South Africa Declares State of Emergency to Curb Political Violence Ahead of Elections

Strategic Insights -

South African President Frederik de Klerk declared a state of emergency in the country's Natal province and KwaZulu homeland on March 31, aimed at curbing political violence and ensuring a free and fair election in April. The announcement was welcomed by the African National Congress, but Zulu nationalist leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi predicted it would provoke rather than stem violence. ANC President Nelson Mandela stated that the state of emergency was a last resort to protect South Africa's fledging democracy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The state of emergency was declared to curb political violence and ensure a free and fair election in April, specifically in the Natal province and KwaZulu homeland.
  • The power of arrest, search, and control of public meetings will be given to security forces to combat political violence.
  • The military will take control of the KwaZulu police force, often accused by the ANC of aiding Inkatha members.
  • At least 500 additional troops are expected to be deployed in Natal and KwaZulu at the weekend with more soldiers arriving in the region earlier next week.
  • The Business Day newspaper quoted analysts as saying up to 40 percent of the country's 8.5 million Zulus could take up arms to oppose the emergency regulations.
  • De Klerk said the state of emergency would not dislodge Buthelezi as chief minister of KwaZulu and would protect him against attempts to undermine his authority.
  • De Klerk hoped the state of emergency would create a stable situation for political leaders to find solutions to constitutional differences.
  • De Klerk, Buthelezi, ANC President Nelson Mandela, and Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini are scheduled to meet next week to seek a political solution to the crisis in Natal and KwaZulu.

Statistics:

  • Over 280 people have died in political violence in the region since March 1.
  • 8.5 million Zulus make up 40% of the population.
  • 500 additional troops are expected to be deployed in Natal and KwaZulu at the weekend.
  • More soldiers are arriving in the region earlier next week.

Sources:

  • Cable News Network (CNN)
  • Business Day newspaper
  • South African government statement by President Frederik de Klerk