The World - News from Jan. 13, 1987

The State Department welcomed the more responsible positions it said the African National Congress has taken in recent statements, but it charged that Communists have “inordinate influence” in the South African guerrilla movement. Department spokeswoman Phyllis Oakley said the United States has taken note of “a positive stand on important economic and political issues” taken by the congress but added that the “influence of Communists within the organization” is reflected in many ways. In statements marking its recent 75th anniversary, the congress appealed to moderate whites in South Africa to join the fight for black rights.