Please note: In this document we have concentrated mainly on those structures
which are of direct relevance to the mandate of the TRC. There has been no
attempt to cover our diplomatic structures, or departments which fell under the
offices of the Secretary-General or the Treasurer-General over the years.
Most of the information contained in this appendix is drawn from memories. There
may be minor mistakes and omissions.
1. ANC STRUCTURES AND PERSONNEL: PRE - MOROGORO (1969)
Following the banning of the ANC in 1960, OR Tambo was sent out of the country
to represent the ANC abroad; Yusuf Dadoo was deployed to represent the SACP.
After the arrests of most members of MK's National High Command, some of those
who had evaded arrest left the country. Internal ANC (and SACP) leadership
ceased to exist.
Under the leadership of OR Tambo, offices were established in Dar-es-Salaam in
1964 to organise training of MK cadres. From 1964 onwards an office was
established in Lusaka; by 1965 the ANC's HQ was in Morogoro, Tanzania, and its
main military camp was at Kongwa.
In 1966 the leadership group moved to Morogoro, which became ANC HQ, with MK
becoming the ANC's military wing. In 1967, OR Tambo became Acting President,
after the death of Chief Albert Luthuli. The ANC's Secretary-General was Duma
Nokwe, Moses Kotane filled the post of Treasurer, and Joe Modise commanded MK.
The primary task before them was the reorganisation of the ANC's severely
disrupted structures.
1.1. The NEC in exile, 1963 - 1969
There were no elected members of the NEC until the 1985 Kabwe Conference. People
were co-opted to this structure as the leadership saw fit. During the 1960s, the
following people were NEC members:
Chair: OR Tambo
Treasurer: Moses Kotane
Secretary General: Duma Nokwe
Other members: Mzwai Piliso, Mendy Msimang, Moses Mabhida, Themba Mqota,
Mark Shope, JB Marks, Tennyson Makiwane, Ambrose Makiwane, Jimmy Hadebe, Joe
Matthews, Alfred Nzo, T.T. Nkobi, Johnny Makathini, Mzwai Piliso, Robert Resha,
Dan Tloome, and Joe Modise.
2. ANC STRUCTURES, 1969 - 1976
At the Morogoro Conference it was decided to form the Revolutionary Council
(RC), tasked with concentrating on the home front, developing internal
structures, creating publicity for the ANC, and waging armed struggle.
The NEC was reduced to eight members after the Morogoro Conference, and during
the period between 1969 - 1985, the NEC and RC (later the PMC) co-opted
additional members as seen fit by the leadership.
The RC expanded over the years by co-opting new members and developing
structures or portfolios, including Communications, Ordnance, Intelligence and
Security.
2.1. The NEC, 1969 - 1976
Acting President: OR Tambo
Treasurer: Moses Kotane, followed by JB Marks
Secretary-General: Duma Nokwe, succeeded by Alfred Nzo in 1969
Other members: John Motshabi, Mzwai Piliso, Moses Mabhida, Themba Mqota,
JB Marks, Tennyson Makiwane, Ambrose Makiwane, Jimmy Hadebe, Joe Matthews,
Alfred Nzo, T.T. Nkobi, Johnny Makhatini, Robert Resha, Dan Tloome, Joe Modise.
Members who were co-opted to the NEC during this period included: Thabo
Mbeki, Chris Hani, Joe Jele, Jacob Zuma, Joe Gqabi, John Nkadimeng, John
Gaetsewe, Robert Manci, Andrew Masondo, Henry Makgothi, Florence Moposho, Simon
Makana.
The Makiwane brothers and Themba Mqota were expelled in 1972.
2.2. The Revolutionary Council, 1969- 1976
Chair: OR Tambo
Deputy Chair: Yusuf Dadoo
Secretary: Joe Matthews (until 1970), followed by Moses Mabhida
Assistant Secretary: Simon Makana
Other members of the Revolutionary Council, 1969-1976: Joe Modise, Thabo
Mbeki, Jackie Sedibe, Duma Nokwe, Moses Kotane, Tennyson Makiwane, JB Marx,
Robert Resha, Ruth Mompati, John Motshabi, Joe Slovo, Andrew Masondo, Mzwai
Piliso, Reg September, Jacob Masondo, John Gaetsewe.
Military Operations fell under Joe Modise.
The Department of National Intelligence and Security (NAT) was first established
in April 1969 under the leadership of Moses Mabhida.
3. ANC STRUCTURES, 1976 - 1980
In 1976 a Central Operations Headquarters of MK was set up, and the process of
establishing MK training camps in Angola began.
3.1. The NEC, 1976 - 1980
President (as of 1969): OR Tambo
Treasurer: Thomas Nkobi
Secretary General: Alfred Nzo
Administrative secretary of the NEC: Joe Nhlanhla (in 1978)
Other members: Mzwai Piliso, Moses Mabhida, Joe Modise, Joe Jele, John Motshabi,
Andrew Masondo, Robert Manci, Joe Gqabi, Jacob Zuma, Steve Dlamini, John
Nkadimeng, Simon Makana, Florence Moposho, Gertrude Shope, Duma Nokwe, Thabo
Mbeki, Johnny Makathini, Simon Makana.
3.2. Office of the President
Special Operations was set up in 1979 to undertake high-profile acts of sabotage
on key economic installations. This structure reported directly to OR Tambo.
The first Special Operations Command consisted of Joe Slovo, Montso Mokgabudi
("Obadi"), and Aboobaker Ismail ("Rashid".)
3.3. The Revolutionary Council, 1976 - 1980
Chair: OR Tambo
Secretary: Moses Mabhida
Assistant Secretary: Simon Makana, followed by Job Tlhabane ( "Cassius
Make") in 1977
Other members: Mzwai Piliso, Moses Mabhida, Joe Modise, Joe Jele, John
Motshabi, Robert Manci, Steve Dlamini, Florence Moposho, Gertrude Shope, Duma
Nokwe, Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini, Duma Nokwe, Joe Slovo, Yusuf Dadoo, Jacob
Masondo, John Motshabi, Chris Hani, "Lennox" Tshali, Peter Dlamini,
Bogart Soze
The following members of the RC were co-opted to the structure after 1977:
Joe Gqabi, Mac Maharaj, Godfrey Pule, Jacob Zuma, John Nkadimeng,
"Peter" Tshikare, Sizakele Sigxashe, Andrew Masondo.
