F. W. de Klerk's Speech at the Opening of Parliament 2 February 1990 De Klerk On 11 February, Mandela walked free hand in hand with his wife Winnie F. W. de Klerk's speech at the opening of Parliament 2 February 1990 Mr Speaker, Members of Parliament . THE GENERAL ELECTIONS on September the 6th, 1989, placed our country irrevocably on the road of drastic change. Underlying this is the growing realisation by an increasing number of South Africans that only a negotiated understanding among the representative leaders of the entire population is able to ensure lasting peace. The alternative is growing violence, tension and conflict. That is unacceptable and in nobody's interest. The well-being of all in this country is linked inextricably to the ability of the leaders to come to terms with one another on a new dispensation. No-one can escape this simple truth. On its part, the Government will accord the process of negotiation the highest ...