This resource is hosted by the Nelson Mandela Foundation, but was compiled and authored by Padraig O’Malley. It is the product of almost two decades of research and includes analyses, chronologies, historical documents, and interviews from the apartheid and post-apartheid eras.

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May

MAY 1

FILE NAME : RT6MAY.R

To Dan the man who sends such funny TV messages – how are you – busy, busy – on this 6th day of May.

To Daniels and Marsha

1.. Thanks for all the files received today namely: FINRAND2, 3, 4 AND FR5.

2.. Re Miniconference:

(a). As you will see because our communications crossed some of the points you are raising have been partially answered in our memo of yesterday. To clarify hereunder are some points.

(i). Please note that despite section B dealing with objectives of the conference and locating the main context within which we derive these objectives, reference has been made to issues such as routing the party in the black working class, militant youth radical intellectuals, and at the same time ensuring the party does not overlook the need for special attention to mobilizing the unemployed, agricultural workers as well as a concrete programme of affirmative action re the role of women. The agenda itself does not make adequate place for some of these issues to be properly focused on. Even as it stands the agenda is quite long. If tomorrow’s meeting works out, Theo hopes to brief Kay and obtain an immediate input.

(ii). But in the meantime the question you raise representation of topic and contribution from the PB has been referred to in our footnote of yesterday. With regards to presentation of topics we have suggested a maximum of 20 minute opening presentation per topic (necessary not only for conciseness of clarity and thought but to give maximum space for contributions and debate from the floor) and we have asked for your suggestions as to who should be considered to make the presentations on each topic. With regard to the PB presentation, Theo will be raising the matter with Kay.

(iii). Re finance the PB recently allocated 10,000 pounds sterling for production of Umsebenzi etc. We are busy negotiating an exchange for this amount. In the meantime Umsebenzi is coming through on the line and it is IMPERATIVE that we go in for the maximum possible production and distribution. So far production costing at Jessies indicates that 100,000 copies would cost us about R27,000. At Doris’s arrangements were made for them to receive the current Umsebenzi and AC on disk (probably ready laid out in A4 format per page – which means printing on A3 paper. At the very latest when we come down before the miniconference should be bringing the material on disks using Ventura. Question: have you guys been looking at the question of local production at Lobby, costs and quantities you would require for that region. It is necessary that you do so immediately. It would be tragic if all our planning and talking does not reflect that we really grasp the mettle of real work. No offence intended and we fully appreciate that we are all stretched out. But side by side with the miniconference which is necessarily secret, the party has to impact itself on the masses immediately.

(iv). The above gives you a measure of how that 10,000 sterling is almost certainly going to be absorbed in the production of AC and Umsebenzi. And it raises as an urgent question how we are going to develop a proper distribution network as well as giving serious attention to some ways of self-financing and raising funds. We have been developing some ideas on this question but we will desist from going into all of these now.

(v). So you can see where we are from the point of view of financing the conference and at present there is no point in sending a message to Mikes as Kay is here and Pete is away from Mikes but the matter will be raised with Kay. In the meantime we cannot stop – we have some ANC funds and we will borrow from that to keep going. I think Phillip’s unit is sending somebody on Tuesday/Wednesday to collect a loan at Jessie’s so you should ask Phillip to give you a small advance from that (if Phillip protests tell him that we have had to guarantee the loan in order to enable the lender to agree. Guarantees are withdrawable.) But we will try to bring enough money to reimburse people for their fares etc.

(vi). Your request for Jack to be utilized – no problem. At the same time let me say that neither Joe nor Theo have had a chance to look at your draft programme re MK work. But go ahead we will just have to take any modifications in our stride. The important thing is extreme secrecy and avoiding casualties at all costs. Any exposure could put our negotiating comrades under premature and unnecessary pressure. We are waiting to discuss with Joe your request re weapons for Umlazi but again we have to temper the real pressures that are there on the ground with the need to ensure the fullest discipline and control over how that weaponry is used. In the early days of this mission we lost a very promising member of the MC because hardly had he been drawn into MC he got involved in an independent elimination operation leaving us saddled with the problem of saving him and others from arrest.

(vii). Your arrangements/suggestions/codenames, etc. for arrivals noted. Please note these in the context of arrangements already made at Doris’s which cannot be altered now. Re Jessie and Eastern Cape – we will accommodate your suggestions. As for precise flights etc it is not possible to say at this stage whether they will be adhered to. Your suggestions may not suit us best but we will also have to balance this against the schedules of the delegates.

(viii). The information you have supplied re departure flights is very useful.

(ix). Re your list of hosts: we are not sure that we will have the space here to brief each delegate and work out his/her legend vis-à-vis the hosts that they are paired off with. Is it possible for you to handle this via comrades who do the pick up at the airport. But we are worried that the hosts you have listed are not all party members – what are they likely to say to their friends; will they reveal the presence of their guests to others during or after the stay.

(x). Thanks re Saponet numbers will also try them from here.

(xi). Your comments and response to the IPC document re building the underground noted. Will try to absorb them and see how best to handle if tomorrow’s meeting materializes; ditto the report from the DPC re organisation of the ANC. But in this regard how far had Jean and Marsha looked at it and have you two felt the need for any modifications?

(xii). Re JN and the miniconference – our message of yesterday should have clarified the matter.

That’s all for now. We have to prepare for tomorrow’s meetings as well as hopefully a meeting with Terror. The consultations we have been having amongst the 4 of us remain rather haphazard with regard to the preparations and you can prepare yourselves to censor. Theodore.

MAY 2

FILE NAME : RTC8MAY.DEC

Hello there Danny hope you get this real soon. How’s things at the seaside. Met Marsha today 7 May.

Have not collected your message but am about to but had to send this off urgently – hope your bleep is nearby.

1.. FROM THEO TO DANIELS

Shaheen should NOT come to Jessie tomorrow (8 May) to collect money for Phillip. Instead Phillip must come up Wednesday morning to collect and also to see Ntaba. But Phillip should be prepared as the Inkatha person is seeing JZ and will be handed to P. So P should come prepared for that task.

2.. FROM CARL TO DANIELS:

a). Managed to get only one load again this past weekend. But it went okay.

b). We are having a problem again this coming weekend because one of the chaps who expected to have a weekend off is on duty.

c). Please contact Trevor there and ask him to make arrangements for a person and a car for this weekend.

d). Trevor must contact me tomorrow (8 May) on my Johannesburg bleep (telephone: 789-3232 code 150630) and give me a number and time to phone him there. He should add one to each of the last three digits (not carry over as usual) e.g. 642-4498 becomes 642-4509. The times are our usual (sender adds; receiver subtracts) one hour.

3.. Will be sending more tomorrow (today) no doubt. Theo had the meeting – in short feels positive. But no doubt you will hear lots more. Take care.

MAY 4

STM5MAY.C

FROM DAN TO THEOPHILUS LARA : 900504

1.. Hereunder response from Marsh Dan to IPC document on Building ANC u/g. Feroz of Lusaka IPC has just returned on compassionate grounds (death of mother) and he has told Trevor that PMC’s response to IPC document on u/g was that since main tasks now were building MK, u/g work should fall under MK. He is obviously referring to this document. Do not know if this is final decision or still (most probably) to be decided by NEC. Will obtain more info. Not much time for Marsha to study this document. But he sticks to the views expressed by the meeting of the four of us at Jessy’s. He stresses that we must not make the mistake of leaving the building of our revolutionary armed forces in the hands of MK; that we must learn from the mistakes of attacks on Wimpy Bar target;; that there must be firm political control which can only be exercised on the ground by the u/g. I have had more time to consider the document so will include other points for you two to consider. We need to put in a well considered argument and will leave you two to finalise our contribution.

2.. Hopefully will be drawing up Miniconf progress report after meeting T and P later today. Marsha and I had short meeting with them last night. They should be providing us with arrangements for arrival of delegates; codes for phone and bleeper; accommodation; to that Theo can pass on instructions to all. Marsha is dealing with invites to Lobby people but TM is at Jessy’s this weekend. All should be finalized by Tuesday including Lobby CC delegate. We will have to begin paying special attention to the presentation of topic and contribution from PB. What has happened to their report/briefing on Cosatu meeting? What a sad state of affairs that up to now, as far as I’m aware, there has been no feedback to us! We urgently need this for our mini-meet. Please give us your views on Fri eve start with possible ending Sat night? Marsha is quite taken up with this possibility. The finances are a worry. Where will you get the fares for tickets? I have laid out R400 for rental but we are going to need several thousand more: rental of vehicles (two mini buses); rental of two cottages; securing reserve venue; food etc. T and P will be submitting budget estimate. My operational funds, by the way, have almost run out. Have had to give Shereen rental for the office, Lara’s rental (she has misplaced the money for this given by Carl or can’t remember whether he gave her the dough); a ludicrous R350 for a ludicrous desk; my guy’s rental and allowance etc. Don’t want to bore you with this but it is to emphasise need for miniconf funds.

3.. DPC is drawing up quite an extensive report and criticism on the setting up of regional ANC. Have been promising it for several days. It will be completed by Saturday. Phillip too will make input. I have your meeting with X in mind so will get the input to you this weekend. Have been having work sessions with DPC on setting up combat structures. Attempting to get them moving. We have drawn up a programme for this. Will be sending this to you as well. Probably by Monday. Awaiting your agreement on whether Jack can be utilized to help with the initial training of ZPC’s and some APC’s in order to achieve the necessary take off of the programme. This requires about 20 hours of his time. Once this is underway we will tackle his departments work. I have had a session with him. The main problem is that there’s been an accumulation of individual one-to-one contacts as though an intelligence ring was being created instead of dealing with this in a political way. Work with enemy forces requires establishing units with propaganda and agitation in mind – rather like the initial steps of trade union work. Because it is political organizational and educational albeit within enemy security forces his department needs strong support and assistance from the APC’s and basic units, and from the MDM, which is not the case at present. But this must be discussed at DP”C. that we proceed with greater urgency in setting up The situation demands combat and enemy forces structures. We have rated the combat structures as the top priority. (SATURDAY : Met DPC today. Have included the programme on building combat groups in this communication, plus their other reports. What the programme does not show is our decision to prioritise Umlazi following report we received that warlords are planning to attack the area on 13th May. We have decided:

(a). Crash course in use of firearms and tactics this week for Umlazi APC and combat unit;

(b). APC to take initiative in organizing under our guidance the youth who in the past have been responsible for spontaneous defence actions;

(c). DPC and Umlazi APC to contact popular organizations of the township to discuss the danger and counter-measures. Can Carl immediately inform us where and how we can obtain weapons to arm a minimum of six Umlazi trainees and a maximum of 12!).