The following structures fell under the Revolutionary Council:
3.4. The Internal Political Reconstruction Committee, 1976 - 1980
This committee was charged with re-establishing the political underground and
organising ANC propaganda inside the country.
Chair: John Motshabi
Secretary: Mac Maharaj
Other members: Ray Simons, Reg September, Dan Tloome, John Gaetsewe, Ruth
Mompati.
3.5. MK Central Operations HQ, 1976 - 1980
The role of Central Operations HQ was purely to develop armed struggle
internally, and did not control all aspects of MK activities.
Central Operations HQ Personnel: Joe Modise, based in Lusaka, was
responsible for the Western Front (operations via Botswana). He was assisted by
Keith Mokoape and Snuki Zikalala.
Joe Slovo, based in Maputo, was responsible for the Eastern Front (operations
via Swaziland.) He was assisted by Sello Motau ("Paul Dikeledi") and
"Lennox" Tshali and Jacob Zuma.
Logistics and Ordnance (1976 - 1980): Jacob Masondo.
Communications: Jackie Sedibe
3.6. Lesotho, 1976 - 1980
Commanded by Chris Hani and Lambert Moloi. Lesotho reported directly to the RC.
It was in practice run as a separate area, with its own joint command consisting
of political, military and intelligence components.
3.7. Angola (1976 - 1980)
Angola was a special case; it was considered a military zone because of the war
in the country. Various structures, all directly reporting to the RC, were
established in Angola during this period.
The Regional Commander was Mzwai Piliso. Julius Shekeshe took over the post of
Regional Commander in 1979.
Personnel and Training (1976 - 1980): Headed by Mzwai Piliso. This post
entailed responsibility for all MK camps and arranging MK training abroad. He
was assisted by Andrew Masondo (National Commissar), Ronnie Kasrils (Regional
Commissar) and Julius Shekeshe (Regional Commander.)
Commisariat: Headed by Andrew Masondo as of 1976. Political instructors
included Mark Shope, Ronnie Kasrils, Wellington Madolwana ("Francis
Meli"), and Jack Simon. Ronnie Kasrils was Regional Political Commissar
between 1977/78 -1980
Logistics and Ordnance (Angola): Reid Ngake (1976 - 1980)
Security and Counter-Intelligence (Angola, 1976 - 1980): Godfrey Pule and
Sipho Dlamini were key figures in Angola intelligence structures. Mike Themba
("Mike Sandlana") was in charge of security in Angola from 1977 -
around 1984.
The Morris Seabelo Rehabilitation Centre (originally called Camp 32) was
established in late 1979.
3.8. MK Operations: Regional Structures, 1976 - 1980:
3.8.1. Eastern Front
Four "machineries", or military structures, operated from the Eastern
Front (Maputo via Swaziland):
Natal Urban:
Commanded by Mduduzi Guma, Lionel Hadebe, Krishna Rabilal, Cyril Raymonds
("Fear"), Zweli Nyanda, "Oscar", Sonny Singh (Bobby Pillay)
Natal Rural:
Commanded by "Pass Four" (Johannes Pungula), Henry Chiliza, Mandla
Msibi, Edwin Dlamini ("Chris")
Transvaal Urban:
The Transvaal command consisted of Selaelo Ramusi, Siphiwe Nyanda, Ntsie Manye
and Solly Shoke.
Eastern Transvaal Rural:
Commanded by Gilbert Ramano ("Robert Moema"), and then by Glory Sedibe
("September"), Julius Maliba ("Manchecker"), and Thabo
Gwamanda ("Thabo Mosquito"), Zaba Nkondo was commissar.
3.8.2. Western Front
Two machineries operated from the Western Front (Lusaka via Botswana). The
Botswana Command consisted of Snuki Zikalala and Keith Mokoape.
Transvaal Urban:
Commanded by Zakes Tolo and later Thabo Gwamanda ("Thabo Mosquito")
Western Transvaal Rural:
Commanded by Victor Modise
3.9. IPCs at regional level, 1976 - 1980
3.9.1. The Botswana IPC (1976 - 1980) was led by Henry Makgothi and Dan
Tloome. At various times, Jenny and Marius Schoon, Patrick Fitzgerald, Magirly
Sexwale, Zakes Tolo and "Negro" also served on this structure.
3.9.2. The Swaziland IPC (1976- 1980) was led by John Nkadimeng and
Judson Khuzwayo.
It had two sub-sectors:
Natal: led by Judson Khuzwayo, Ivan Pillay and T. Tryon
Transvaal: led by John Nkadimeng, Graham Morodi, Chief Mampuru and
Billy Whitehead ("Archie"), and "General".
3.9.3. The Maputo IPC (1976- 80) Indres Naidoo, Jacob Zuma, John
Nkadimeng, Sue Rabkin, Sonny Singh, John Nkadimeng (Swaziland to Maputo)
3.9.4 The Lesotho IPC (1976 - 1980) Led by Chris Hani and Lambert Moloi,
Linda Mti.
3.10. NAT (1976 - 1980)
Director: Simon Makana took over from Moses Mabhida.
Other members of the Directorate were Godfrey Pule, David Motsweni ("Willy
Williams"), "Peter" Tshikari, and "Ulysses" Modise.
3.11. London RC structure (1976 - 1980)
This was led by. Yusuf Dadoo with Aziz Pahad as Secretary. Other members were
Reg September, Solly Smith, Ronnie Kasrils, Jack Hodgson.
4. ANC STRUCTURES 1980 - 1983
In 1981, in line with the ANC's ongoing attempts to better co-ordinate political
and military activities, Senior Organs consisting of military and political
personnel were established in the Forward Areas.
4.1. The NEC, 1980 - 1983
President: OR Tambo
Treasurer: Thomas Nkobi
Secretary General: Alfred Nzo
National administrative secretary of the NEC: Joe Nhlanhla
Other members: Mzwai Piliso, Moses Mabhida, Joe Modise, Joe Jele, John
Motshabi, Andrew Masondo, Joe Nhlanhla, Robert Manci, Joe Gqabi, Jacob Zuma,
Steve Dlamini, John Nkadimeng, Simon Makana, Florence Moposho, Gertrude Shope,
Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini, Chris Hani.
