The World - News from April 1, 1988

The South Africa government banned all outdoor meetings for a year, except those involving sporting events or funerals. Justice Minister Kobie Coetsee announced the order, to take effect today, under terms of the Internal Security Act, which prohibits a range of activities. Under national emergency regulations already in effect, outdoor rallies are illegal unless approved by a magistrate or Law and Order Minister Adriaan Vlok. The order appeared to be aimed at campaigning for nationwide municipal elections scheduled for October. By forcing the rallies to be held indoors, the government apparently seeks to limit the size of crowds and reduce the potential for violence.