Daniel Moynihan: “last week we witnessed an exhilarating event for those of us who have long hoped for change in South Africa. The fruits…”

“last week we witnessed an exhilarating event for those of us who have long hoped for change in South Africa. The fruits of years of struggle for an end to apartheid in South Africa have ripened as the country held its first multi-racial election. The votes of those oppressed by decades of racial segregation will propel South Africa into a new era of political participation and racial equality. Those who have tried to scuttle the elections through political manipulation, threats and violence have failed. The enthusiasm of the people of South Africa, the majority of whom have waited their whole lives for this opportunity, is unparalleled. Only a few years ago the possibility of holding these elections was remote. It is a testament to the bravery of those oppressed by apartheid and to the indomitable desire for freedom that after this long and difficult struggle those seeking fundamental liberties have prevailed. Despite rising international pressure and growing popular unrest, the government clung to the fetters of apartheid.”