SAFI Protests Sandton Drive Renaming After Leila Khaled with over 30 000 signatures

The South African Friends of Israel (SAFI) has raised concerns over the proposal to rename Sandton Drive after Palestinian activist Leila Khaled. The organisation argues that this move contradicts South Africa’s values of peace-building and reconciliation.

The protest held outside the City of Johannesburg Council Chambers in Braamfontein, drew significant support from civic groups and political parties, including the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) and former Johannesburg mayor Mpho Phalatse.

At the heart of the protest lies Leila Khaled’s controversial legacy. Khaled is globally known for her involvement in aircraft hijackings, which many argue represents a violent past that conflicts with South Africa’s nation-building efforts.

“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,” said Bafana Modise, SAFI spokesperson.

Protesters also highlighted the financial strain that the renaming process could place on Johannesburg’s already stretched resources. Modise pointed out that funds could be better utilized to repair dilapidated infrastructure in the city.

“Renaming Sandton Drive after a polarising figure dishonours South African heroes who have made genuine contributions to our national story,” Modise emphasized.

In addition to financial concerns, SAFI argues that Khaled has no direct connection to Johannesburg or South Africa, making the proposal controversial and unnecessary.

Through a public participation process hosted by Dear South Africa, over 30,000 citizens signed a petition opposing the name change. The petition was submitted to the City Council, with protesters urging the metro to reconsider.

Despite public backlash, the City of Johannesburg maintains that the proposal followed its Naming and Renaming Policy.

City spokesperson Nthatisi Modingoane stated, “The city finalized counting the comments, and a report will be prepared for Council decision. It will start serving in the city’s committee system in early 2025.”

SAFI’s concerns echo those of other organisations, including ActionSA and the DA, which argue that the renaming could disrupt efforts to unify communities.

“South Africa has a moral duty to reject the glorification of violence and extremism,” Modise concluded. “Our Constitution demands respect for the right to life and human dignity.”

As the debate continues, SAFI and other civic groups remain committed to ensuring Johannesburg’s landmarks reflect values of hope, progress, and inclusivity.

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