LOOKING BACK

FROM THE SUNDAY TIMES 50 YEARS AGO

The new terrorist invasion of Rhodesia — the third wave since last August — throws into sharp focus the extent of the terrorist drive throughout Southern Africa, and the even greater need for vigilance and preparedness by South Africa. Two surveys, one by The Times of London and the other by the Washington publication Africa Report, disclose that the southward guerrilla thrust in Africa is gaining momentum every month. Already Portugal has thrown in 120,000 troops to save its three colonies. It is a costly colonial war. The guerrilla campaign has also caused Rhodesia to enlist South Africa’s help, and SAP units are fighting side by side with Rhodesian security forces. — March 24 1968

FROM THE SUNDAY TIMES 25 YEARS AGO

Facing mutiny in his own caucus over the defiant attitude of Transkei’s Bantu Holomisa, President De Klerk is this weekend considering a plan to effectively terminate the independence of three homelands. The plan, which entails taking over the administration of Transkei, Ciskei and Venda, will be put before the multiparty talks which begin this week. President De Klerk’s dilemma is how to meet demands within his own ranks for tougher action against Transkei — which the Goldstone commission found this week was being used as a base by Apla guerrillas accused of killing white civilians in South Africa — without wrecking negotiations. — March 28 1993