Letter to People`s Forum: Now is your time to speak

6 November, 1993

Dear Friend,

Thank you for giving me and other leaders of the ANC a chance to hear what you think and feel.

Allow me to take this opportunity to tell you that the ANC has spent many years with some of the most talented South Africans putting together and formulating its policies.

More recently, we have begun working on a plan for the reconstruction and development of South Africa. When finalised, this plan will do something concrete about the terrible social and economic conditions created by years of apartheid rule.

It will be a plan to stimulate the economy and create jobs; a plan to ensure that all our children receive the education they deserve; a plan to provide training and open doors of opportunity. Above all, it will be a plan that will bring about peace in our land and create a just society based on the principles of democracy and the rights of the individual.

Throughout the struggle the ANC has always given expression to the voice and will of the people. Now that, for the first time, you have the chance to elect a government of your choice we want to ensure that the ANC remains true to this cause.

May I assure you that your thoughts and feelings will play a meaningful role in our efforts to serve the people and continue our job of building a just and fair society in which our children can grow and prosper.

I thank you once again, Yours sincerely,

Nelson R. Mandela