4.. MINICONF – FRIDAY MEETING:

A.. COMMUNICATIONS

Delegates will be met at airport. Suggested flight schedule follows. But if they are delayed or problems occur they phone autopage 295123 and give message for bleep number 2102. They will use a code name for themselves (which follows); indicate that “X is waiting at reception”. And they wait in the seating area of the domestic arrivals section at airport. They won’t have long to wait since we will have a team covering the airport. Although most invitees are well known recognition problems should be few, in which case our reception team will hold up name board with delegates code name. If delegates have missed plane they should phone autopage number from safe phone in their city indicating new time of arrival.

CODE NAMES FOR ARRIVAL:

Chris Dlamini. -. Donald

Sydney. -. Shanon

Vali. -. Victor

Kathy. -. Karim

Jhb Delegate. -. John Jordan
“. -. James Jordan
“. -. Joan Jordan

Raymond. -. Richie

PE Delegate. -. Richards

Cheryl. -. Carol

Trevor. -. Teddy

CT Delegate. -. Cass Cross
“. -. Colin Cross

JZ. -. Jack

If JN comes allocate him a “J” codename. The same for Jeremy and PM. JN would not need to be a “Jordan” but JC/PM would because the comrades may not know them. If I’ve omitted anyone please use one of the delegate names or invent a name and inform us.

FLIGHT SCHEDULES:

FROM	FLIGHT NO	DEPARTURE	ARRIVAL	PASSENGERS
P E	602	09.05	10.15*	R & R
	618	16.40	17.50

CT	608	11.40	13.35*	CROSS & CROSS
	610	11.55	14.30*	CAROL & TEDDY
	616	14.30	16.25

JHB	511	12.00	13.00	JORDAN TRIO
	513	13.00	14.00*

	515	14.00	15.00*	CHRIS & SYD

	517	15.00	16.00*	KATHY & VALI
	521	16.00	17.00
	523	17.00	18.00

NOTE: The airport is very relaxed at present. But it is recommended that JZ slips down by road. If possible with Lara/Carl or special car. He will be put up by Phillip’s structure.

It is possible to fly from JHB to PMB at 7.00 arrival 8.20 with Magnum Air; and at 15.15 arriving 16.35 same airline.

Regarding above schedule we would like delegates to travel on the flights asterisked*. This avoids the rush hour when they are more likely to bump into people they know.

Recommended times of departures home on the Sunday:

PE. Flight 527 at 18.40 hrs

CT. Flights 625 and 627 at 18.00 and 18.40 respectively

JHB. Flights 526/522/524 at 17.55/18.00/19.00

HOSTS:

Chris and Kaizer with Jits of Lerp;

K and Vali with Jerry Coorvadia;

R & R with Paul Davids;

Cheryl and Trevor with Zac.

The hosts will pick them up and take them home. Others will be met by reception unit and placed with hosts. Please confirm names so that they can be appropriately paired off.

OTHER ARRANGEMENTS

Security, logistics, catering, recording, extra accommodation near NEST all being attended to. Report back meetings and in-loco inspections taking place this week. Final security arrangements to be approved by 11th so that security team gets briefed that weekend. Essential you respond to the list of names we’ve sent you by 9th. And give me feedback re expenses. Accommodation, petrol, food, vehicles etc should come to about R2,500 which I’ll borrow, beg, steal!

Trevor will be in Jessy on Tuesday. You could consult with him for update.

6.. SAPONET DURBAN

Have acquired countrywide list : Durban – 031-304-991

Cape Town – 021-462-1340

It appears number conversions took place end of 1989. Will be trying Dbn number and will let you know by bleep if it worked.

7.. Interested to know about Theo’s trip to Mother City and assessment of the TALKS ABOUT TALKS which appear to be extremely positive. See you before the minimeet!

COMMENTS ON “BUILDING THE ANC U/G” - IPC DOCUMENT:

1.. The document is positive about the role the u/g should play in the present situation. Its chief weakness, however, is a failure to argue why the u/g must continue to exist given the fact of the ANC’s unbanning. This failure leads its authors to elaborate MK tasks in such a manner that one would quite easily be lead to ask “why not simply set up clandestine MK structures falling directly under MHQ and the NEC?”

2.. Coming to the above conclusion is reinforced by the document’s failure to draw on an insurrectionary perspective to the question of the tgransfer or possible seizure of power. The document argues that “the tasks of the u/g ….. are dictated to by the strategic objective of the transfer of power ….. (which) entails building of peoples forces central to which is building MK…”

3.. What should be argued is:

(a). The ANCE must not fall into the trap of exposing its entire membership and structures since we cannot be sure of the outcome of the current restructuring of political relationships. The example of the fate of the Iranian Communist Party which was wiped out two years after its “legalisation” by the Ayatolla’s regime has many other historical parallels. We need to be cautious no matter how positive the initial and future contacts with the government may be. We can never be certain of FW’s true intentions until he “delivers the goods” so to speak. We also need to take into account the possibilities of a swing to the right by the National Party; an ousting of FW by the securocrats; a right wing take over or coup. The situation within white politics is volatile to say the least!

(b). Does the above mean that we must simply regard the continuation of the U/G as a “reserve force”; as some kind of “insurance” against the possibility of a reversal of the situation? No, not at all! We need to bear in mind that there is tremendous uncertainty about a smooth and simple negotiated solution. We dare not allow ourselves to believe that the path to the transfer of power to a democratically elected government of the people will proceed unhindered. Because of this we must build our revolutionary forces side by side with the negotiating process. These revolutionary forces cannot simply be legal ones. Neither can they simply be forces that apply pressure on the government so as to force it to make the necessary concessions demanded of our negotiating team. The legal ANC can and must mobilize our masses in order to bring maximum pressure on the government and white South Africa in general. But a great deal of work is going to have to be planned and organized in a clandestine way. This brings us to our strategic perspective. Where is the limit to the pressure of the masses which must be exerted against the existing power block? The only logical answer is in a nationwide uprising. Whilst this cannot be seen as a certainty it must be considered as a possibility should negotiations reach an impasse. It is vital that we have such a perspective. Not only has our strategy been moving in this direction but if we jettison it now we emasculate ourselves at the negotiating table. We must steadfastly avoid the situation where we feel that everything and all things are dependent on negotiations. A strategy which encompasses the uprising perspective means that we must have a strong U/G machinery which has an active rather than a passive “reserve” function.

(c). This insurrectionary perspective requires that the ANC has an authoritative, senior U/G leadership with the task of building our insurrectionary forces. These forces are:

i.. A political u/g network throughout the country that is intimately linked to the masses and the popular organizations;

ii.. Combat forces;

iii.. Security and intelligence network;

iv.. An organ working within the enemy forces;

v.. People’s self-defence units.

(d). It is only an U/G leadership structure that can build the range of forces indicated above. The legal ANC must have a hand in certain of these tasks but in the circumstances cannot handle them in toto. MHQ has a vital role in relation to some of these tasks, particularly those connected with the building of MK, but also cannot deal with the requirements in toto. For example the legal ANC must help to tackle the question of winning over enemy forces and popularizing the need to develop people’s self-defence militia but cannot possibly take on the full responsibility of these. Only the U/G can build the structures within the enemy forces and prepare the political agitators to carry out the semi-clandestine tasks of initiating and guiding the self-defence militia. MK personnel will be drawn into these tasks but under the supervision of the U/G. The building of a security and intelligence network can only be partially handled from a legal vantage point. The nature of these specializations is such that the tasks must be carried out in great secrecy. The U/G structures are consequently the necessary vehicle for the bulk of such activity. The U/G would be reporting to and serving the NAT directorate. We now turn to the building of our combat forces.

(e). The building of MK inside the country is arguably our most crucial task and certainly the most crucial given an insurrectionary perspective. But we need now to pause and consider the concept of “our People’s Army” in the new conditions. We should not simply regard MK as a “military arm” of our movement which we are hoping will be amalgamated with the SADF into some new regular force. Such an approach will lead us into a very vulnerable position. In this way MK will be contained and will not be able to fully serve the revolutionary process. It will be cut-off from the people. MK must be built and expanded into a Revolutionary Army of the People. This can be done by building:

(a). clandestine combat units of various types in town and countryside;

(b). legal and semi-legal self-defence units of the people ie a popular militia;

(c). winning over Bantustan troops and other black auxiliary forces and police. This Revolutionary Army (Umkhonto We Sizwe), together with the Underground forces and the popular masses organized and led by the ANC are the only guarantee that the aims of the struggle will be achieved.

(f). It is only possible to build such a Revolutionary Army, rooted in the people, through the Underground base. It is the Underground that links MK with the masses and oversees the construction of the people’s self-defence militia.

(g). Last, but by no means least, it is the Underground that ensures the ANC’s political leadership and control over the Revolutionary Army and Popular Militia. It is not possible for the legal ANC and its branches to handle this essential task on the ground.

MAY 4

STS27APR.MG

(1). Charles Ndaba trains the combat units. (2) Using Catherine M. (Getting going conflict in KZN)

FOR CHA CHA AND SUZANNA : 270490

1.. Many thanks for MANAGERS AND MORTGAGE which deciphered perfectly!!!

2.. Thanks for the FLEA SAGA. I need time to ruminate over all that data. At the moment having to teach the sisters how to operate ML is a major preoccupation and penance for not having been on hand to assist you two initially set the damn thing up. I do appreciate your attempts to untwist my knickers.

