S. Africa Amnesty Plan Approved

A controversial plan to grant amnesty for political crimes committed under apartheid won approval Friday to become law despite its defeat in Parliament and widespread opposition.

The President’s Council, a 60-member advisory body dominated by President Frederik W. de Klerk’s governing National Party, endorsed the measure, permitting De Klerk to sign it into law.

However, the council recommended changing the bill’s most contentious provision, which permits disclosure of only the names of people granted amnesty. The council said the law also should require disclosure of the crimes committed, as demanded by the African National Congress and other black groups, legal groups and some white political leaders.

Any changes to the bill, such as those recommended by the council, cannot be made until Parliament reconvenes in January. The government is not obliged to follow any recommendations.