4.2. Office of the President 1980 - 1983
Special Operations:
Commanded by Joe Slovo, Aboobaker Ismail, and "Chris" Nungu until his
death in 1982 in an ambush.
4.3. The Revolutionary Council, 1980 - 1983
Chair: OR Tambo
Secretary: Moses Mabhida
Assistant Secretary: Job Tlhabane ("Cassius Make")
Other members: Joe Slovo, Yusuf Dadoo, Joe Modise, Jacob Masondo, John
Motshabi, Joe Jele, Chris Hani, "Lennox" Tshali, "Peter"
Dlamini, Joe Gqabi, Mac Maharaj, Godfrey Pule, Jacob Zuma, John Nkadimeng,
"Peter" Tshikare, Sizakele Sigxashe, Andrew Masondo, Mzwai Piliso,
Robert Manci, Steve Dlamini, Simon Makana, Florence Moposho, Gertrude Shope,
Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini, Bogart Soze.
4.4. MK Central Operations HQ, 1980 - 1983
Commander Joe Modise, based in Lusaka, was responsible for the Western Front
(operations via Botswana). He was assisted by Keith Mokoape and Snuki Zikalala.
Joe Slovo, based in Maputo, was responsible for the Eastern Front (operations
via Swaziland.) He was assisted by Sello Motau ("Paul Dikeledi") and
Tshali (""Lennox" Tshali").
Communications: Jakie Sedibe
Logistics: Jacob "Mawiele" Masondo
4.5. The Department of Intelligence and Security (NAT), 1980 - 1983
The following appointments were made in 1981:
Director: Mzwai Piliso
Deputy Director and head of Intelligence: Joe Gqabi
Deputy head of Intelligence, and attached to the RC: "Peter" Tshikare
Head of Processing and Information: Simon Makana
Head of Security: Jan Mampane ("Reddy Mazimbu")
Deputy Head of Security: "Ulysses" Modise
After the assassination of Joe Gqabi in Zimbabwe "Peter" Tshikari took
over as head of Intelligence.
4.6. Senior Organs 1980 - 1983
Each S.O consisted of a joint political/ military committee and the following
substructures: a Political Command, a Military Command, and a NAT structure.
4.6.1. Maputo Senior Organ 1980 - 1983
Chair: John Nkadimeng
Secretary: Jacob Zuma
Other Members: Joe Slovo, R. Manci, Bogart Soze, "Lennox"
Tshali, "Peter" Tshikare , Ronnie Kasrils, Sello Motau
("PaulDikeledi"), Julius Maliba ("Manchecker")
4.6.1.1. Maputo SO: Political Committee
Chair: Jacob Zuma
Secretary: Ronnie Kasrils - Also Mandla Msibi, John Nkadimeng, Indres Naidoo,
Sue Rabkin.
The following structures resorted under the Maputo Political Committee(1980 -
1983)
Transvaal Urban:
Led by Graham Morodi ("Tati Mashego"), Oupa Mashinini, and
"Comrade Musa."
Transvaal Rural:
Led by John Nkadimeng, Chief Mampuru, and Billy Whitehead as secretary
Natal Urban:
Led by Judson Khuzwayo, with Ivan Pillay and Terence Tryon
Natal Rural:
Led by Shadrack Maphumulo and Jabulani Nxumalo ("Mzala")
4.6.1.2. Maputo SO: Military Command, 1980 - 1983
Chair : Joe Slovo
Secretary: Sello Motau ("Paul Dikeledi")
Members: Julius Maliba ("Manchecker"), Siphiwe Nyanda, Edwin Dlamini
("Chris")
The following machineries / military structures resorted beneath the Maputo SO
Military Command:
Transvaal Urban:
Commanded by Siphiwe Nyanda and Ntsie Manye
Eastern Transvaal Rural:
Commanded by Julius Maliba and Glory Sedibe ("September")
Natal Urban:
Commanded by Henry Chiliza and later Thami Zulu, Zweli Nyanda, Cyril Raymonds
("Fear").
Natal Rural:
Commanded by "Pass Four" Pungula, and Edwin Dlamini
("Chris")
4.6.2. Botswana Senior Organ, 1980 - 1983
Chair: Henry Makgothi, succeeded by Lambert Moloi
Leading figures in this SO during this period were Billy Masetlha, Keith
Mokoape, Dan Tloome, Marius and Jenny Schoon, Patrick Fitzgerald (the latter
three were forced to leave Botswana during this period), Wally Serote, Thabang
Makwetla, Hassan Ebrahim.
4.6.3. Lesotho 1980 - 1983
Until the coup, Chris Hani, Lambert Moloi, Linda Mti.
4.6.4. Angola, 1980 - 1983
For the first time a full formal Regional Command with established structures
was created 1980. The Regional Command was composed as follows between 1980 -
1989.
Regional Commander:
Simon Shekeshe, followed by Graham Morodi in around 1982; then Godfrey Ngwenya
who was injured in a UNITA ambush in around 1985, then Ali Makhosini.
Regional Chief-of-Staff:
Successively, Thami Zulu (Mzwakhe Ngwenya), Timothy Mokoena (Godfrey Ngwenya),
Raymond Monageng (Robert Mandita), Thabi Mofokeng (Steven Kobe), David Ngwezane
(Ben Senokoanyane)
Regional Commissar:
Successively, Mike Temba, Edwin Mabitse (Edward Mabitsela), Che O'Gara (January
Masilela), Herbert Malinga, Rufus Mbilini.
Regional Chief of Security:
Successively, Alfred Wana (Mdala), Captain Lentsoe (Moeketsi), Morris Seabelo
(Dantili), Zolile Zozi ("Dexter Mbona"), Caeser Kate (Mphakamisi
Ncumani).
Regional Chief of Personnel:
Successively, the late Joseph Vooki (Arios Molefe), Peter Seeiso (Phillip
Sebothoma), Tony Montori (Jeremiah M. Nyembe.)
Regional Chief of Logistics:
Successively, Theodore Mothobi, Reid Ngake, Albert Mabeleng.
Regional Chief of Transport:
Successively, Reid Ngake, Graham Morodi ("Dan Mashego"), Frans
Dibakwane
Regional Medical Officer:
Successively, Dr Peter Mfelang, Dr Sipho, Dr. "Hagar McBerry"
(Davidson Masuku.)
