in prison.
1975
8 May
Former advocate Brain Fischer, sentenced to life imprisonment for communist activities, dies in Bloemfontein.
1975
8 May
Death of Bram Fischer. 2 Entries for same event. Spelling of name in 2nd entry is wrong. DONE!
1975
8 May
Bram Fischer\\\'s death. (SPELLING!)
He was transferred from prison to a hospital in Bloemfontein where he was nursed by his brother, Dr Paul Fischer. Only his closest relatives were allowed to visit him. DONE!
1975
14 May
Prime Minister Vorster gives the first official confirmation of his two-day meeting with President Houphouet-Boigny in the Ivory Coast on 22-23 September 1974. Discussions focussed on the improvement of relations between African states.
1975
18 May
It is disclosed that John Vorster has invited the Presidents of the Ivory Coast and Liberia to visit South Africa.
1975
20 May
The Foreign Minister, Dr. Muller, confirms that the government will continue to co-operate with Rhodesia, whatever solution is found to the political problems there and that South Africa will not apply economic sanctions.
1975
28 May
In its report submitted to Parliament, the Le Grange (formerly Schlebusch) Commission, declares that certain activities of the Christian Institute of Southern Africa are a danger to the State. The Commissions findings are rejected by the Institute, by other South African churchmen and by the South African Council of Churches (SACC).
1975
30 May
The Minister of Justice announces that the Christian Institute has been declared an affected organization under the Affected Organization’s Act of 1974.
1975
June - September
People arrested include lecturers at the Universities of Cape Town and Natal, leaders of NUSAS, an assistant to Dr. Beyers Naudé and the Afrikaans author Breyten Breytenbach. Most are detained under the Terrorism Act.
1975
2 June
Under an amendment to the Suppression of Communism Act, approved without objection, it ceases to be automatically an offence to quote banned persons after their restriction order has been withdrawn, or has lapsed.
1975
5 June
The Cape Supreme Court, sitting in Port Elizabeth, sets aside the 1973 election of Lennox Sebe and three other members of the Ciskei Legislative Assembly on the grounds of irregularities at the capital, Zwelitsha. Lennox Sebe is accordingly ineligible for the office of Chief Minister.
1975
6 June
A proclamation is published in the Government Gazette providing for the detention of offenders for up to three years in rehabilitation centres to be set up in the homelands’. The regulations are strongly attacked in the English press and controversy continues into July 1975.
1975
9 June
The final report of the Le Grange Commission, dealing with the University Christian Movement (UCM), defunct since 1972, is submitted to Parliament. The Commission finds that the UCM, as a multi-racial body, has engaged in dangerous activities aimed at propagating violent resolution
1975
12 June
The Minister of Indian Affairs announces that South African Indians will be free to move from one province to another without prior permission, with the exception of the Orange Free State.
1975
13 June
Robert Sobukwe, former leader of the banned Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC), although still under a banning order, is admitted to practice as an attorney in Kimberley.
1975
16 June
The British Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary, James Callaghan, announces in the House of Commons that the Simonstown Agreement with South Africa has been terminated. There will be no further joint exercises between the Royal and South African navies. The facilities will remain available to countries of the free world wishing to co-operate in the defence of the Cape Sea Route.
The Minister of Economic Affairs. J.C. Heunis, announces that the government has agreed to increase the education and industrial training of Africans in white areas.
1975
17 June
The British Minister of State for Defence says that the ending of the Simonstown Agreements means an end to all the military co-operation between Britain and South Africa associated with them. In South Africa P.W. Botha sees the ending of the agreements as a challenge and the government will continue to improve and develop Simonstown’s facilities.
1975
19 June
Lennox Sebe is appointed general and economic adviser to the Ciskei Cabinet.
Signs multilateral treaty on the civil liability for oil pollution damage.
1975
25 June
Mozambican Independence is obtained under the leadership of Frelimo.
1975
6 July
It is reported that Israel and South Africa are increasing their cooperation and contacts in the military sphere, and negotiating joint economic ventures, including the construction of a major new railway in Israel, and the building of a desalination plant in South Africa.
1975
23 July
The South African Council of Churches (SACC) warns the government that unless the country’s racial policies are reversed it will not be possible to achieve peace.
Signs multilateral treaty with GATT on the extension of the provisional accession of Colombia.
1975
25 July
Congresses of both the Progressive and the Reform parties, held simultaneously in Johannesburg, unanimously approve the merger of the two parties under the name of South African Progressive Reform Party (PRP). The new party’s leader is Cohn Eghin. It has eleven seats in the 171-member House of Assembly.
1975
1 August
An order has been issued withdrawing the remaining South African Police from Rhodesia.
1975
6 August
In a by-election in Caledon, Cape Province, the National Party makes substantial gains at the expense of the United Party.
1975
8 August
Signs single treaty on narcotic drugs, 1961, as amended by the Protocol of 25 March 1972.