3.. You did not acknowledge receiving the MINICONFERENCE MEMO which was sent to you on a disk with Carl. Trust you have it?

4.. At meeting of DPC yesterday we discussed the slow progress on training the combat units. Only Francis, it emerges, handles this. Because of the urgency to get a move on we recommend that Jack assists as well as the others. There are four groups to train and others in the pipeline. Can Brenda also be utilised? The identity of the instructor to be concealed by disguise/flimsy balaclava. Please give your response. We have prioritized the training programme and meet tomorrow to elaborate the programme and briefings.

5.. Don’t remember if I’ve already informed you but the local Saponet number also just rings and rings here. Well I have to flee ….it’s a busy day.

MAY 5

FILE NAME : RJE8MAY.MP

Today? 8th May.

Dear Dandy Boy (sorry about the “_”!).

Thanks for all your lovely letters. Received in good order: one message (forgot to record name) dated Sun. 6th with letter for Esther; NEWORDER received 8th but dated 7th from ‘the Sisters’ (Hi sisters! I thought you produced a professional piece of work with your list of SAPONET numbers – much more proficient than your teacher’s tracts).

Sorry to disappoint you Danny old chap but I’m afraid your list of SAPONET numbers (as neat as it was) is useless to us. We go through SAPONET but we are not subscribers to the said service. We are part of the Infonet network – a much more grandiose and celebrated network than the local job. But not to worry. I have now obtained DEFINITIVE number for Durban. It is: 1(031) 305 2372 (all speeds)

This number definitely works with ML and I suggest you make this change on your Procomm dialing directory immediately. [In fact to prove it works I am going to send you this message by dialing the number myself – from here.] The numbers we have for Cape Town, Joburg and Durban are all the numbers there are for Infonet/ML. The SAPONET numbers are no good to us. Have you tried one? You will see!

Esther is overcome with the rate at which letters are going back and forth. When she came around over the weekend she thought I wanted to query her on her letter: she was quite taken aback when I presented her with a reply – already a day old. She was forced to respond on the spot, so here it is:

Dear Dan

Just a quick message to say I have a problem. Thomas has refused to pay Liverpool’s legal fees (approx 200). Says he knows nothing about it. He won’t be coming this way for a time. So I need to do something – what? I sent the request down with (Miles).

Have just received your latest euphoric letter. Just be careful! One of these days you will bump into Leonard Gering or Rachel or my parents!!! I am not going to ask them about a house yet. I have no money!!!

Esther

Dat’s all for now (but if there are any jobs going in that nick of the woods put in a good word for us. Fed up with this place!

MAY 5

FILE NAME : ST11MAY.R

From Dan to Theo and Carla: 110590

1.. Understand from Trevor that Lara will be coming down Sunday; Joe Tuesday and Suzanna on Thursday.

2.. AGENDA: Marsha and Dan have considered suggested agenda you sent us and approve. Suggest following allocation of tasks:

Chair:. Opens and welcomes

Carla:. Briefing on Security/legend

Ntaba:. PB Message

Chair:. Introductory remarks – characterizes conference along lines you have outlined – situates the meeting within context of world and national situation (very generally) – spells out theme of conference and what is expected of us;

Marsha:. Challenge facing Retailers

Lara:. Party of a New Type

Daniel:. Organising Legal Party towards 8th Congress

Peter M:. Propaganda

Sandy:. Finances

Kaizer:. Party and Alliances (with pre-considered input by CD, MV, Thami, K, CC, TM, George and special preparation by the females on organizing women);

Jeremy:. Path to Power – review in context of current developments

Resolutions Committee Report back

Chair:. Closes

Note: If you agree could you gear Kaizer to prepare his paper; if PM and JC are not coming then we will need to make necessary adjustments asap; could you also gear other participants to think about the above items well in advance.

Can Theo confirm Sunday arrival; in which case Marsha and Dan arrange meeting for Sunday night or Monday morning to consider agenda and other preparations. What is necessary is that whoever is presenting topic the Four collectively discuss and finalise the presentation. This also applies to Chair’s introduction.

3.. On Theo’s suggestion Marsha and Dan agree to invite Maggie G and our choice from the youth is Sam of DPC.

4.. Dan met T and P Thursday for progress report. All is going well. Unfortunately you have given no feedback on list of hosts and security pool. In view of time catching up on us have given them go-ahead to approach the hosts. Phillip must begin briefing security people this weekend so we will have to make the final choice today – Friday. We meet at noon for trip to NEST and to examine two other residences in nearby village; and to draw up security plan for the area.

Arrangements concerning airport reception; briefing en route to hosts; hosts; preparation of reading material and participant’s folders; transport; A Team and B Team; catering; recording; fallback venue – all under control. We are obviously going to need to devote the whole of next week to ensuring papers are prepared and arrangements on schedule. Will arrange meeting with T&P for Monday as well.

5.. Received R2,000 from Marsha.

6.. Met DPC today. Disappointed no response from Carl regarding request for material. We are all strongly committed to stepping up combat training and formation. Francis and David’s training of Umlazi cadres has enthused the cadres there. We should have a thorough discussion with DPC on these plans and the CW programme submitted to you. Pleased you agree that Jack should help with training. DPC have found a house going cheap in KwaMashu. Cost R10,000. Owner needs commitment next week. Can we agree to undertake this purchase? They put up strong motivation for needing such a premises. It is also going to be important to give them feedback on the reports they submitted on establishment of ANC.

7.. Understand Theo had fruitful meeting with Sipho, Kay and Co.

Looking forward to being briefed.

C U all next week.

Alt O! Alt O!

MAY 6

FILE NAME : RT6MAY.R

To Dan the man who sends such funny TV messages – how are you – busy, busy – on this 6th day of May.

To Daniels and Marsha

1.. Thanks for all the files received today namely: FINRAND2, 3, 4 AND FR5.

2.. Re Miniconference:

(a). As you will see because our communications crossed some of the points you are raising have been partially answered in our memo of yesterday. To clarify hereunder are some points.

(viii). The information you have supplied re departure flights is very useful.

(x). Thanks re Saponet numbers will also try them from here.

(xii). Re JN and the miniconference – our message of yesterday should have clarified the matter.

MAY 6

FILE NAME : SJE12MAY.PM

Dan the Man to John the Don : 120590

1.. Received your DANDY fine and dandy. The sisters are most pleased with your compliments only they did not receive any bleep from you on the 8th and we only discovered DANDY sitting there quietly waiting for us to pick him up yesterday. We have heavy traffic with Theo at Jessy’s as you may well imagine – last night the bugger bleeped me at 2.30 hrs – so usually work with the little Kermit everyday or at the least every other day but I was in the field on the 9th and 10th and sisters hadn’t checked. I’m sure you must have bleeped the lady but we do find the bleeding bleeper company a trifle slack and even slapdash at times. So it’s useful to make them check that it’s for Dr. Badar and that they have the message. OK!

2.. Thanks for correcting us about Saponet. I seem to have picked up that misconception from Theo who I think was simply referring to Saponet out of ignorance not realizing in fact we’re on Infonet. But we do seem to have a gremlin the works here because that new Durbs number you’ve given us he just don’t wanna work for us. When we ring we get a connection and the message “on line to ML Dbn” with the number but the cursor4 just stays put; screen remains blank; no beautiful # appears; just nothing goes man??? This occurs whether we dial 2400 or 1200 baud (see how I’m catching on with the lingo matey!)

3.. Was amused to hear how amazed Esther was at the speed of me last reply. What I’d like to do is just show her how amazing little Kermy is. If you could get her to your place this Monday 14th May and send a message by 19.00 hrs my time I will be waiting and will respond on the spot. So you would keep her there for 15 to 30 minutes after sending. If this is OK bleep me the sister with the message: “Tell Dr. Gene that Monday’s appointment is fixed” or “Tuesday” if need be. In the meantime here’s a short message for Esther and part for you:

4.. ESTHER : Many thanks my dear for your second nice letter. Don’t worry I am taking care but have the ever present fear of bumping into – no not the SB’s and by the way all the old spooks we knew are apparently deceased according to Boetie – but your folks, aunt Alice or the Arenstein’s. In fact I’m so haunted by the possibility of bumping into your family I keep mistaking various females for aunt Alice and jump and scurry. But my clip on nose and moustache is standing me in good stead. I believe that Jenny A who runs a legal practice is a real little bitch, loathed by our people, who is the chief attorney for Gatsha/Inkatha any any comrade who mentions Gatsha or his damned warlords gets an instant legal letter from her firm! It was reported to me yesterday – we have an excellent intelligence network here – that Helen was the subject of a discussion at the University. She was referred to as “my daughter” and the fact that she is expected here in June concerning possible employment by Mike Morris’ research set-up. Is there anything in this? Now Esther when I suggest that you ask your folks to look out for a suitable house for you I’m not implying you produce the dough at once but at least get the ball rolling. Begin checking out what you can get on your pension in the UK etc. etc. There’s talk that exiles will receive some funds from international agencies and maybe even Pretoria for resettlement so don’t sit on your hand my dear. Can you believe it but JS is in Durban today Saturday to brief the activists about the talks! What I wouldn’t do to be there – clip-on nose and moustache and all! Life is simply incredible at present: like the morning on the BBC’s Africa service JS’s was the mystery voiced – they use his “As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted 27 years ago…” Yesterday I was with some comrades and we did a detour to drive Phoenix-Inanda boundary – scene of African-Indian clashes and the burning down of the Gandhi trust settlement some time back. Looking down into the Inanda valley with its crowded shacks was like looking into the lower depths of human existence. Those sprawling, teeming slums are far worse than anything I’ve seen in Lusaka or Maputo. Harare townships for instance are infinitely better. Up over the brow of the hill on the Phoenix border were African women and children fetching water in all kinds of containers; just endless traffic carting the water down into the grey, smoke filled valley. Just imagine how difficult the living conditions are; and getting more problematic all the time. Little wonder that violence erupts; stoked on by Inkatha. Spare a thought for the Indian people living on the frontline. There are constant rumours about impending attacks by the warlords on UDF and the comrades or simply by blacks on the Indian community. Our movement has an uphill struggle to deal with this precarious situation and to build our own self-defence forces which I would argue are one of the key tasks facing us all over this beautiful land. My final point on another note, Esther dear, is do you realize that I qualify for the State’s indemnity as of now as a member of the NEC. I don’t know yet what this entails for me in my present circumstances but I will know quite soon because I am due to receive a personal briefing concerning the Groote Schuur Minute as its being referred to. Now, don’t worry I’m not planning to sneak into JS’s bedroom someone else is due to report to me.

