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Marais ViljoenPresident of South Africa in 1978 and 1979–1984.
Date of Birth: 02.12.1915
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Content:
- Marthinus Wessel Viljoen: Last State President of South Africa
- Parliamentary and Presidential Career
- Moderate Views and Controversial Resignation
- Structural Reforms and Legacy
- Post-Presidential Life and Death
Marthinus Wessel Viljoen: Last State President of South Africa
Early Life and CareerMarthinus Wessel Viljoen was born into a large family of six children. He entered the world of politics after working in the postal service and for the Afrikaans newspaper "Die Transvaler."
Parliamentary and Presidential Career
Viljoen served in the South African parliament, representing the town of Alberton. He ascended to the position of Senate Chairman and was twice elected as State President by the parliament. His first term was brief, lasting less than three months, while his second spanned eight months.
Moderate Views and Controversial Resignation
Despite being a member of the National Party, which implemented the apartheid policy, Viljoen was considered a moderate. His eventual resignation in September 1984 was linked to allegations of perjury regarding the government's funding of pro-apartheid forces both domestically and internationally.
Structural Reforms and Legacy
With Viljoen's resignation, South Africa transitioned to a reformed government structure where the office of Prime Minister was abolished. The last Prime Minister, Peter Botha, became the first President under the new system.
Post-Presidential Life and Death
Despite retiring from the presidency, Viljoen remained engaged in politics until his death. He passed away in Pretoria at the age of 91 due to a heart attack.
