Marais Viljoen

South African politician and state president

Marais Viljoen - Leaders & Politicians born 1915
Born

1915
111 years ago

Died
Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

South Africa

Links & References

Served as the 5th State President of South Africa from 1978 to 1979. Held notable positions in the political landscape of the country, including Leader of the House in Parliament and Minister of Foreign Affairs. His administration focused on issues relating to apartheid policies and international relations during a turbulent period in South African history.

Served as the 5th State President of South Africa

Held various ministerial positions in government

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