Well on that note Johnny and Esther let me end by informing you that I am going to be watching the FA Cup Final this afternoon and as usual except when Arsenal feature I am going for the underdog. So get with it Palace!

Totsiens ous!

MAY 11

FILE NAME : ZT11MAY.R2

Longhorn calling to the flea – your absence was sorely missed last night to add a note of sanity. Will tell you when I see you – in a couple of days.

Today in case this is any news to you is the tenth of may.

To Marsha and Jean from Lara

1.. Thanks for your message re Trevor and sorting out re Phillip as you will know all okay. Suzanna not sure about whether your shoes were transmitted but will check otherwise bring them on weekend.

2.. Attached to this message you will find the following files: LIST (current list of invitees); and WPRPT which is a copy of report from Doris.

3.. We have a something that hopefully you can help with: although Theo has made notes from the full report of the meeting with TL he wanted a copy of the original, the print out of which is destroyed. At this stage it seems that Suzanna has wiped it out. It was the report you sent via Cleo when Kermit was disastrously ill over that weekend 23 April. Please can you see if possible to send us another copy.

4.. Thanks for Saponet numbers and would like Newcastle number and PE when you receive it.

5.. Although Theo and Suzanna are likely to be coming down by the end of the weekend it would be useful if you could put forward suggestions which we asked for a while back regarding chairing of meeting and who will lead the various sessions.

6.. Re AC – When Suzanna comes down will show you regarding print out. Meanwhile if you are wanting to try, do the following using Daniel’s machine: Switch on with no disk in drive A; Press F2 (Wordperfect Program). It will ask you to insert document disk. Put disk with AC in Drive A. Press SHIFT +F10. Type A: (filename) RETURN. Can’t remember what file was called. The file will appear on the screen (99 pages) so at least you can read it. To print: once file is on screen, press SHIFT + F7. A menu about printing will come up onto the screen. Select “Printer”. It will put a list of printers on the screen. Choose the printer that you are using. Once you have done this, press return. You will go back to the original printing menu. Press 1 (to print whole document) and all should be well. Otherwise don’t hassle will sort out when I get there. Could be problems with printer cable.

7.. Re Umsebenzi: We are bringing down on disk (hopefully also print outs and maybe plates). Are still awaiting final page plus 2 pages that did not come out.

8.. Miniconference:

(a). Heard from Mikes. Okay with suggestion of Sabrina. Will send word to Doris confirming they invite George and Sabrina.

(b). Marsha, Carl and Theo had discussion night before last. As you will see that despite the preamble and objectives, when it came to actual preparation of agenda no place was made on agenda for a focused discussion on party mobilization of women and the role of women in struggle. In our discussion it became clear that we have in our ranks at Lobby another candidate who we now think should be invited – namely Maggie (Charm’s wife) who is the education officer in SACTWU. We think that we should really look at the question not simply from the point of view of women in general but in terms of working women. Since the majority in SACTWU are women, Maggie with the assistance of Sandy and Nozizwe (they would get to know each other at the conference anyway) should get together and prepare a 20 minute introductory paper which tries to look as concretely as possible at the question of the mobilization of working women into the party and this would be presented by Maggie as introducing that discussion on the agenda. We hope you will agree and if you do, do not wait for our confirmation but simply go ahead with those arrangements and let us know. There should be some focus on not just mobilization in general, but on how we can go about implementing our decision on affirmative action to ensure that women comrades play an active role at every level of leadership of the party as well as how in the case of SACTWU the party can help the union to ensure that women play that active role at every level of leadership in SACTWU itself as well as how we can bring and develop women from the factory floor. Even Maggie doesn’t come from the factory floor.

(c). Re SAM: When we met each the first time Marsha did not raise this matter (that is when Carl was also present) but he did send a message next morning when he was on his way to airport. When I last discussed the matter, Carl was clearly opposed to his being invited. I have since seen him and also spoken to a member of the committee and both still feel that the committee was given the choice and exercised their rights and to include Sam would be a form of ignoring the democratic process within that committee and Kaiser their first choice is able to go. It is not that I am blindly opposed to inviting him and I want to assure you that when I raised the matter at the CC, I did not influence the CC at all in their choice of candidate. I am also convinced that the CC discussed the matter in a constructive and productive way and perhaps for the first time in a way that began to create the atmosphere of open discussion amongst themselves without any harsh words and ill feelings. It is only when they, with no intervention from me, decided unanimously on Kaiser that I requested them to also consider electing a second choice of delegate as a contingency measure. So in the face of your people’s wishes I have discussed the matter. I do not want to be the person who prevents his attendance; at the same time I feel we must caution ourselves, i.e. the 4 of us, that we too have an obligation by our practice not to create a self-perpetuating bureaucracy. It is not enough for us to be theoretically opposed and practically undermining our objectives. We have to learn to create the atmosphere throughout our structures of talking about each other frankly so that those discussions act as a mirror for each of us and enable us, in an unobtrusive way, to change. I feel that the democratic way is for him not to attend. How do you two respond to what is being said here?

(d). About your code names, travel arrangements, hosts, flight suggestions and pager messages there are some changes but these we can discuss with you when we arrive (e.g. Rachael will be traveling from Jessie).

(e). Rachael has agreed to attend both conferences and pre-conference session and will be arriving possibly together with Valli on the Friday morning from Jessie.

(f). Eastern Cape (Ruth henceforth) has appointed as its delegate – Mike Xego.

(g). Ndobe will be arriving on the Thursday evening directly from Ruth’s still to get concrete flight details.

(h). Isaac has made contact with Ndobe but he is out in King Wiliamstown and it may be necessary to make special arrangements about how we bring him, Ntaba, JC (who is likely to be in the country by that time) and PM. In the case of Isaac it may be risky for him to take the flight from PE. But thinking aloud as we write this it may be possible for him to fly from Umtata. In the case of the other 3 – Ntaba will have to manoeuvre with his hosts (General Basie Smith) so that he doesn’t draw their attention or suspicions. In the case of the other 2, the fact that they have come very recently into the country and if they are even seen arriving in Lobby there will be considerable speculation even in the MDM ranks and if we succeed in making them disappear there will be all sorts of skindering as to who has hidden them away and is monopolizing their attention. So again there will be need for special measures there to protect ourselves both from the enemy and the MDM ranks.

9.. The meeting (ILC + 2) took place yesterday and did take us a step forward and helped to clarify something of the direction in which we need to move. Daniel’s comments were extremely useful and we will send a report at the first opportunity but we have still to prepare it.

That’s all for now hope you are both okay – Theo and Suzanna.

MAY 16

FILE NAME : D-COMMS

Reports from Doris (May)

Section A: Re ANC

b). Sabata/Nora/Chris:

(iii). the following codes and communication arrangements were agreed upon for the immediate period and subject to the fact that Theo feels that it will be imperative that he plus possibly one other go to Doris at the beginning of June and spend at least two weeks there working with this grouping, linking up with other little pockets, setting up communications so that the region can be brought into a proper structured relationship with Vula. This applies also to the retailer side of work.

Names:

In the case of communications to this area and with this group:

Doris . =. Barbara

Jessie. =. Joanne

Lobby. = . Liz

Pagers:

Molly (Sabata) has a pager on the basis that she is working in the electronics field. The pager number is 45-8511 code 5053.

Nora – on the basis of being a journalist has a page: number 45-8511 code 5032.

Rules:

Initiator sets date and time by taking real data and adding 3. With regards to their providing us with a telephone number for any specific instance which we could then use to discuss with either of them on any specific date and time agreed upon, they will supply the number by adding 3 to the last three digits of the phone number. Always they will have to supply the number and we would phone from wherever we are.

Contact with Vula:

They can reach us at the following pagers:

1.. Jessie via Sarah and/or Theo’s pager.

2.. Lobby via Dr Daniels (Tel: 295123 code 2023) or Shireen’s pager (Tel 379227 code 866)

NB: These are temporary arrangements and particularly geared to giving us information as to when Nora leaves Doris and where he can be found when he arrives at Jessie’s/Lobby. They will give us advance notice and on arrival (in this case targeted for Lobby on or after 23 May) he would bleep the Lobby numbers giving a telephone number (using the above coding rules) and an extension number which in an uncoded form would be the room number of the hotel that he has booked into so that we can establish contact with him either by phone or calling on him personally. The arrangements are also geared to keeping some contact at this stage with the unit at Doris’s.

Courier:

They have a female teacher (MK trained legally settled and originally part of a 7 person group who trained together) who they have used as a courier to Pete and company and we have agreed that while things are being adjusted and where the need arises she could be used to reach us and take things from us around weekends. He code name is Paula.

They were expecting a courier possibly even this weekend and another a week or so later who would be bringing (a) funds for them and (b) Nora’s wigs etc. In the meantime in order to (a) tide them over financially (subject to their returning this money once their funds have arrived) and (b) to ensure that Nora can travel without finance being a constraint, Theo left them with R5,000-00.

4.. Molly and company also have a line via contact with Leonard whom they describe as a facilitator re the white sector.

MAY 17

FILE NAME : DANLET

Letter to Dan from Esther:

Hello Daniel

You seem to be having an exciting time. Please give my love to Mr and Mrs Boetie – tell them to get the monopoly board ready! What is Haraldene like? They live at No. 7, Max Spearman lives in the same street.

We had a terrible evening with Boozey and Jim, the yuppy values are taking over. Jim likened A’s experience in the West to a novelty. A doesn’t want to even see him again.

