UN General Assembly
1990

Apartheid is another long-standing problem, but there still appears to be hope for a solution. The release of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners, the unbanning of the African National Congress of South Africa (ANC) and other anti-apartheid groups, the partial lifting of the state of emergency, and the renunciation of the armed struggle by the ANC have been important developments in creating a climate conducive for negotiations. The dialogue that has been initiated between Nelson Mandela, as representative of the black majority in South Africa, and President De Klerk must continue to its logical conclusion, that is, the attainment of a one-man one-vote system in a free, democratic and non-racial South Africa and the end of apartheid. Until this objective is achieved, the international community should continue to maintain both pressure and sanctions on the South African regime. We are concerned, however, at the recent upsurge in violence between the blacks, in which inter-factional rivalry has led to the deaths of many. We are now heartened by the latest indications that Nelson Mandela and Chief Buthelezi will meet; this augurs well for black solidarity and will, we hope, prevent further bloodshed. We would urge President De Klerk, who is responsible for the maintenance of law and order in South Africa, to take appropriate actions, including actions to deal with questions relating to police partisanship and white-extremist involvement.