May 1981 Broadly-based national campaign to boycott celebrations of 20th anniversary of apartheid republic.
Nov 1981 Elections to South African Indian Council (SAIC) boycotted after campaign led by Anti-SAIC committees – only 10 per cent of electorate voted.
July 1982 Community Council elections postponed for third time, until November 1983, as boycott campaign gathers force.
Aug 1982 A federal National Party congress adopts constitutional proposals based on 1977 National Party policy.
Jan 1983 (Coloured) Labour Party agrees to participate in proposed new constitution: Mass meetings show rejection of Labour Party stand by Coloured community.
Decision to form a United Democratic Front (UDF) taken at conference convened by Transvaal Anti-SAIC Committee.
May 1983 Regional UDF organisations established over next three months.
June 1983 Inaugural meeting of National Forum attended by an estimated 800 people involving representatives of 150 to 200 organisations.
Aug 1983 UDF national launch at meeting of 10–12,000 people in Cape Town, with support of an estimated 400 organisations.
Sept 1983 White Parliament passes Constitution Act and a referendum of white voters on the issue is announced.
Elections to Coloured Management Committees boycotted. Only eight per cent of electorate registers: even fewer vote.
Nov 1983 Referendum of whites on proposed constitution to take place on 2 November. Elections to be held for Community Councils and 29 new African local authorities (previously Community Councils).