I am doing some exercise. I swim with Mrs Peanut on Friday’s, for the next two Fridays we are going to the gym and will be working out under supervision. Love to our mutual friend. Tell her Rags has made a great recovery.

Received the first card from you today – glad to hear you like the electronic chess. Peanut’s brother is always asking about you he seems really upset at your plight. At my unit meeting our RPC rep was furious that the RPC hadn’t been officially informed about your accident. He seemed to create a matzo-pudding with the Chief rep about it. I left the meeting exhausted!!

We are being briefed by the SG on Saturday about recent events.

Take care

Love Esther

MAY 19

FILE NAME : PROSPECT

How are things with you all. Sorry I didn’t say goodbye to S, hope her trip was okay. The 25 May rolls in.

FROM THEO TO JEAN/MARSHA/CARL

1.. Theo saw Kay yesterday. By that time he had already received verbal briefings from Kaiser,CD (Donald), MV (Vicky) separately about the miniconf. So Kay’s mind is already set on the launch rally taking place on the last weekend of July.

2.. As regards venue of the rally, he had been exchanging views with the above and they seemed to be fluctuating between Orlando Stadium and Soccer City is situated really between Soweto and Riverlea. However the real problem is which one has a capacity which we can be sure we will fill. The second problem that whoever is appointed as the organizing committee will really have to take into account timeously is that during the last rally a company like PUTCO withdrew its bus services using the excuse of fear of hi-jackings free-loading etc. And each of the MDM components will therefore be faced with problems of arranging transport for those that they are mobilizing. On the other hand it is possible e.g. in the case of Soccer City to actually pre-hire special trains to be laid on. And the tickets for those special trains could be sold by companies such as Computicket etc so that we recoup the major costs in hiring these special trains. It may even be possible to do the same in the case of Orlando Stadium but at this stage do not know enough to be sure that this is possible.

3.. Theo briefed Kay briefly about how we saw the next major step in consultations, report-back, etc. I am not sure whether Kay fully grasped the way in which we envisaged this (e.g. at one stage in the discussion he conceived of it as a 4-5 page report and I indicated that we saw it in a more detailed form). So I think that the report that you are supposed to be preparing must receive thorough attention from you and must be as complete as possible to that HQ can attend to it speedily and authorize us about the final form of that report as well as to ensure that they give us a few days head start to distribute these internally so that Party structures and fraternal organizations see that they are getting the report directly from the party rather than first from the press.

4.. With regards to the above report I would suggest that special care be taken in how we formulate and present (a) any reference to underground formations and even more important (b) the section on a re-look at Path to Power. With regards to the latter for example I do not think that Joe’s should be included as an appendix in the form in which it was delivered. This also applies to the recommendations of the conference on this aspect. Personally I would say we should not use formulations such as insurrection, revolutionary overthrow. This entire item on the agenda could have a brief 2-3 paragraph report which should bring out the fact that there is no incompatibility between the pursuit of a negotiated resolution (provided this is seen in a way that combines sustained mass pressure focusing on the question of State power, and actions at the table) and our pursuit of a strategy based on protracted all-round people’s struggle for the transfer of power. In the case of other items on the agenda the report can either carry the introductory papers as an appendix in their full form or in summarized form.

5.. I am also concerned that we should have the organizing committee’s report based on our post-conference discussions. That this should be done timeously. I hope you people will be on time on this because it is clear that as each of the participants meet Kay and discuss the matter with him, this would lead to in an unplanned way ad hoc ideas being generated which may or may not contribute to a systematic organizational approach. Kay stated that the CC will be meeting at Mikes around the 9th June and that questions of the rally, the public launch, etc will be decided at that meeting. I had to dissuade him from rushing to hold a press conference immediately after that meeting by impressing on him the need for structures on the ground to receive their first briefings not by the commercial media and press. All this persuades me that we have to rush to place our report in time so that at least the PB will have digested the matter before the CC meets.

6.. With regard to the above meeting Kay urged that Theo should combine his exiting and return with attending this CC meeting. At our discussions yesterday I did not resist this idea with sufficient arguments. On re-thinking it I am trying to get a meeting with Kay for tomorrow so as to persuade him that it would be counter-productive for me to attend as this will necessarily lead to the entire CC realizing that we have been at home and therefore undermine the sensitivity with which we have to build Vula. He also raised the question of attendance by Jean and we recognized that Jean’s exit needs a little bit of time to re-tailor his legend and that above all for continuity of work we should be targeting for Jean to exit immediately after Theo has returned via the legal route. At tomorrow’s meeting I will raise the question of Marsha attending the meeting of 9 June. So I think that he should already start preparing himself for that. His presence at the CC meeting will certainly enable the input from the ground to be made without the restrictions that are inevitable if Theo and/or Jean were to attend.

7.. Kay also stated that there was recognition at HQ that the work of organizing the ANC was proceeding in an unsatisfactory way. And accordingly it had been decided at the NEC to have a full meeting on the 20th June of the NEC and the ILC to be held inside the country to look at this question and in the meantime to take steps to gather reports from each of the regions s to how the ANC was being organized and what problems were being encountered. This looks like a positive step because there is certainly need to pause and look at the experiences to date and move forward in a planned way. But reflecting on our discussions I cannot help but feel concerned by a few odd remarks which didn’t really register properly on me while we were discussing matters. Firstly, Kay indicated that JZ seemed to be looking a little more realistically at the question of how to build the underground; that in this context the NEC had before it a proposal from the PMC that in each of the regions there should be one person in the ILC who was from MK; that he had commented that the presence of such a person was fraught with dangers in that it could compromise the overt structures. This remark coupled with his statement that our proposals re the organizing committee had not been raised; the fact that despite the meeting of the 8 where it was agreed that it would be a small body such as the 8 plus those in charge of the President’s Project plus whoever they agreed finally would constitute the Vula committee should be the only ones in the know about who and how we are proceeding to build the underground including the military side of work; the fact that looking at the timetables of Kay and Sipho, it became clear to me that the agreement of the 8 to meet early in June would not materialize; the fact that Tswete has already assumed his office and that X has begun to develop cold feet about shifting him to some other tasks – all these raise concern and I will try to discuss these matters with Kay tomorrow. But I must say that at this stage I too am beginning to develop some cold feet as to whether we as a movement will be able to attend to this matter in such a way that we are not blown sky high before we can even begin to start the work. I feel very strongly that if we in any way forewarn the enemy we will have disadvantaged ourselves irreparably.

8.. Returning to the question of the Party, there is an urgent need for us to get moving on certain detailed and practical aspects especially if some of the names we have talked about are to be realistically considered as possible candidates for the platform that is to be presented at the launch. Thus:

(a). I have urged that Kay should meet Cosatu officially once any of the Cosatu officials are considered for the CPILG (e.g. Donald and Kaiser). Ditto Mayekiso.

(b). On the question CR – we have to attend to a prior question namely his recruitment. In this regard I drew to Kay’s attention the fact that at a very confidential level I was aware that Ntaba and company are looking into the question as to whether he is working for the CIA. I do not know the basis of this suspicion but I felt that either Kay or Theo or both should confidentially discuss this matter with Ntaba so as to ascertain whether there is any substance to the suspicion. Please treat this matter as extremely confidential. However the point is that at this stage we cannot move on his recruitment. At the same time we have to recognize that if we were to launch before we recruit him (even if he is not presented on the platform) and the suspicions are unfounded we will have left in CR a measure of disgruntlement that we chose to ignore him.

(c). The question of the above names as well as the other names who are more directly involved in the ANC launch also needs to be discussed by Kay with Sipho and X. While we are clear about the impact their presentation on our platform would make vis-à-vis the masses of our people, as well as the psychological shock on the regime, etc. we have to take into account that we avoid an overkill both by over-emphasising our strength (and thereby raising deep concern in the regime and in the imperialist circles) as well as inevitably presenting ourselves as so entrenched within the ANC as to also raise concerns in various circles. So here again we are back to the question of how far we are prepared to go at this transitionary stage in publicly ourselves.

(d). Then there is the question of Rev Stofile. How do we attend to his recruitment? Is it possible for Marsha to attend to this matter within the next two weeks? Please advise. Gomomo and Mayekiso have already been recruited according to Kay.

(e). Kay informs me also that Timothy’s health is such that it would be impossible for him to be active.

(f). I discussed the question of Joe and raised Joe’s concerns. Kay is convinced that Joe should be in the list of the CPILG and he appeared to be sympathetic to the idea that Joe’s surfacing should be handled in the way I have suggested, namely that it would be unnecessary for him to exist and then surface; that once the general amnesty is in place covering not only those to come in from outside but also those who are already within the country, that then Joe should appear in that way.

(g). Which brings us to the question of the two youths. On the one hand it was difficult to see how we could by-pass Peter Mokaba and possibly even Rapu without causing divisions and problems. We did not have time to discuss this fully but I thought since Peter was recruited to the party years back, has not been incorporated into structures, has raised the question of his role directly with Kay, he is most certainly aware of the exact nature of his admissions (and Rapu’s admissions) which they made to Nat, are also aware that there is widespread knowledge on the ground of suspicion (emanating from Lusaka) that he is working for the enemy, that under these circumstances Kay should discuss the matter frankly with Peter stating that there are these suspicions which remain suspicions and that while these are still in the process of being cleared up it would be harmful to the cause of the Party if at this stage he was closely and publicly identified with the Party; that it was necessary therefore that he should accept that re the Party he should play a low profile role pending clarification of these issues. Kay was attracted to this idea but subsequently balked a bit but I don’t think he has dismissed it entirely from his mind. However he could not see how we could by-pass Peter and present some other youth leaders. At the same time he was sufficiently open-minded as to urge us to come with alternative possible names. Input chaps????

9.. The current issue of Umsebenzi will be out of the printers by next week. Depending on the numbers produced we will send you about 10,000 copies. The version that Little George and co have is incomplete as the current issue will also carry either a report of the General Sec. At the Soweto rally or the full text of his speech at that rally. So I suggest that you do not reproduce what you have there until we send you the final version of what we have here. I will also arrange for about 10,000 copies to be sent to W. Cape and 10,000 to E. Cape.

