Old Newscast: Nelson Mandela Is Released From Prison, 1990 (Part 2)

In this episode of Newscast, the hosts delve into the historical significance of Nelson Mandela's release from prison on February 11, 1990, after 27 years of incarceration. They highlight the initial hope this moment generated among South Africans of all backgrounds, juxtaposed with the immediate violence that followed as various factions vied for power.

Fergal Keane and Milton Nkosi, who covered the events of that time, recount the grim reality of escalating violence and massacres in South African townships, including the notorious Bui Patong incident. Both journalists share their feelings of despair at the loss of life amidst a striving for peace and democracy.

The conversation continues around how Mandela navigated these turbulent waters, emphasizing his disappointment with the lack of action from then-President F.W. de Klerk in addressing the violence instigated by the apartheid state. Keane discusses the complexities of negotiations for a new South Africa, mentioning figures like Cyril Ramaphosa, who played a key role in establishing an agreement that led to the first democratic elections in 1994.

Covering the first election, they describe witnessing people expressing profound emotions of liberation through their votes, contrasting the initial joys with the subsequent struggles of governing a diverse nation. Challenges such as corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and the lingering impacts of apartheid are discussed, as well as Mandela's legacy, which is honored and wrestled with within contemporary South African politics. The episode wraps up with reflections on how recent political shifts, including the ANC losing its majority, might influence the future of governance and accountability in South Africa.