President Jacob Zuma has recognised the roles played by former presidents PW Botha, Nelson Mandela and FW De Klerk, and the late ANC leader Oliver Tambo, in pushing for a democratic, peaceful South Africa.
In his state of the nation address, which coincided with the 20th anniversary of the release of Nelson Mandela, he also acknowledged the role played by IFP leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi and the late Progressive Federal Party MP Helen Suzman.
He said it was Botha who had initiated "the discussion about the possible release of political prisoners".
"President Botha worked with the former minister of justice, Mr Kobie Coetzee, who was in turn assisted by Dr Neil Barnard and Mr Mike Louw. They played a significant role in the process leading to the release of Madiba."
He said the country was yet to "acknowledge in full, the critical role played by the former president of the ANC, Comrade Oliver Tambo".
"It was his outstanding leadership, foresight and clarity of vision that led the ANC to intensify the pursuit of a negotiated settlement. His wisdom was also displayed in the Harare Declaration which he wrote and championed," he said.
"It was this that laid the groundwork for the historic announcements by president FW de Klerk, 20 years ago. In this, president De Klerk demonstrated great courage and decisive leadership.
"On this great day, let me also acknowledge the role played by the late Ms Helen Suzman. She was for a long time, a lone voice in Parliament, calling for change.
"We also recognise the role of the leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who also called for Madiba's release, as well as that of other prisoners and the return of exiles."