Dats it for now – greetings.

MAY 23

FILE NAME : RT1JUNE.RC2

I cannot think of any appropriate beginning except to say hello to you all 31 May.

Received today:

FOR CARL FROM PETE

(a). Our comrades report as follows: “The blind meeting conditions that were operational were those of weekend three for both vehicles. Both of us checked the following: For car one: Spa 8.00 hrs, 14.00 hrs Saturday; and 9.00 hrs Sunday. For car two: Spa 11.00 hrs Saturday and 12.00 hrs Sunday. There is no way we could have missed the person if he/she was there, in some cases we took a third comrade with us. There was also no room for confusion because all meetings were at the Spa on Julius Nyerere. We spent a minimum of 30 minutes on each location we checked.”

(b). For the above weekend, we intended to send the yeast – 3 no. So we should make a new arrangement. But give us a break of two weeks.

ALSO FROM PETE

(a). We are still awaiting info from Fatman’s on Daniel.

(b). Regarding the violence of the police and Inkatha, it seems to me, that we should respond among other ways also military. Our combat actions should however be politically calculated to divide the enemy and unite the people. We should avoid injuring civilians etc.

(c). Re Brazo: Cde Brazo is being sent home clandestinely by MHQ to Lobby. He is aware of project as you know. He is keen to link up with project and be integrated. He should be crossing in the first week of July. If OK with you, then we should help with the crossing. Please come back to us soon.

(d.1). We need input from you on how you see picture of the Vula external apparatus.

(d.2). As the NEC moves into the country, there will be no need for strategic input from outside. All that remains is physical servicing functions: hardware, perhaps infiltration and exfiltration. Even though we are presently a very small outfit, it is possible to reduce that to the minimum.

(d.3). John and Reynolds could refine the existing comms system, to their physical presence if not required in Cleo. They should go home to devise and set up the ANC above board comms system. Vula would, of course, have access to them.

FROM JESSIE TO LOBBY

1.. Received message BONUS of yesterday and incorporated comments before sending.

2.. Total of 44,000 copies of Umsebenzi have been printed. Will confirm tomorrow that 10,000 on their way to Lobby and let you know.

3.. Re Daniels travel plans: sent the info on to Mike. Were not clear from your message whether or not you intend to come through Jessie. If so we feel that with all the traffic of movement at the airport, you should reduce your time there to a minimum and preferably travel to Jessie by car and then only have to get through airport once. Please let us know.

4.. Re production of mini-conference report: we are thinking that an initial number of 150 will have to be reproduced, collated and distributed once we get go-ahead and addition after CC meeting (possibly from Marsha) before Kay returns for press conference. So this means we will need to line up a few photocopiers in Lobby preferably with collating facilities. Please let us have confirmation of this soonest.

5.. As you will see Pete has raised several matters.

(a). Re Brazo: I am not clear who they are referring to and from the way it is phrased there seems to have been a previous message. Pete does not clarify with what mandate MHQ is sending Brazo in, however he does say Brazo is clean to be integrated into Vula. You guys might know who he is and therefore are in a better position to decide whether we incorporate him. In principle, subject to specific cases, I am inclined to integrate. However, outside of being put in the picture I think you should decide and proceed to liaise with Pete re his entry etc. on the basis of your decision. I am leaving on Sunday so I think you should proceed as you decide and I will slot in with your decision.

(b). You will notice also that Pete raises the question of Vula as it exists on the outside. My impression is that they are overreading the question of how speedily the NEC will be locating itself inside. Nonetheless the points that they are raising are valid though you will recall how we have seen the same problem from the perspective that for the immediate future some key people will have to remain outside; the task of maintaining an adequate rear, the task of infiltration of cadres and material, and of attending to training of selected cadres we send out are very serious tasks and mistakes at that end could also lead to compromising the movement. So the type of infrastructure needs people of competence as well as some of authority. However in a message we sent early today prior to getting their message we raised similar problems regarding Vula outside particularly in the context that we have suggested Pete for the Vula Committee inside and we have raised the question of John’s being sent in. In doing so we asked them at HQ to begin looking and attending to their replacements outside. I think we should continue to exchange views on this and that you should do so with Pete and co as well. The important point is that by the 15th you must ensure that I am put in the picture with regards to these exchanges of views so that I am better equipped at the discussions of the 16th.

(c). Further to Pete’s suggestion re John and Reynolds I see merit to the person in the overt comms being under our direction and control but I have problems about Reynolds capacity to adjust to two levels of existence besides I am not even sure whether he shouldn’t be looking at ways of becoming more involved in the trade union side of work. I am putting the matter gently because I do not overlook Reynolds’ genius as an experimenter and innovator at the technical level – my problem however is that the direction we are looking at e.g. with regards to military work is not so much in technical innovation. Besides I think there are going to be severe constraints on Reynolds being able to do this area of work without being easily nailed by the enemy. With regards to John the case is different. But it all depends on how we want to provide cover for John as he is obviously marked by the enemy. As well as how the meeting of the 16th sees the linkage between the overt and the covert. But I do think that John will need a satisfactory cover and protection from the enemy. I don’t think the enemy will buy any idea that he is only going to be peripherally involved in the overt – they will certainly smell something if he tried that. I am merely making these comments to stimulate you into applying your mind to the question of John and Reynolds and the need for us to insist that we meet both at Cleo’s and at Mike’s not only people of authority but also movers who will attend to a difficult task with a sense of responsibility and attention to detail that John brought to his work at Cleo’s and that Pete brought to his work at Mike’s.

6.. Finally we attach to this file the file called COPY the accompanying letter we sent to Cleo/Mike with the draft report. It will be useful if Marsha is familiar with it and equips himself to expand, motivate and also deal with other aspects which we dealt with in the two meetings we had after the mini-conference.

Cheers for now Suzanna and Theo.

MAY 23

FILE NAME : RT1JUNE.RC2

So all the TV messages mean John’s back in town – welcome – how was the black hole and how is Pete?

Today is the last day of May

(A). Thanks for WOENSD1 message of yesterday.

(B). To Pete and Kay : Re travel plans for Daniels and Theo:

(a). We assume that Daniels has sent you his travel plans directly. In case for whatever reason or not he has informed us as follows: he “can be in Rome on 7th June to proceed to Fatman’s on 8th. Document No: 577353, Issued 7/7/82 in London”. So it is necessary that Fatman ensures that the visa under the name of Thurtle is available at Fatman’s embassy in Rome and that – Rome to Fatman’s is waiting for him.

(b). Pete’s suggestions re contact with Theo is noted. We will inform you later of times and dates when you can expect him to phone you. Only his flight from here to Mauritius has been confirmed as far and he leaves on Sunday morning. We are still trying for a reservation on the flight from Mauritius which will take him into Delhi on Wednesday morning. Asked John/Reynolds to make reservation for Theo from Delhi to Fatman’s in case Theo has to buy ticket on the spot if ticket is not waiting for him when he gets to Delhi. So we will be arranging dates and times when Theo phones you from Mauritius and Delhi if nothing else is confirmed before.

(c). Since the mini-conference the organizing committee of 4 has met on two occasions:

(i). We enclose herewith a draft of the report-back from the mini-conference. We suggest that you look at this draft and make suitable alterations. It is in the form in which we think you should authorize us to report back by distributing it as follows:

(1). to the party structures at Lobby, Jessy’s, Doris and Ruth.

(2). to the ANC and COSATU as members of the alliance with requests that each makes sufficient copies to distribute e.g. to their unions affiliated to COSATU, Cosatu-RECs, etc.

(3). to the UDF with a similar request.

(4). to the SACC and possibly if we can round up the addresses in time to other religious groupings/organizations.

(5). to the civic bodies (as many as we can reach and within the limits of our resources to reproduce it in a bound form).

Tentatively, once you give the approval, we can see ourselves making an initial run of 150 photocopied copies and possibly increasing that by a further 200. In this way we think that there will be uniformity in report backs; inside the party structures they can be supplemented by verbal report backs which must avoid any indication as to the date and venue of the conference and who were the other participants.

(ii). we are also suggesting that you should forward to us a report on the outcome of the CC meeting in a form which can immediately be incorporated into this bound volume and be placed in front of the report of the mini-conference so that at one go the CC deliberations will be reported on also.

(iii). As indicated previously we need the above amendment/approval of draft report and text re CC meeting, etc in our hands by the 11th (even with Marsha) so that we can have the documents produced and distributed before Kay comes this way and holds a press conference. Arrangements have been made to ensure that the absence of Theo and Daniels will not affect this process.

(iv). Arrangements were made for Daniels and company at Lobby to prepare a report back for you on various aspects with regards to the launch, etc that were looked into by the conference organizing committee. It seems that somehow this has been overlooked what with the ongoing work and the scrambling by Daniels and Theo to make arrangements for their exit and return. But the above suggestions were part of those deliberations.

(v). Another aspect that we looked into, as with everything else we discussed, we hope will be presented to you by Marsha. So what we will try to do here is briefly touch on aspects which we think will serve as reminders so as to ensure that the CC arrives at some finality on them. The first of these relates to conditions of membership. The recommendations are clearly set out in the conference records as well as the draft report back. Secondly we discussed the question of membership fees. In this regard we thought that two principal decisions need to be taken:

(a). that there should be an annual registration fee determined by occupational categories which we realize is a simplified and more effective way of having income-related and annual subscriptions; and

(b). there should be in addition monthly membership fees (again based on occupational categories). Marsha should be able to amplify but our approach to this question of having both registration fees and monthly subscriptions is to use registration process and the monthly collection of membership fees to provide us with an income base as well as serving as important instruments of politically organizing our membership and involving the membership in control and accountability.

(vi). We also looked at suggestions re the organizing committee for the Rally. These of course underwent changes when Theo discussed the matter with Kay and we have reported back to the organizing committee who saw no problems with the approach that was emerging.

