Today in Kimberley's History
February 29th
"Every day has a story about Kimberley's past."
On this day...
Leap Day appears on the calendar only once every four years, making it one of the rarest dates in history. While no major event is specifically recorded in Kimberley on 29 February, the city's long tradition of standing against injustice makes this an appropriate day to reflect on one of South Africa's defining moments in the struggle for democracy.
1988 – Archbishop Desmond Tutu Arrested During Protest
On 29 February 1988, Archbishop Desmond Tutu was arrested outside Parliament in Cape Town while leading a peaceful protest against the death sentences imposed on the Sharpeville Six. The six—Reginald Sefatsa, Reid Mokoena, Moses Diniso, Theresa Ramashamole, Duma Khumalo and Francis Mokhesi—had been convicted for the 1984 killing of Sharpeville deputy mayor Jacob Khuzwayo Dhlamini. Their death sentences sparked widespread national and international criticism because they were based on the legal doctrine of common purpose, under which individuals could be convicted without proof that they had personally committed the fatal act.
Archbishop Tutu, already recognised around the world for his leadership in opposing apartheid through non-violent means, joined a protest march calling for clemency. He was arrested alongside other demonstrators but released a few hours later. The campaign to save the Sharpeville Six continued for several years. Following repeated stays of execution and growing international pressure, they were eventually reprieved in 1991 as negotiations between the South African government and the liberation movements gathered momentum.
Although these events took place in Cape Town, they resonated deeply in Kimberley. The city had long been home to influential voices in South Africa's struggle for justice, including Sol Plaatje and Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, whose commitment to equality and human rights helped shape the country's democratic future.
Did You Know?
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his courageous, nonviolent opposition to apartheid, becoming one of South Africa's most respected international figures.
Can't find a Kimberley connection for a particular date? Our Today in Kimberley's History collection is continually expanding as we research Kimberley's rich history. If you know of a notable local event that occurred on a specific date, we'd love to hear from you using the Contact Us page.
Kimberley's Story Continues
Kimberley's history is closely connected to South Africa's journey towards democracy. While Leap Day does not bring a major local event to remember, it offers an opportunity to reflect on the values championed by many of Kimberley's most remarkable citizens—justice, equality and respect for human dignity. Those ideals continue to shape the city's story today.
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