Sandton Drive renaming a sensitive issue - Morero
Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero said the renaming of Sandton Drive to honour Palestinian activist Leila Khaled needs to be handled with the necessary sensitivity.
The renaming process, which has been shrouded in controversy, has been on the cards since last year following a motion by Al-Jama ah during the tenure of former mayor Kabelo Gwamanda.
However, some political parties in the city, including the DA, ACDP, and ActionSA, have rejected the proposal.
Khaled is a prominent Palestinian activist and member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine group.
She rose to fame in the 1960s after being involved in hijacking a plane on a journey from Rome to Tel Aviv in protest against what she labelled Israeli aggression towards Palestinians.
The proposed renaming comes at a time when relations between the US and South Africa are at an all-time low, with warnings that the US could close its consulate in Sandton should the renaming go ahead.
The US consulate is situated on Sandton Drive.
President Cyril Ramaphosa also recently stepped in, saying that the national government will engage with the City of Johannesburg through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
“While respecting public participation outcomes, the city is committed to engaging with relevant stakeholders to assess diplomatic implications before any decision is finalised,” Morero told a media briefing on Wednesday.
“The city affirms that all consultative processes, including diplomatic considerations, will be conclusively addressed to ensure the council’s decision aligns with national interests and fosters constructive international relations.”
Morero admitted that diplomatic policies will play a decisive role in the eventual decision.
“Johannesburg values its relationship with the United States and recognises the need to address sensitivities that may impact bilateral ties,” he said.
“The city has an obligation to prioritise healing diplomatic tensions and act in South Africa’s best interests. Solidarity with global causes, such as support for Palestine, should not be used to undermine our partnerships with other nations.”
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