(vii). We also had suggestions of the home-based individuals who should be considered to be part of the CPILG. I don’t have notes with me at present and I think that perhaps the best way out of this matter would be for the CC to look at the suggestions you have, add its own thinking and still leave the matter for finalization – by the PB – early in July so that we can put more thinking into the question. This is also because for example Theo has raised the question of CR with Ntaba and he has undertaken to make some written information available on a confidential basis. At the same time Ntaba was sensitive to the other aspects and my impression was that he was looking at the matter in a broad and positive sense. Similarly we need to take into account the sounding out we thought was necessary re the ANC, COSATU and possibly in some instances even other bodies e.g. UDF national. For all these and other reasons I am suggesting finalization should allow for a little more time. But all this is subject to how you at the CC decide.

(viii). With regards to the rally we have started certain soundings, e.g. how and when to apply for magistrates permission; which of the venues is likely to be available between Orlando Stadium and Soccer City without revealing that it is with regards to the launch rally that we want to know this availability; sounding out the NPL regarding their willingness to change their fixtures to accommodate the rally, etc. All these are tentative, do not reveal our plans for the launch because we felt that this information can only come once the CC has met at Mike’s and we wanted to avoid the plans becoming common knowledge before you have arrived at a decision and indicate the go-ahead. As I understood from the discussions with Kay, it is at the proposed press conference that we would reveal our plans.

(ix). I think it is necessary that the CC be sensitized as to the type of pressures that we are going to come under from the moment we make the public announcement and that these will multiply once the launch takes place and that there are common responses to questions we are likely to be confronted with. From the media there is going to be a sustained and intense effort to get individuals to make statements which the media will hope to exploit. This in the context that the growing membership of the ANC will contain elements who may begin to see the Party as an unwelcome ally. We need to recognize that this sort of public scrutiny and pilloring by the media is going to be there for some time and that the way we assert ourselves should be based on an ability to handle these issues in a way that asserts our case for socialism without leading us into traps.

(x). Since getting back from Lobby we have not had a chance to check on the progress re production of the current issue of Umsebenzi. The last time we looked at the matter 50,000-60,000 were supposed to have come from the printer by this past Tuesday; of these 10 thousand each were to be sent to Lobby, Doris and Ruth. And the remainder to be distributed by Jessie (some possibly to the OFS). (Just before sending this we were informed that 44,000 were delivered on Tuesday.)

Pete and Reynolds should also be pleased to know that although the bulk production was not done in time a number of copies were printed and distributed at the mini-conference.

(xi). You have the Vula reports about how we see this area of work moving ahead. In particular you are aware of our suggestion that Pete should be part of that committee on the ground. We also think that we should now plan for John being settled in the country. It is therefore necessary that you look at these two names concretely because it means that you have to find and develop who is to take John’s place at Cleo and who has to replace Pete at Mikes. Unless you look at these suggestions in this way the suggestions themselves will remain dead-letters. We would like some feedback as to how you see this aspect.

(xii). Thanks for Pete’s suggestion re Theo’s family visiting him at Fatman’s. I am not so keen on the idea because we may go through all that expense for the sake of a day or two. I feel we should try hard for Theo to pass through Cleo’s and if after all that we fail, then soon after meeting of the commitments of the 16th and the 20th you should enable Theo to visit the UK where he can see them in a more relaxed atmosphere.

That’s all for now, greetings from Suzanna and Theo.

MAY 24

RT1JUNE.RC2 IN BOOK No. 2

24.05.90

Do all the TV messages mean John’s back in town – welcome – how was the black hole and how is Pete.

Today is the last day of May

(A). Thanks for WOENSD1 message of yesterday.

(B). TO PETE AND KAY: Re travel plans for Daniels and Theo:

(a). We assume that Daniels has sent you his travel plans directly. In case for whatever reason not, he has informed us as ff: he “can be inRome on 7th June to proceed to Fatman’s on 8th. Document No. 577353, Issued 7/7/82 in London”.

So it is necessary that Fatman ensures that the visa under the name of Thurtle is available at Farman’s embassy in Rome and that – Rome to Fatman’s is waiting for him.

(b). Pete’s suggestions re contact with Theo noted. We will inform you later of times and dates when you can expect him to phone you. Only his flight from here to Mauritius has been confirmed so far and he leaves on Sunday morning. We are still trying for a reservation on the flight from Mauritius which will take him into Delhi on Wednesday morning. Asked John/Reynolds to make reservation for Theo from Delhi to Farman’s in case Theo has to buy ticket on the spot if ticket is not waiting for him when he gets to Delhi. So we will be arranging dates and times when Theo phones you from Mauritius and Delhi if nothing else is confirmed before.

(c). Since the mini-conference the organizing committee of 4 has met on two occasions:

i.. We enclose herewith a draft of the report-back from the miniconference. We suggest that you look at this draft and make suitable alterations. It is in the form in which we think you should authorise us to report back by distributing it as ff:

(1). to the party structures at Lobby, Jessy’s, Doris and Ruth.

(2). To the ANC and Cosatu as members of the alliance with requests that each makes sufficient copies to distribute eg to their unions affiliated to Cosatu, Cosatu-RECs, etc.

(3). To the UDF with a similar request.

(4). To the SACC and possibly if we can round up the addresses in time to other religious groupings/ organizations.

(5). To the civic bodies (as many as we can reach and within the limits of our resources to reproduce it in a bound form).

ii.. We are also suggesting that you should forward to us a report on the outcome of the CC meeting in a form which can immediately be incorporated into this bound volume and be placed in front of the report of the miniconference so that at one go the CC deliberations will be reported on also.

iii.. As indicated previously we need the above amendment/approval of draft report and text re CC meeting, etc in our hands by the 11th (even if you send it with Marsha) so that we can have the documents produced and distributed before Kay comes this way and holds a press conference. Arrangements have been made to ensure that the absence of Theo and Daniels will not affect this process.

iv.. Arrangements were made for Daniels and company at Lobby to prepare a report back for you on various aspects with regards to the launch, etc that were looked into by the conference organizing committee. It seems that somehow this has been overlooked what with the ongoing work and the scrambling by Daniels and Theo to make arrangements for their exit and return. But the above suggestions were part of those deliberations.

v.. Another aspect that we looked into, as with the everything else we discussed, we hope will be presented to you by Marsha. So what we will try to do here is briefly touch on aspects which we think will serve as reminders so as to ensure that the CC arrives at some finality on them. The first of these relates to conditions of membership. The recommendations are clearly set out in the conference records as well as the draft report back. Secondly we discussed the question of membership fees. In this regard we thought that two principal decisions need to be taken:

vi.. We also looked at suggestions re the organizing committee for the Rally. These of course underwent changes when Theo discussed the matter with Kay and we have reported back to the organizing committee who saw no problems with the approach that was emerging.

vii.. We also had suggestions of the home-based individuals who should be considered to be part of the CPILG. I don’t have notes with me at present and I think that perhaps the best way out of this matter would be for the CC to look at the suggestions you have, add its own thinking and still leave the matter for finalisation – by the PB – early in July so that we can put more thinking into the question. This is also because for example Theo has raised the question of CR with Ntaba and he has undertaken to make some written information available on a confidential basis. At the same time Ntaba was sensitive to the other aspects and my impression was that he was looking at the matter in a broad and positive sense. Similarly we need to take into account the sounding out we thought was necessary re the ANC, Cosatu and possibly in some instances even other bodies eg UDF national. For all these and other reasons I am suggesting finalisation should allow for a little more time. But all this is subject to how you at the CC decide.

viii.. With regards to the rally we have started certain soundings, eg how and when to apply for magistrates permission; which of the venues is likely to be available between Orlando Stadium and Soccer City without revealing that it is with regards to the launch rally that we want to know this availability; sounding out the NPL regarding their willingness to change their fixtures to accommodate the rally, etc. All these are tentative, do not reveal our plans for the launch because we felt that this information can only come once the CC has met at Mike’s and we wanted to avoid the plans becoming common knowledge before you have arrived at a decision and indicate the go-ahead. As I understood from the discussions with Kay, it is at the proposed press conference that we would reveal our plans.

ix.. I think it is necessary that the CC be sensitized as to the type of pressures that we are going to come under from the moment we make the public announcement and that these will multiply once the launch takes place and that there are common responses to questions we are likely to be confronted with. From the media there is going to be a sustained and intense effort to get individuals to make statements which the media will hope to exploit. This in the conte4xt that the growing membership of the ANC will contain elements who may begin to see the Party as an unwelcome ally. We need to recognize that this sort of public scrutiny and pilloring by the media is going to be there for some time and that the way we assert ourselves should be based on an ability to handle these issues in a way that asserts our case for socialism without leading us into traps.

x.. Since getting back from Lobby we have not had a chance to check on the progress re production of the current issue of Umsebenzi. The last time we looked at the matter 50,000 – 60,000 were supposed to have come from the printer by this past Tuesday; of these 10 thousand each were to be sent to Lobby, Doris and Ruth. And the remainder to be distributed by Jessie (some possibly to the OFS). (Just before sending this we were informed that 44,000 were delivered on Tuesday.)

PETE and REYNOLDS should also be pleased to know that although the bulk production was not done in time a number of copies were printed and distributed at the miniconference.

xi.. You have the Vula reports about how we see this area of work moving ahead. In particular you are aware of our suggestion that Pete should be part of that committee on the ground. We also think that we should now plan for John being settled in the country. It is therefore necessary that you look at these two names concretely because it means that you have to find and develop who is to take John’s place at Cleo and who has to replace Pete at Mikes. Unless you look at these suggestions in this way the suggestions themselves will remain dead-letters. We would like some feedback as to how you see this aspect.

xii.. Thanks for Pete’s suggestion re Theo’s family visiting him at Fatman’s. I am not so keen on the idea because we may go through all that expense for the sake of a day or two. I feel we should try hard for Theo to pass through Cleo’s and if after all that we fail, then soon after meeting of the commitments of the 16th and the 20th you should enable Theo to visit the UK where he can see them in a more relaxed atmosphere.

That’s all for now greetings from Suzanna and Theo.

