President announces intervention in Sandton Drive renaming

The South African government has announced its intervention in the ongoing discussions regarding the renaming of Sandton Drive.

This move is part of the broader national initiative to rename streets across the country as a way of addressing the historical injustices of colonialism and apartheid.

The presidential statement confirmed that the government is actively engaging with the City of Johannesburg to ensure the renaming process follows proper procedures and includes public consultation.

Also read: How do you feel about the proposal to rename Sandton Drive after Palestinian activist Leila Khaled?

The government emphasised that the renaming of streets is an important part of the country’s efforts to reflect its new democratic dispensation.

Also read: Petitions for and against renaming of Sandton Drive submitted to city

However, the renaming of Sandton Drive has raised diplomatic concerns, particularly with the United States.

Also read: Renaming of Sandton Drive to proceed despite objections, says MMC Kabelo Gwamanda

To manage these sensitivities, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has initiated talks with the City to establish a process that can mitigate potential tensions with the U.S.

Read more: Sandton Drive will be renamed, but what?

The statement reiterated that these talks are part of an intergovernmental cooperative process and encourage transparency, allowing the public to have their views heard

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