Regional Chief of Communications:
Solly Mokgatle
5. ANC STRUCTURES 1983 - 1985
The Senior Organs in the forward areas had not been particularly effective in
improving co-ordination between the political and military aspects of struggle.
In April 1983 a conference of all Front commanders and commissars was held in
Luanda to address the continuing problem of a lack of effective co-ordination
between the military and political aspects of struggle. It was felt there should
be joint planning, command and control in all operations; and the ANC had to
move towards building military structures inside the country, taking a
longer-term view and preparing the ground for peoples' war in order to sustain
military operations, rather than carrying out a string of one-off "pot
boiling" actions.
The NEC resolved to intensify its work both inside and outside the country.
External work was to be co-ordinated by a newly-created External Coordinating
Committee.
The Revolutionary Council was replaced by the Politico-Military Council (PMC),
which became the executive arm of the NEC in relation to all matters pertaining
to the conduct of the political and military struggle inside South Africa. The
PMC co-ordinated the activities of the Political HQ, Military HQ, and NAT, and
was supported in its activities by a small Secretariat. By 1983 a new Military
Headquarters (MHQ) had been established, bringing together and reorganising the
old general HQ along formal military lines.
The PMC met once a month and was tasked with the overall strategic planning for
internal ANC/MK work, and to assess the state of the nation. The executive
committee of the PMC, the Secretariat, met between full PMC meetings on a weekly
basis.
The Senior Organs were replaced by Regional Politico-Military Committees
(RPMCs), and were also given the authority and responsibility for making
operational decisions. The RPMCs were charged with co-ordinating political and
military activities in their areas of responsibility, and (where possible)
setting up Area PMCs inside the country. Area PMCs would be responsible for
providing local-level leadership on political and military matters, the
gathering of intelligence, and the screening of recruits.
5.1. The NEC 1983 - 1985
President: OR Tambo
Treasurer: Thomas Nkobi
Secretary General: Alfred Nzo
Administrative secretary of the NEC: Joe Nhlanhla.
Other members: Mzwai Piliso, Moses Mabhida, Joe Modise, Joe Jele, John
Motshabi, Andrew Masondo, Robert Manci, Joe Gqabi, Jacob Zuma, Steve Dlamini,
John Nkadimeng, Simon Makana, Gertrude Shope, Florence Moposho, Chris Hani,
Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini.
5.2. The External Co-ordinating Committee, 1983 - 1985
Chair: Alfred Nzo
Secretary: Hermanus Loots
Other members: Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini
5.4. The Politico-Military Council (PMC), 1983 - 1985
Chair: OR Tambo
Treasurer: Reg September
The Secretary of the PMC was Joe Nhlanhla, until 1987
MHQ representatives on the PMC: Joe Modise, Joe Slovo, Chris Hani.
PHQ representatives on the PMC: Joe Jele, Mac Maharaj, Jacob Zuma, John
Motshabi, Ruth Mompati
NAT representative on the PMC: Mzwai Piliso
Other members included: Alfred Nzo, T.T. Nkobi, Job Tlhabane
("Cassius Make"), Sizakele Sigxashe, Andrew Masondo, Moses Mabhida,
John Nkadimeng.
The following structures fell under the PMC:
5.5. Political HQ (1983 - 1985)
John Motshabi, Joe Jele, Mac Maharaj, Jacob Zuma, Jabu Molekane, Joel
Netshitenzhe, Vusi Mavimbela, Ellen Khuzwayo, Gertrude Shope, Ruth Mompati.
5.6. Military HQ, 1983 - 1985
Commander -in -Chief: OR Tambo
Army Commander: Joe Modise
Chief of Staff: Joe Slovo (1983 - 1985);
Deputy Army Commander and Commissar: Chris Hani (1983 - 1985)
Chief of Operations: Lambert Moloi (1983 - 1992)
Chief of Communications: Jackie Molefe (1983 - 1992)
Chief of Military Intelligence: Ronnie Kasrils (1983 - 1987)
Chief of Ordnance / Logistics: Job Tlhabane (1983 - 1987);
Special Operations no longer reported directly to the President.
Aboobaker Ismail was appointed overall commander of Special Operations, and
reported to Joe Slovo at MHQ.
5.7. NAT National Directorate (1983- 1985)
Director: Mzwai Piliso
Deputy Director and head of
Counter-Intelligence: "Peter" Tshikari
Head of Intelligence: "Ulysses" Modise
Head of the Central Intelligence
Evaluation Sector (CIES): Sizakele Sigxashe
5.8. Regional Politico-Military Councils 1983 - 1985
5.8.1. Maputo RPMC/ Co-ordinating Mechanism in Swaziland, 1983 - 1985 (included
Mozambique, Swaziland and Zimbabwe before 1985)
Joe Slovo, Jacob Zuma, "Lennox"Tshali, Bogart Soze, Sello Motau
("Paul Dikeledi"), Siphiwe Nyanda and John Nkadimeng.
After the signing of the Nkomati Accord in 1984, the Maputo RPMC was replaced by
a co-ordinating mechanism in Swaziland.
This was chaired by Ronnie Kasrils (1984), then Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim (1985 -
86) Other members included Thami Zulu, Siphiwe Nyanda, and a NAT representative.
Two regional PMCs reported to the co-ordinating mechanism in Swaziland: the Natal
Regional PMC, led by Shadrack Maphumulo, Ivan Pillay, Thami Zulu, Cyril
Raymonds ("Fear"), Terence Tryon, and Doris Skosana. the
Transvaal Regional PMC, led by Siphiwe Nyanda, Sello Motau ("Paul
Dikeledi"), "September", Ntsie Manye and "Archie"
(Billy Whitehead)
Each of these RPMCs had Military, Political and NAT structures.
Politico- Military machineries resorting under this RPMC were as follows:
Natal Urban:
Led by Ivan Pillay, Thami Zulu, and Terence Tryon
Natal Rural:
Led by Shadrack Maphumulo and Doris Skosana
Transvaal Urban:
Led by Siphiwe Nyanda, Sello Motau, and Solly Shoke
Transvaal Rural:
Led by "Archie" and Glory Sidebe ("September")
5.8.2. Botswana RPMC, 1983 - 1985
Botswana structures went through a number of rapid changes in the 1980s because
of a number of cross-border attacks and severe infiltration by the enemy.