MAY 25

FILE NAME : S4JUN

For John from Carl and Daniel

1.. Rashidi will be changing her bleep. She will send you the number on TV because I will be at Jessy for the rest of this week starting tomorrow 5/6. She will add one to each digit of the number she sends, so that what you will have to do is subtract one from each digit. E.g. 4608 will be 3597.

2.. I was informed by Jessy that you said you would explain yeast. Will that be when we receive it?

3.. Daniel may leave Lobby tomorrow so if there are any more messages for him relating to last minute arrangements could you communicate with him via Jessy and Lobby to be on the safe side.

3.. Daniel may need to contact you via TV if he gets stranded in Rome on Thursday. He will phone you at 700-5016.

4.. Just in case we worried you last Thursday the sister was trying to send a TC, because for some time we couldn’t get into ML, but found that both you and Reynold were personally answering TV numbers. Please explain procedure in future if we need to use TC.

For Pete Carl

1.. We had exactly the same time and meeting spot arrangements and the man was briefed on same. The person who actually did the briefing will check again what could have gone wrong. We will get to you later.

1.1. About yeast and next pick up, we will await word from you as to when we should pick up.

2.. Re Brazo, we have agreed on integration provided we are told what his mandate is from MHQ. His integration will only be acceptable if he is going to fall under the Vula command with no separate line of communication. We are gravely concerned, however, that a person for whom such a sensitive mission is planned should pose for newspapermen in photo sessions of conferences which obviously receive publicity in the country. We refer to the SADF/MK conference. A colour photograph of him with other appeared in yesterday’s (3/6) Sunday Star.

For Pete/Kay from Daniel/Carl

1.. We received your request re names for retailer management. Among the names were: Theo, Daniel, Marsha, Carl, Kaizer, Moses Mayekiso, Chis Dlamini, Cyril Ramaphosa (subject to recrt), Gomomomo, Cheryl Carolus, Harry Gwala, Govan Mbeki, Raymond Mhlaba, Kathy.

That’s all for now thanks.

MAY 25

PROSPECT IN BOOK No. 2

25.05.90

How are things with you all. Sorry didn’t say goodbye to S. Hope her trip was okay. The 25 May roles in.

FROM THEO TO JEAN MARSHA CARL

1.. Theo saw Kay yesterday. By that time he had already received verbal briefings from Kaiser, CD (Donald), MV (Vicky) separately about the miniconf. So Kay’s mind is already set on the launch rally raking place on the last weekend of July.

2.. As regards venue of the rally, he had been exchanging views with the above and they seemed to be fluctuating between Orlando Stadium and Soccer City. Personally I am open minded on this question because even Soccer City is situated really between Soweto and Riverlea. However the real problem is which one has a capacity which we can be sure we will fill. The second problem that whoever is appointed as the organising committee will really have to take into account timeously is that during the last rally a company like PUTCO withdrew its bus services using the excuse of fear of hi-jackings, free-loading etc. And each of the MDM components will therefore be faced with problems of arranging transport for those that they are mobilizing. On the other hand it is possible eg in the case of Soccer City to actually pre-hire special trains to be laid on. And the tickets for those special trains could be sold by companies such as Computicket etc so that we recoup the major costs in hiring these special trains. It may even be possible to do the same in the case of Orlando Stadium but at this stage do not know enough to be sure that this is possible.

3.. Theo briefed Kay briefly about how we saw the next major step in consultations, report-back, etc. I am not so sure whether Kay fully grasped the way in which we envisaged this (eg at one stage in the discussion he conceived of it as a 4-5 page report and I indicated that we saw it in a more detailed form). So I think that the report that you are supposed to be preparing must receive thorough attention from you and must be as complete as possible so that HQ can attend to it speedily and authorize us about the final form of that report as well as to ensure that they give us a few days head-start to distribute these internally so that Party structures and fraternal organizations see that they are getting the report directly from the Party rather than first from the press.

4.. With regards to the above report I would suggest that special care be taken in how we formulate and present

(a). any reference to underground formations and even more important

(b). the section on a re-look at Path to Power.

With regards to the latter for example I do not think that Joe’s should be included as an appendix in the form in which it was delivered. This also applies to the recommendations of the conference on this aspect. Personally I would say we should not use formulations such as insurrection, revolutionary overthrow. This entire item on the agenda could have a brief 2-3 paragraph report which should bring out the fact that there is no incompatibility between the pursuit of a negotiated resolution (provided this is seen in a way that combines sustained mass pressure focusing on the question of State power, and actions at the table) and our pursuit of a strategy based on protracted all-round people’s struggle for the transfer of power. In the case of other items on the agenda the report can either carry the introductory papers as an appendix in their full form or in summarized form.

6.. With regard to the above meeting Kay urged that Theo should combine his exiting and return with attending this CC meeting. At our discussions yesterday I did not resist this idea with sufficient arguments. On re-thinking it I am trying to get a meeting with Kay for tomorrow so as to persuade him that it would be counter-productive for met to attend as this will necessarily lead to the entire CC realizing that we have been at home and therefore undermine the sensitivity with which we have to build Vula. He also raised the question of attendance by Jean and we recognized that Jean’s exit needs a little bit of time to re-tailor his legend and that above all for continuity of work we should be targeting for Jean to exit immediately after Theo has returned via the legal route. At tomorrow’s meeting I will raise the question of Marsha attending the meeting of 9 June. So I think that he should already start preparing himself for that. His presence at the CC meeting will certainly enable the input from the ground to be made without the restrictions that are inevitable if Theo and/or Jean were to attend.

7.. Kay also stated that there was recognition at HQ that the work of organizing the ANC was proceeding in an unsatisfactory way. And accordingly it had been decided at the NEC to have a full meeting on the 20th June of the NEC and the ILC to be held inside the country to look at this question and in the meantime to take steps to gather reports from each of the regions as to how the ANC was being organized and what problems were being encountered. This looks like a positive step because there is certainly need to pause and look at the experiences to date and move forward in a planned way. But reflecting on our discussions I cannot help but feel concerned by a few odd remarks which didn’t really register properly on me while we were discussing matters. Firstly, Kay indicated that JZ seemed to be looking a little more realistically at the question of how to build the u/g; that in this context the NEC had before it a proposal from the PMC that in each of the regions there should be one person in the ILC who was from MK; that he had commented that the presence of such a person was fraught with dangers in that it could compromise the overt structures. This remark coupled with his statement that our proposals re the organizing committee had not been raised; the fact that despite the meeting of the 8 where it was agreed that it would be a small body such as the 8 plus those in charge of the President’s Project plus whoever they agreed finally would constitute the Vula committee should be the only ones in the know about who and how we are proceeding to build the u/g including the military side of work; the fact that looking at the timetables of Kay and Sipho, it became clear to me that the agreement of the 8 to meet early in June would not materialize; the fact that Tswete has already assumed his office and that X has begun to develop cold feet about shifting him to some other tasks – all these raise concern and I will try to discuss these matters with Kay tomorrow. But I must say that at this stage I too am beginning to develop some cold feet as to whether we as a movement will be able to attend to this matter in such a way that we are not blown sky high before we can even begin to start the work. I feel very strongly that if we in any way forewarn the enemy we will have disadvanced ourselves irreparably.

(a). I have urged that Kay should meet Cosatu officially once any of the Cosatu officials are considered for the CPILG (eg Donald and Kaiser). Ditto Mayekiso.

(b). On the question of CR – we have to attend to a prior question namely his recruitment. In this regard I drew to Kays attention the fact that at a very confidential level I was aware that Ntaba and company are looking into the question as to whether he is working for the CIA. I do not know the basis of this suspicion but I felt that either Kay or Theo or both should confidentially discuss this matter with Ntaba so as to ascertain whether there is any substance to the suspicion. Please treat this matter as extremely confidential. However the point is that at this stage we cannot move on his recruitment. At the same time we have to recognize that if we were to launch before we recruit him (even if he is not presented on the platform) and the suspicions are unfounded we will have left CR a measure of disgruntlement that we chose to ignore him.

(e). Kay informs me also that Timothy’s health is such that it would be impossible for him to be active.

(f). I discussed the question of Joe and raised Joe’s concerns. Kay is convinced that Joe should be in the list of the CPILG and he appeared to be sympathetic to the idea that Joe’s surfacing should be handled the way I have suggested, namely that it would be unnecessary for him to exist and then surface; that once the general amnesty is in place covering not only those to come in from outside but also those who are already within the country, that then Joe should appear in that way.

(g). Which bring us to the question of the two youths. On the one hand it was difficult to see how we could by-pass Peter Mokaba and possibly even Rapu without causing divisions and problems. We did not have time to discuss this fully but I thought since Peter was recruited to the Party years back, has not been incorporated into structures, has raised the question of his role directly with Kay, he is most certainly aware of the exact nature of his admissions (and Rapu’s admissions) which they made to Nat, are also aware that there is widespread knowledge on the ground of suspicion (emanating from Lusaka) that he is working for the enemy, that under these circumstances Kay should discuss the matter frankly with Peter stating that there are these suspicions which remain suspicions and that while these are still in the process of being cleared up it would be harmful to the cause of the Party if at this stage he was closely and publicly identified with the Party; that it was necessary therefore that he should accept that re the Party he should play a low-profile role pending clarification of these issues. Kay was attracted to this idea but subsequently balked a bit but I don’t think he has dismissed it entirely from his mind. However he could not see how we could by-pass Peter and present some other youth leaders. At the same time he was sufficiently open-minded as to urge us to come with alternative possible names. Input chaps?????

9.. The current issue of Umsebenzi will be out of the printers by next week. Depending on the numbers produced we will send you about 10,000 copies. The version that Little George and co have is incomplete as the current issue will also carry either a report of the General Sec at the Soweto rally or the full text of his speech at that rally. So I suggest that you do not reproduce what you have there until we send you the final version of what we have here. I will also arrange for about 10,000 to be sent to the W. Cape and 10,000 to E. Cape.

Dat’s it for now greetings.

The O’Malley Archives

May