PW BOTHA’S LETTER OF RESIGNATION AS LEADER OF THE NATIONAL PARTY
On the morning of 2 February, 1989 – without any prior notification – President PW Botha sent the following letter to Mr Boet Bothma, the Chairman of the National Party caucus, informing the caucus that he had decided to step down as the party’s leader.
“Dear friend
Arising from the setback to my health, I would appreciate it if you would present this letter to the caucus.
In my opinion the office of the state president and the office of leadership of the National Party should now be separated.
I would accordingly appreciate it if the caucus of the National Party would now fill the post of the leader so that I can be put in a position to continue only with the office of state president.
The state presidency will then, to a considerable degree, become a unifying force in the country.
I thank all my friends for their trust and friendship in the past.
It is my innermost prayer that that you will receive the special grace of God Almighty.
With sincere wishes to you all.
Wishing you prosperity and blessings.
PW Botha”