In 1983, Lambert Moloi headed the Botswana RPMC. In 1984, a Co-ordinating
Committee was established, consisting of representatives from military and
political structures.
Chair: Thabang Makwetla, followed by Thenjiwe Mthintso
Political representative: Wally Serote
Military representative: Lambert Moloi - Also Rogers Nkadimeng (killed in a car
bomb in Gaborone, 1985)
The political machinery resorting under the Botswana RPMC at this time was led
by Wally Serote and Thabang Makwetla.
The military machinery was led by Thenjiwe Mthintso, Patrick Mavundla
("Naledi"), and "Dan".
5.8.3. Lesotho RPMC, 1983 - 1985
This RPMC was headed by Judson Khuzwayo, with "Wana", Linda Mti,
Skenjana Roji and Thenjiwe Mthintso (between 1982 - 1983.)
5.8.4. London RPMC, 1983 - 1985
Chair: Aziz Pahad
5.3.7. Angola, 1983 - 1985
Angola was a military zone under a Regional Command.
Angola Regional Command:
Commander: Timothy Mokoena (Godfrey Ngwenya) (1984 - 1987)
Commissar: January Masilela (1985 - 1986)
NAT: "Morris Seabelo" Dantili
6. ANC STRUCTURES, 1985 - 1990
The Kabwe Conference was held in May 1985. In response to the sharp increase in
mass struggle inside the country, Political HQ was replaced with a strengthened
Internal Political Committee (IPC) in 1987.
Operation Vula was launched in 1986, with Joe Slovo assisting the President. Mac
Maharaj and Ronnie Kasrils were among the leading figures in this project. By
1988, Mac Maharaj and Siphiwe Nyanda had been infiltrated into the country.
MHQ was also extended, with the appointment of a number of deputies at HQ level.
A Code of Conduct was adopted. In terms of the general (civilian) Code Of
Discipline, three offices were established specifically to better regulate
disciplinary procedures, and halt abuses that had been occurring. These were the
Review Board, the Officer of Justice, and the National Peoples' Tribunal.
A Provisional Directorate of Intelligence and Security was created to run NAT,
and action was taken to clarify the command structures over NAT personnel
deployed in Angola. A President's Council (also referred to as the National
Security Committee) was established in the latter half of 1987, and was chaired
by OR Tambo; this committee had the brief of overseeing the functioning of NAT
and dealing with security issues in general.
6.1. The NEC, 1985 - 1990
For the first time the ANC had a fully -elected NEC, consisting of 28 members.
President: OR Tambo
Secretary-General: Alfred Nzo
Treasurer: Thomas Nkobi
Other members: Johnny Makathini, Simon Makana, Joe Slovo, Thabo Mbeki,
Chris Hani, Moses Mabhida (until his death in 1986), Tony Mongalo, Dan Tloome,
John Motshabi, John Nkadimeng, Mac Maharaj, Cassius Make (until his
assassination in Swaziland in 1987), Florence Moposho, Joe Nhlanhla, Joe Modise,
Ruth Mompati, Henry Makgothi, Pallo Jordan, Jacob Zuma, Joe Jele, Sizakele
Sigxashe, Robert Manci, Gertrude Shope, Francis Meli, Reg September, Jackie
Selibi, Hermanus Loots ("James Stuart"), Steve Tshwete, Zola Skweyiya.
Other NEC members were co-opted in 1987: Ronnie Kasrils, Jackie Sedibe,
Aziz Pahad, and "Bra T" (Godfrey Ngwenya), and Sindiso Mfenyane.
6.2. The Office of the President, 1985 - 1990
The President's Committee
This committee was established in late 1987.
Chair: OR Tambo
Other members: The Secretary-General, Alfred Nzo; the Treasurer General,
Thomas Nkobi; the head of NAT, Joe Nhlanhla; Joe Modise.
The Office of Justice
This Office also reported to the President.
Chair: Zola Skweyiya (appointed by the NEC in 1985.)
The National Review Committee (the Review Board)
The Review Board reported to the President and the NSC.
Chair: Dan Tloome
The National Peoples' Tribunal (the Tribunal)
The Tribunal was appointed for a period of three years by the NEC. The President
appointed the Chair from among the members of the Tribunal. The Tribunal would
recommend sentences to the President, who would usually refer such cases to the
Review Board. After the Board had dealt with a case, sentence would be confirmed
by the President and carried out.
Chair: Hermanus Loots ("James Stuart"): appointed in late 1985
Other members: Shadrack Pekane; Z.N. Jobodwana.
6.3. External Co-ordinating Committee 1985- 1990
Chair: Alfred Nzo; also Thabo Mbeki, Johnny Makathini, and Hermanus Loots as
Secretary.
6.4. The PMC, 1985 - 1990
Chair: OR Tambo
The Secretary of the PMC Secretariat was Joe Nhlanhla (1983/84-87), followed by
Joe Jele (1987-90)
MHQ representatives on the PMC: Joe Modise, Joe Slovo, Chris Hani, Steve
Tshwete, Ronnie Kasrils, Job Tlhabane (until 1987)
PHQ was replaced by the Internal Political Committee in 1987. PHQ/IPC
representatives on the PMC during the period from 1985 - 1990 were: Mac Maharaj,
Joe Jele, Jacob Zuma, Ruth Mompati, Steve Tshwete, and Joel Netshitenzhe.
NAT representatives on the PMC: Mzwai Piliso (until 1987); and then Joe Nhlanhla
and Sizakele Sigxashe
Other members 1984 - 1987 included Moses Mabhida and John Nkadimeng.
The following structures resorted under the PMC
6.3.1. Political HQ until 1987, when it was replaced by the Internal
Political Committee in 1987:
PHQ was led by Joe Jele, with Mac Maharaj, Jacob Zuma, Ruth Mompati, Steve
Tshwete and Joel Netshitenzhe.
