December 19 has been a day of notable significance in South Africa’s rich and multifaceted history.
Five historical events that happened on 19 December
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From the daring 1982 attack on the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station to the impactful political decisions made by President F.W. de Klerk in 1992, here are five historical events that took place in South Africa on this day.
1982: The ANC’s Attack on Koeberg Nuclear Power Station
On 19 December 1982, in a bold move against the apartheid regime, the ANC’s military wing, Umkhonto Wesizwe, targeted the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station in Cape Town.
This attack, executed just weeks before the facility was due to start operating, resulted in extensive damage. Remarkably, there were no casualties reported.
The attack underscored the ANC’s resistance to the apartheid system and highlighted the escalating tension in the country’s political landscape.
1953: The 41st Annual Conference of the African National Congress
The African National Congress (ANC), a once-pivotal force in the anti-apartheid movement, held its 41st annual conference on this day in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.
The gathering, attended by notable figures like Walter Sisulu, was instrumental in shaping the ANC’s strategies and policies. These meetings were critical in fortifying the ANC’s position as a leading voice against racial segregation and oppression in South Africa.
1942: The Death of General Dan Pienaar
General Dan Pienaar, a prominent figure in South African military history, lost his life in an aircraft crash into Lake Victoria at Kisumu, Kenya, while returning to South Africa.
At the time, his death was a recognised as a significant loss to the nation. In honour of his service, suburbs in Pretoria and Bloemfontein were named after him.
1988: Bisho Bombings in Ciskei
In a disturbing episode of violence, two explosions rocked Bisho, the capital of the then Ciskei, on 19 December 1988. The blasts, targeting a shopping centre and a garage, resulted in one injury and significant property damage.
This incident was indicative of the volatile political climate of the time, marked by frequent unrest and instability.
1992: President F.W. de Klerk’s Decisive Action Against SADF Officers
In a move reflecting the changing political ethos, President F.W. de Klerk, on this day in 1992, announced the suspension or forced retirement of 23 officers of the South African Defence Force.
This included two generals and four brigadiers, implicated in illegal or unauthorised activities and malpractice.
