Backlash Over Plan to Rename Sandton Drive After Palestinian Militant

The City of Johannesburg has once again stirred public frustration by proposing a street name change—this time targeting Sandton Drive, one of the city’s busiest routes. According to a notice shared by the city, the road could be renamed Leila Khaled Drive, after a former Palestinian militant.

Leila Khaled is known for hijacking two commercial planes in the 1960s and 70s, actions that have made her a controversial figure globally. The proposal comes just a year after William Nicol Drive was renamed Winnie Mandela Drive, sparking similar backlash at the time.

South Africans Push Back

The reaction from the public has been swift and heated. Across social media platforms, many South Africans called the proposal both “wasteful” and “out of touch” with the needs of local residents.

“What an absolute waste of time and money! Deliver basic services first before these wasteful, unwanted and frivolous initiatives,” said Facebook user Murray Mackintosh.

Other comments echoed frustration over poor service delivery, unemployment, and deteriorating infrastructure being ignored in favor of politically motivated renaming campaigns.

“Forget the children in underprivileged areas who need an education. Forget the unemployed. Forget the infrastructure. Just spend a fortune changing street names,” said Terry Ralph.

Political Criticism

Johannesburg ward councillor Martin Williams questioned the relevance of the proposed name, noting that Khaled has no known ties to the city and made no contribution to its development.

The city’s proposal has also reignited an ongoing national debate about which figures deserve public commemoration, and whether local infrastructure spending should prioritize symbolic gestures over practical services.

A Call for Local Icons

Some residents suggested more appropriate figures to honor. One proposal mentioned renaming a street in Gqeberha after Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, a national sports hero. However, that suggestion also faced resistance, with some saying Kolisi himself might not support it.

Meanwhile, residents like Tahb’sile Ledwaba made it clear they’d rather see Sandton Drive left untouched.

“We want to keep it as Sandton Drive,” she wrote.

What Happens Next?

The City of Johannesburg has not yet confirmed when or if the name change will be finalized. Public consultation may play a role, but if past efforts are any indication, city officials could move ahead despite the public outcry.

For now, residents are urged to stay informed, participate in consultations, and continue voicing their opinions through official channels.

{Source: MSN}

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