How the hunger strike of ’89 helped bring freedom
The strike by political prisoners at Diepkloof, which ended 35 years ago, marked a watershed in pushing the regime into talks
18 February 2024 - 00:00
On February 20 1989 I, together with Norman Ngwedzeni, the late Clifford Sedibe and few other fellow political activists, were released from detention without trial. Our release was part of an agreement reached by the clergy, led by the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and the apartheid regime, led by the late minister of law & order Adriaan Vlok, following the historic hunger strike in January/February 1989. Others were released a few days earlier and more were released after us. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.