6.3.2. Military HQ, 1985 - 1990
Army Commander: Joe Modise
Chief-of-Staff: Joe Slovo (1985 - 1987) Chris Hani (1985 - 1992)
Commissar: Chris Hani (1985 - 1987) Steve Tshwete (1987) Godfrey Ngwenya (1987 -
1992)
Chief of Operations: Lambert Moloi (1983 - 1992)
Deputy: Julius Maliba (1987 - 1994)
Chief of Communications: Jackie Molefe (1983 - 1992
Deputy: Castro Bela (1987 - 1994))
Chief of Military Intelligence: Ronnie Kasrils (1983 - 1989), Keith Mokoape
(1989 - 1992) Mojo Motau (acting head as of 1992)
Deputy: Keith Mokoape (1987 - 1989)
Chief of Ordnance and Logistics: Job Tlhabane (1983 - 1987)
In 1987 Ordnance and Logistics were separated into two separate sections:
Logistics: Bogart Soze
Ordnance: Aboobaker Ismail (1987 - 1994)
Special Operations: Aboobaker Ismail until August 1987; then "Tommy
Masinga"
6.3.3. The NAT Directorate, 1985 - 1990
After the Kabwe Conference, the NEC appointed a Provisional Directorate of
Intelligence and Security to run this Department.
Director: Joe Nhlanhla (confirmed in 1987)
Deputy Director and Head of Intelligence: Jacob Zuma (1988)
Administrative Secretary: M. Timol
Head of CIES/ Processing and Analysis: Sizakele Sigxashe
Head of Counter-Intelligence and Security: "Peter" Tshikari"
(until 1986); then Jan Mampane
6.4. Regional Politico-Military Committees (RPMC's), 1985 - 1990
6.4.1. Swaziland RPMC, 1985 - 1990:
Chair: Ronnie Kasrils (chair, 1984); Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim, until 1986 when he
was abducted; Siphiwe Nyanda (1986 - 87/88); Silumko Sokupa (1988 - 1989)
Other members: Sello Motau ("Paul Dikeledi") (1985 -1987); Thami
Zulu (1985 -1988); Vusi Mavimbela (1985 - ); Welile Nhlapo (1985 - ) Shadrack
Maphumulo (1985 -1987, when he was killed ).
These committees resorted under the Swaziland RPMC:
Political Committee:
"Ivan" chaired the Natal structure
Billy Whitehead ("Archie") chaired the Transvaal structure
Military Committee:
Siphiwe Nyanda headed Transvaal structures
Thami Zulu headed Natal structures
6.4.2 Lesotho RPMC, 1985 - 1990
The RPMC which had previously been working in Lesotho was structured as follows
during this period:
Chair: Charles Nqakula
Chair of the Political Committee: Mzukisi Gaba
Chair of the Military Committee: Skenjana Roji
Chair of the Labour Committee: Tony Yengeni.
In 1987 - 1988 this RPMC was restructured as follows:
Chair: Charles Nqakula
Chair of the Military Committee: James Ngculu
Head of Special Operations: Edwin Mabitsela
Security and Intelligence structures remained in place. Additional members taken
on in this period were Lindinto Hlekani, Steve Tshwete, and Chris Pepani.
6.4.3. Botswana RPMC, 1985 - 1990
Botswana RPMC, mid-1985
After the Kabwe Conference, an RPMC was established to replace the Co-ordinating
Committee.
Chair: Thenjiwe Mthintso, until 1987; then Thabang Makwetla
Military representative: "Naledi" (Patrick Mavundla)
Political representative: Wally Serote
Structures resorting under the 1985 RPMC in Botswana included the following:
Political Committee: chaired by Thabang Makwetla
Military Committee: chaired by Thenjiwe Mthintso
Botswana RPMC, 1986:
In 1986, the RPMC had to change; Wally Serote was withdrawn to Lusaka. .
Chair: Barry Gilder (temporarily), then Thenjiwe Mthintso
Secretary: Thabang Makwetla
Military representative: Dan Hatto and Patrick Mavundla ( "Naledi")
Structures resorting under the 1986 Botswana RPMC were as follows:
Political machinery: Thabang Makwetla, Thabo Kubu, James Raditsela,
Mapule Raditsela, Hassan Ebrahim, Kgomotso Jolobe.
Military machinery: Patrick Mvundla ("Naldei Sehume", who was
killed in the SADF raid of 28/03/88); Boy Molokoane (who was killed in an ambush
outside Francistown in January 1988); "Itumeleng" Tsimane, and Dan
Hatto.
Botswana RPMC 1987
After 1986, structures had to change again and the RPMC was composed of the
following cadres:
Chair: Thabang Makwetla
Other members: January Masilela, Zakes Tolo, James Ngculu, Barry Gilder.
During this period a specialised structure concentrating on the Western Cape was
set up and was composed of the following cadres: James Ngculu, Dick Ngomane,
"Blah" Riekets, and later Miranda Ngculu.
6.4.4. Zimbabwe RPMC, 1985 - 1990
This RPMC was only set up in 1985.
Chair: Julius Maliba ("Manchecker")
Secretary: Garth Strachan
Other members: Ngoako Ramatlhodi, Linda Mti, Jabulani Nkabinde, and
"Oliver"
The Zimbabwe RPMC had three committees:
Political Committee:
Chair: Ngoako Ramatlhodi (1986 - 1987)
Secretary: Garth Strachan
Other members: Derek and Trish Hanekom; Jimmy Corrigall; Pete Roussos
Military Committee:
Chair: Julius Maliba (1985 - 1986) Jabulani Nkabinde (1986 - 1992)
Other members: "Ali", "Oliver", Benjamin Mongalo
There were also NAT representatives.
Ordnance: the head of the regional Ordnance structure was Benjamin
Mongalo, who reported directly to Lusaka. An additional structure was set up
under J. Modimo, tasked with infiltrating arms into the country, which also
reported directly to Lusaka.
6.4.5. London RPMC, 1985 - 1990
Chaired by Aziz Pahad; also Wally Serote.
