Mandela Warns on Lifting Sanctions

African National Congress leader Nelson Mandela threatened Friday to unleash a new wave of “mass action” aimed at making new investment here impossible if the United States and European nations lift their sanctions against South Africa.

It was the first time that the ANC has hinted at using such tactics against foreign companies. “Mass action” refers to the current ANC campaign to press its reform demands through street demonstrations, mass rallies, boycotts and other forms of protest.

In speaking to reporters, Mandela said he was sure President Bush would be “keen” to consult with the ANC before taking any decision on easing sanctions in response to President Frederik W. de Klerk’s announcement a week ago that he will ask Parliament to repeal three basic apartheid laws.

Mandela said he had “no doubt” that Bush would not proceed the same way the European Community did Monday, when its 12 foreign ministers announced that their governments would lift sanctions once the repeal takes effect.

Mandela accused the European governments of wanting South Africa “to be turned upside down” with protests by deciding to lift their last economic sanctions, a ban on the import of South African iron, steel and gold coins.