South African politician, prime minister 197884 and the first executive state president 198489. He was a staunch supporter of apartheid and made use of force both inside and outside South Africa to stifle African National Congress (ANC) party activity. After suffering a stroke in 1989, he unwillingly resigned both party leadership and presidency and was succeeded by F W de Klerk.
The arms show a Bible open at the Gospel of St John, a Trinitarian symbol. The white cross symbolizes faith. The arms appear on national and state flags. Effective date: 14 September 1863.