DA Submits Over 5,500 Objections to Sandton Drive Renaming

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted over 5,500 objections to the City of Johannesburg against the proposed renaming of Sandton Drive. Filed on October 15, the objections reflect widespread opposition from local residents and businesses, citing concerns over the financial burden and lack of proper consultation.

The DA criticized the renaming as a “costly vanity project” in a city already struggling with basic service delivery. They argue that the funds should be directed towards addressing pressing infrastructure needs rather than symbolic gestures. Leah Potgieter, a DA Member of Parliament, questioned the legality of the city’s plans, stating that the Community Development Department admitted it lacked the funds for the renaming and was seeking irregular financing from the Department of Transport.

Businesses in Sandton, a major financial hub, have also expressed concerns about the economic impact.

According to the party, companies with properties worth over R17.5 billion fear that renaming Sandton Drive could strain diplomatic and business relations and impose additional costs related to rebranding and address changes.

The DA vowed to continue advocating for good governance and transparency, accusing the city of failing to follow constitutional principles and proper consultation processes. The party maintains that renaming efforts should focus on honoring South African heroes, rather than serving political motives. The debate continues, with the city under pressure to address both public and private sector concerns.

City Clarifies the Closing Date for Public Submissions

The City does admit that the public consultation process around the proposed renaming of Sandton Drive to Leila Khaled Drive has attracted widespread attention and high levels of public participation, noting the thousands of submissions received. Keeping to an open and transparent process, public comment has been invited on the proposal, which is still to be considered by the City Council before a final decision is taken.

“Reverting back to the Council Meeting held on November 2018, a motion was passed to re-name Sandton Drive after the Palestinian activist Leila Khaled. In keeping with good governance, the proposed re-naming remains subject to public consultation, which the City has taken for comment to a wide range of media and public platforms. This is done in accordance with the approved policy of the Naming of Streets and Public Places, which emphasizes the importance of public consultation,” said the City in a statement.

According to the Metro, all comments received will be collated and reported to a full sitting of the Council, where the proposed re-naming can be considered and debated by political parties and elected public representatives before a final decision is made.