Written by: Gail Sham
Article source: Supplied
A protest took place outside the City of Johannesburg Council Chambers on Wednesday 27 November, opposing the proposed renaming of Sandton Drive, with hundreds of demonstrators expressing concerns over the implications for national unity, reconciliation, and South Africa’s core values of peace and human dignity.
The protest included members of the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), various political parties, The South African Friends of Israel (SAFI), prominent public figures including Mpho Phalatse, former Mayor of the City of Johannesburg and civil society members.
At the heart of the protest was the objection to naming a major Johannesburg street after Leila Khaled, an active member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), who is internationally associated with violent and extremist actions, including hijackings and attacks on civilians. The PFLP, under Khaled’s leadership, has been responsible for attacks that claimed the lives of Christian pilgrims and many others. Such a legacy starkly contrasts South Africa’s values of reconciliation and peace-building.
A petition reflecting the concerns of a broad coalition of South Africans, including businesses, faith groups, cultural associations, and over 30,000 citizens who have voiced their objections through the public participation site, Dear South Africa, was handed over to the City Council by The South African Friends of Israel (SAFI).
Bafana Modise, spokesperson for SAFI, emphasised, “South Africa is a nation striving to heal its divisions. Renaming a prominent street after someone with such a violent legacy undermines this effort and promotes division rather than unity. Our communities deserve to be represented by names that symbolise hope, progress, and inclusivity.”
Modise also says the financial cost of renaming a major street, stating that Johannesburg, with its ongoing infrastructure, cannot afford this and should only do so in exceptional circumstances. “Renaming Sandton Drive after a polarising figure dishonors South African heroes who have made genuine contributions to our national story. Leila Khaled has no connection to Johannesburg or South Africa’s history, and this decision contradicts the city’s naming policies,” she added.
Modise concluded, “South Africa has a moral duty to reject the glorification of violence and extremism. Our Constitution demands respect for the right to life and human dignity. By renaming a landmark after Khaled, we risk sending the wrong message and undermining our pursuit of peaceful coexistence.”
The protestors urged the City of Johannesburg to focus on honouring figures who embody the values of justice, reconciliation, and unity—values that are central to the South African identity.
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Date published: 28/11/2024
Feature image: Supplied
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