January 9 holds a unique place in South Africa’s history, marking occasions of political upheaval, labour unrest, and pivotal moments that shaped the nation’s journey towards democracy and equality.
These historical events happened on 9 January
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This day, across different years, witnessed events ranging from massive strikes to political demands that played crucial roles in the country’s evolution.
1. 1973 Durban Strike
On 9 January 1973, Durban became the epicentre of a significant labour movement when workers at the Coronation Brick and Tile factory initiated a strike.
This movement, involving over 60 000 Black workers, marked a pivotal moment in the fight against apartheid and the rise of non-racial trade unionism.
The strike was primarily peaceful, despite a few confrontations with the police, and laid the groundwork for a new wave of independent non-racial trade unions, eventually leading to the formation of FOSATU and COSATU.
2. 1922 Rand Rebellion
The 1922 Rand Rebellion, also known as the Red Revolt, began on 9 January with approximately 22 000 white miners in the Witwatersrand gold mines going on strike. This general strike quickly escalated into an armed uprising against the state and mine owners, prompted by the miners’ response to reduced wages and the replacement of white workers with black workers.
The rebellion, marked by violence and the eventual intervention of the defence force, highlighted the racial and economic tensions of the period.
3. 1990 SATS Strike
On this day in 1990, a tragic incident occurred during a strike by South African Transport Services (SATS) workers. Approximately 800 striking workers, en route to a union meeting, were confronted by a group of non-striking workers at Germiston Station, East Rand.
This confrontation resulted in the deaths of seven people and injuries to around sixty-seven others, underscoring the intense labour conflicts of the era.
4. 1993 ANC’s Democratic Demands
The African National Congress (ANC) played a pivotal role on 9 January 1993, by putting forward five demands essential for facilitating South Africa’s first democratic elections. These demands included the resumption of multilateral talks, the establishment of a Transitional Executive Council, and calls for an independent electoral commission and media commission.
The ANC’s stance was clear – ensuring a free and fair electoral process was paramount for the country’s democratic future.
5. 1986 Limpet Mine Explosion in Durban
On 9 January 1986, a limpet mine explosion at a substation in Jacobs, Durban, marked a day of violence and unrest. A second explosion later killed a policeman and injured several others.
This incident was part of a series of resistance activities against the apartheid regime, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the lengths to which opposition groups would go to challenge the state.