Magnus Malan | |
|---|---|
 Magnus Malan circa 1990. | |
| Minister of Defence | |
| In office 1980–1991 | |
| Prime Minister | P. W. Botha and F. W. de Klerk |
| Preceded by | P. W. Botha |
| Succeeded by | Roelf Meyer |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Magnus André de Merindol Malan 30 January 1930 Pretoria, Transvaal, South Africa |
| Died | 18 July 2011 (aged 81) Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Political party | National |
| Spouse |
Magrietha Johanna van der Walt
(m. 1962) |
| Alma mater | University of Pretoria |
| Occupation | Politician and military chief |
| Civilian awards |  |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | South Africa |
| Branch/service | |
| Years of service | 1950–1980 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands | Chief of the South African Defence Force Chief of the Army Western Province Command South African Military Academy |
| Battles/wars | Operation Savannah |
| Military awards |        |
General Magnus André de Merindol Malan SSA, OMSG, SD, SM, MP (30 January 1930 – 18 July 2011) was a South African military figure and politician during the last years of apartheid in South Africa. He served respectively as Minister of Defence in the cabinet of President P. W. Botha, Chief of the South African Defence Force (SADF), and Chief of the South African Army. Rising quickly through the lower ranks, he was appointed to strategic command positions. His tenure as chief of the defence force saw it increase in size, efficiency and capabilities.[1]
As P.W. Botha's cabinet minister, he posited a total communist onslaught, for which an encompassing national strategy was devised. This entailed placing policing, intelligence and aspects of civic affairs under control of generals. The ANC and SWAPO were branded as terrorist organizations, while splinter groups (UNITA and RENAMO) were bolstered in neighbouring and Frontline States.[1] Cross-border raids targeted suspected bases of insurgents or activists, while at home the army entered townships from 1984 onwards to stifle unrest. Elements in the Inkhata Freedom Party were used as a proxy force, and rogue soldiers and policemen in the CCB assassinated opponents.[1]
- ^ a b c "Obit – Magnus Malan: monster and militarist". South Africa. City Press. 23 July 2011. Retrieved 15 August 2018.