[Shasown]

Originally Posted by setanta

You're not really telling me anything that disproves that there's similarites in both cases, and it's interesting to note Mandela was offered freedom earlier on in his imprisonment on the sole condition that he publically rejected violence as a political weapon. He refused of course.

Of course he refused. You are however putting two facts together and coming up with a third "fact" that isnt really conclusive. It's interesting to note the statement that was released through his daughter at the time. It doesnt mention about not wanting to give up an armed struggle or being willing to give up an armed struggle, it did mention however that he was a prisoner even if he was freed he would still technically be a prisoner and as such not in a position to act as a negotiator.

"What freedom am I being offered while the organisation of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts"

This was because at the time the ANC was outlawed, even if Mandela was free he was then subject to re arrest at any time for being the negotiator or representative of a banned organisation. So logically he couldnt represent anything.

In other words the outlawing of the ANC had to be reversed before any member of the ANC could or would sit and negotiate.

Incidentally referring back to the offer it was if they gave up the armed struggle, as I said Mandela didnt mind destroying parts of government, buildings etc, they were legitimate targets, but denounced the taking of life. Though this position was only taken up after the Sharpsville Massacre.

Besides how many people did Mandela shoot?(his early life as Derry's top shot) Or authorise to be "interrogated" then topped?(Hegarty) Or authorise blown up (Enniskillen)