1975
9 August
Moses Kotane is awarded the Isithwalandwe/Seaparankoe.
1975
9 August
French government has decided to supply no further continental (ground or air) armaments to South Africa. This political decision does not affect naval armaments or existing contracts.
1975
11 August
Decisions on the future~ constitution of the Transkei are agreed upon at a meeting of a Cabinet committee of the South African and Transkei governments, presided over by John Vorster in Pretoria.
1975
12 August
A statement issued simultaneously is Lusaka and Salisbury, gives details of proposals agreed to after two days of talks between John Vorster and Ian Smith, which could lead to a settlement of the Rhodesian constitutional problem.
1975
13 August - 18 August
During a visit to Paraguay by the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, four agreements on South African aid to Paraguay are signed in Asuncion.
1975
19 August - 29 August
A number of new arrests are made under the Terrorism Act.
1975
22 August
Prime Minister Vorster officially opens the Orange-Fish River Tunnel, believed to be the world’s longest continuous tunnel (c.50 mhes), constructed at a cost of 76,400,000 Pounds Sterling.
Signs treaty with Swaziland on the establishment of an office for the Swaziland government labour representative in South Africa.
1975
25 August
Meeting of Prime Minister Vorster and President Kaunda at Victoria Falls.
1975
11 September - 20 September
At the invitation of Dr. Connie Mulder, the Ivory Coast’s Minister of Information, M.L. Dona-Fologo, visits South Africa on a fact finding tour. It is described as the first visit to South Africa by a West African minister.
1975
12 September
The Coloured Persons Representative Council (CRC) adjourns without passing its budget and urges the government to meet its demands for Parliamentary representation and full rights as citizens.
Signs commercial agreement with Greece on air services.
1975
16 September
South Africa fails to return for the 30th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Its relations with the United Nations are said to be under review.
1975
19 September
While officially opening the Biennial Congress of the Coordinating Council of South African Trade Unions in Pretoria, the Minister of Labour announces government plans to establish black industrial committees which will have direct bargaining powers with employers.
1975
26 September
The Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) condemns the South African government’s plan for black works councils.
1975
30 September
Winnie Mandela is released from her banning order and house arrest.
1975
2 October
Chief Kaiser Matanzima announces in Umtata that the Transkei will become fully independent on 26 October 1976.
1975
5 October
Winnie Mandela ends thirteen years of enforced silence with a strong attack on the country’s Terrorism Act.
1975
20 October
The Prime Minister holds discussions on constitutional developments with the chairman and other members of the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council, and makes various proposals. These are rejected and an immediate referendum among white voters on the issue of full citizen rights for Coloured people is called for.
1975
27 October
South Africa:Signs an amendment to a customs union agreement of 11 September 1969 with Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland.
1975
4 November
Lennox Sebe again becomes Chief Minister of the Ciskei, having won a by-election on 24 October 1975.
1975
11 November
State President, Dr. N. Diederichs, summarily dismisses Sonny Leon as Executive Chairman of the Coloured people’s Representative Council (CPRC), following his refusal to sign a government-approved budget for the Coloured community and his total rejection of apartheid and its laws.
1975
12 November
Four other members of the Coloured Persons’ Representative Council resign. This is seen as the first step in the destruction of the CPRC.
1975
18 November
Signs multilateral treaty on the extension of the International Sugar Agreement, 1973.
1975
18 November
General Assembly adopted resolution 3411 C (XXX) proclaiming "that the United Nations and the international community have a special responsibility towards the oppressed people of South Africa and their liberation movements, and towards those imprisoned, restricted or exiled for their struggle against apartheid."
1975
19 November
Chief Lucas Mangope of the Bophuthatswana homeland, receives a mandate from his Democratic Party to begin negotiations for the independence of that territory.
1975
20 November
The Bophuthatswana Legislative Assembly concludes a two-day Special Session during which it formally votes to open negotiations with South Africa for independence.
1975
23 November
A newly formed extreme right-wing organization, the Afrikaner Resistance Movement, is being investigated by the authorities.
1975
26 November
The Afrikaans writer Breyten Breytenbach is sentenced in the Pretoria Supreme Court to nine years imprisonment for offences under the Terrorism Act. He has pleaded guilty to entering South Africa to start an organization, Atlas or Okhela, intended to be the white wing of the ANC.
1975
27 November
At a meeting in Durban, between S. Leon and several Indian and African leaders, a call is made for the formation of an alliance of black and brown people. It receives some support but is opposed by the Federal Party.
1975
5 December
KwaZulu: Public Services Act No 7:
Commenced: 5 December 1975
1975
12 December
The Christian Institute appeals to the Prime Minister, John Vorster, asking him to reconsider the withdrawal or confiscation of the passport of six of their leaders, including that of Dr. Beyers Naude.
1975
15 December
South Africa:Signs a visa agreement with Uruguay.
1975
16 December
The United Nations General Assembly approves a series of resolutions demanding sanctions against South Africa.
1975
18 December |
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