6.4.6. Angola, 1985 - 1989
Regional Command:
Regional Commander: Timothy Mokoena (until 1987)
"Ali" Makhosini (1987 - 1989)
Deputy Commander: Mike Sandlana (until 1989)
Regional Commissar: January Masilela (until 1987/8)
NAT representative: Dexter Mbona (1986 - 1989)
Regional NAT structure:
Head: Dexter Mbona (1985 - 1989)
Deputy head: Gabriel Mthembu ("Sizwe Mkhonto"), 1984- 1986
6.4.7. Uganda (1989 - 1991)
Commander: Thabi Mofokeng
Head of Regional NAT Directorate: Quesh Dlamini
7. ANC STRUCTURES 1990 - 1994
With the unbanning of the ANC, the release of the ANC leadership from prison and
the return of exiles, many changes took place. A range of new structures had to
be set up to meet the challenge of negotiations and the return of exiles. Tokyo
Sexwale was tasked with attempting to take care of the need of MK cadres until
MK HQ personnel arrived in the country. Key structures set up during this period
included the Negotiations Commission. In response to the state-sponsored
violence which took off in July/August 1990, a Peace Desk was established.
Political structures at HQ were re-organised into an internal re-organisation
committee, which Ronnie Kasrils, Steve Tshwete and Sue Rabkin as key officials.
Here we concentrate only on those structures which are of relevance to the
mandate of the TRC.
7.1. The NEC, 1990 - July 1991
The NEC as constituted after the Kabwe Conference was reinforced by released
leaders.
The NEC, 1991 - 1994
At the National Conference in July 1991, the following people were elected:
President: Nelson Mandela
National Chairperson: OR Tambo
Deputy President: Walter Sisulu
Secretary-General: Cyril Ramaphosa
Deputy Secretary-General: Jacob Zuma
Treasurer-General: Thomas Nkobi
The rest of the NEC:
Kader Asmal, Thozamile Botha, Cheryl Carolus, Jeremy Cronin, Ebrahim Ismail
Ebrahim, Harry Gwala, Chris Hani, Pallo Jordan, Ronnie Kasrils, Ahmed Kathrada,
Terror Lekota, Saki Macozoma, Mac Maharaj, Rocky Malebane-Metsing, Winnie
Mandela, Trevor Manuel, Gill Marcus, Barbara Masekela, Thabo Mbeki, Raymond
Mhlaba, Wilton Mkwayi, Andrew Mlangeni, Joe Modise, Popo Molefe, Ruth Mompati,
Mohammed Valli Moosa, Elias Motsoaledi, Mendi Msimang, Sydney Mufamadi, Billy
Nair, Sister Bernard Ncube, Joe Nhlanhla, John Nkadimeng, Siphiwe Nyanda, Alfred
Nzo, Dullah Oimar, Aziz Pahad, Albie Sachs, Reg September, Albertina Sisulu,
Zola Skweyiya, Joe Slovo, Marion Sparg, Raymond Suttner, Steve Tshwete,
Mcwayizeni Zulu.
7.2. Office of the President, 1991 - 1994
This was closed down after 1991.
7.3. Military HQ, 1990 - 1994
Commander-in-Chief: Nelson Mandela
Army Commander: Joe Modise
Chief of Staff: Chris Hani (1985 - late 1992) Siphiwe Nyanda (1993-1994)
Deputy Chief-of-Staff: Siphiwe Nyanda (until late 1992)
Chief of Personnel: Godfrey Ngwenya
Deputy: Johannes Modimo
Chief of Operations: Lambert Moloi (1983 - 1992)
Chief of Communications: Jackie Molefe (1983 - 1992)
Chief of Military Intelligence: Ronnie Kasrils (1983 - 1987) Keith Mokoape
(1987- 1992)
Logistics: Bogart Soze
Ordnance: Aboobaker Ismail (1987 - 1994)
(Note: most of these posts were no longer operational posts in accordance with
the ANC's commitment to suspend armed actions in 1990.)
7.4. The NAT Directorate, 1990 - 1994
Director: Joe Nhlanhla
Head of Intelligence: Jacob Zuma, until 1993; Terror Lekota, 1993; Alfred Nzo,
1993 - 1994
Head of Counter-Intelligence: Daniel Oliphanti
Deputy Head, CI: Lizo Njenje
Head of Security: J. Mampane
Head of marshalls/
Deputy head, Security: Nceba Skumbuzo Radu, 1992 - 1994
Administrative Secretary: Billy Masetlha (1991 - 1994)
During the period from 1976 - 1980, camps in Angola fell under the command of
the late Mzwandile Piliso, at the time head of the department of Military
Training and Personnel. In 1980, Simon Shekeshe ("Julius Mokoena") was
appointed Regional Commander. He was succeeded by Graham Morodi
("Mashego") in 1982. Godfrey Ngwenya
("Timothy Mokoena") was the next Regional Commander until 1985 when he
was injured in a UNITA ambush, and then Ali Makhosini took over this post. The
following MK camps were maintained by the ANC in Angola; all camps were closed
down in 1989, when military structures were shifted to Uganda and Tanzania.
Gabela Training Camp
This was the first training camp to be opened in Angola by the ANC, in 1976. It
catered for the first group of 40 MK cadres to receive military training in
Angola, and was under the command of FAPLA and Cuban instructors. Gabela
Training Camp was merged with Benguela Camp in 1977.
Engineering Luanda (Transit Camp)
This camp opened in late 1976 and was closed in mid-1977. It catered for only
two intakes of cadres who were in transit to training camps. The average number
of cadres present was 200.
Commander: Simon Shekeshe, then "Castro" Ramokgopa
Benguela Transit Camp
This transit camp was established in mid 1977 for cadres who had been at
Engineering Camp and Gabela camp, and who were on their way to open Nova
Catengue Training Camp. The numerical strength was around 300 cadres. The camp
was closed in 1982.
Commanders: Simon Shekeshe, followed by "Dlokolo."
Nova Catengue Training Camp
Established in 1976, this camp accommodated around 500 cadres from the transit
camps listed above. The camp was destroyed in an aerial bombardment in 1979,
based on intelligence supplied to the apartheid regime by infiltrators within
MK.
Commander: Simon Shekeshe.
Quibaxe Training Camp
Originally a transit camp established in September 1977, it became a training
camp in 19.. It accommodated around 200 cadres. The camp closed in 1989.
Commanders: Successively, Parker Tsie (1977 - 1980), Oupa G. Banda, Seremane
Kgositsile ("Kenneth Mahamba"), Livingstone Tom Gaza, Herbert Malinga,
and Lloyd Mabizela, Sydney Mpila.
Funda Training Camp
Established in 1976, this camp usually had fewer than 100 cadres present at any
time. It was closed in 1988. This camp provided specialised training.
Commanders: Zakes Tolo, then Seeiso Morapedi.
Fazenda Military Camp
Fazenda camp was established in 1978. It catered for trained cadres who were
undergoing further training courses, including "survival" training.
The numerical strength was around 200 cadres at any time. It was closed in 1980
or early 1981 when it was merged with Quibaxe camp.
Commander: Livingstone Tom Gaza
Pango Camp
Founded in 1979 after the destruction of Nova Catengue in April that year. The
numerical strength was around 400 cadres at any time. It closed in 1989.
Commanders: Successively, Thami Zulu (1979 - 1981), Seremane Kgositsile, Godfrey
Ngwenya, Matthews Nkosi, Phillip Sebothoma, Dumile Thabekhulu, Ben Senokoanyane.
Viana Transit Camp (also known as Camp 001)
Established in 1979, this camp catered for newly recruited members of MK on
their way to other camps for military training. The average strength of the camp
was around 400 cadres. It closed in 1989.
Commanders: Sucessively, Dan Hatto, Golden Rahube, Steven Kobe, Johnson Langa,
Lawrence Madi, Leepo Modise.
Hoji Ya Henda (also known as Camalundi)
Founded in 1980, the camp was short-lived and was closed in January 1981, when
it was shifted to Caculama and became known as Caculama Camp or Malanje. It
catered for around 300 - 400 cadres at any time.
Commanders: Mzwakhe Ngwenya, then Godfrey N. Ngwenya
Caculama (Malanje)
Established in January 1981, as described above. Around 400 cadres were
accommodated at this camp. It was closed in 1989.
Commanders: Successively, Godfrey N. Ngwenya, Sipho Binda, Thibe Lesole,
Dumisane Mafo, Themba Nkabinde, Steven Kobe.
Caxito Training Camp
This camp replaced Funda camp in 1979. The number of cadres varied from time to
time but seldom more than 100 were present. Caxito was in a malaria infested
area and was for this reason closed down in 1984.
Commanders: Successively, Andile Ndzanga, Robert Mandita, Dumile Thabekhulu, and
Ben Senokoanyane.
1. The Morris Seabelo Rehabilitation Centre
(also known as Camp 32 or Quatro)
This facility was opened in 1979 and closed down in 1989, when inmates were
moved to a government facility in Uganda.
The commanders of Camp 32 were successively: Sizwe Mkhonto, Morris Seabelo,
Afrika Nkwe (for a few months only), Mzwandile Damoyi and William Masango.
Note: more information on Camp 32 appears in the NAT Operations report.
2. The RC, Lusaka
Initially this building was used by Military HQ, and MK cadres who had been
found guilty of disciplinary offences would be confined here for limited periods
as punishment - a kind of "detention barracks." Later, it was used to
hold discovered agents or definite suspects in transit to Camp 32. It was closed
in 1987 when Sun City was opened to take its place. Conditions at the RC were
good, and very few people were held here at any time; it is not possible to give
an estimate, as requested by the TRC, for the number of inmates at the RC at any
one time. The RC did not have a commander as such; those responsible for people
held at the RC would be senior MK and NAT officials in the region.
3. Sun City, Lusaka
Sun City was opened in 1988 and closed in 1991. It was not like Camp 32, with a
command structure - it was largely a holding facility, as described above. There
were one or two guards, and Jan Mampane ("Reddy Mazimba") of the
Regional NAT Directorate was responsible for people held at Sun City. Most of
those held were definite suspects who had been isolated for purposes of
investigation, and some who could not be held at Camp 32 because it was so badly
overcrowded.
4. Various holding facilities and the rehabilitation centre known as
"The Farm" in Tanzania.
A brief description of the ANC's facilities in Morogoro and Dakawa is necessary
to clear up confusion which may have arisen. The Solomon Mahlangu Freedom
College was built in Morogoro in the late 1970s. There was a primary school,
high school, day care centre and also an adult education centre, with staff
houses and other facilities. Unit 1 was part of the dormitory and kitchen area,
and a small office was used here to briefly confine people who had committed
serious breaches of discipline before they were sent to Lusaka for their cases
to be considered. It was not a prison in any sense of the word.
The Tanzanian government also had an office and representative at the entrance
to the complex, where there was a temporary holding facility since there was no
police station in the immediate area. People who had broken the laws of the land
would at times be held here by the Tanzanian government before being taken to
the nearest police station, after which the law would take its normal course.
This too was not in any sense a prison.
The Farm was established in late 1987 as a rehabilitation centre for ANC members
based in the area who had committed offences in terms of the ANC's code of
conduct, but whose cases the Tanzanian government considered too petty to be
dealt with in their courts of law (for example, stealing and selling clothing.)
It was also at times used as a holding facility for confessed agents and
definite suspects whilst the security structures in Tanzania were waiting for
tickets to arrive from Lusaka so that these agents or definite suspects could be
flown out of the area. Conditions were not harsh; the centre consisted of proper
buildings with tiled rooves; there was running water and flush toilets.
In 1989, when all camps were closed down in Angola, a batch of six dangerous
agents who had in fact been sentenced to death by tribunal, but who had not been
executed, arrived in Tanzania. The local NAT structures had no information as to
why these agents had arrived in Tanzania and were alarmed at their appearance in
this civilian area; they temporarily confined these agents at the Farm whilst
seeking clarity from structures in Lusaka. The Tanzanian government assisted by
clearing a wing of a local prison to confine these agents. Conditions in the
prison were not harsh.
The regional NAT structures responsibile for these holding facilities and the
rehabilitation centre during the 1980s were headed successively by Daniel
Oliphant ("Mtu Jwili"), Gabriel Mthembu ("Sizwe Mkhonto"),
and David Motshweni ("Willy Williams").
5. The Ugandan prison
By the time Camp 32 was closed down, there was a total of 69 prisoners. After
negotiations with the Ugandan government, they were transferred to a small
prison in the town of Kayunga, where conditions were considerably better. The
number of prisoners was further reduced by releases until only 32 of the most
hardened agents remained; these too were released in 1991.
The head of NAT structures in the region was Wandile Dlamini; Lister Mooi along
with Ugandan prison officials were responsible for guarding the prisoners.