Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
06 October 2024 | 15:56 CAT

The African National Congress (ANC) has reignited calls to rename Sandton Drive after Leila Khaled, an activist and member of the resistance movement Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. (Image – SAPeople)

It is the 10th consecutive day of Israel’s advancement into Southern Lebanon. Hundreds of people have died across the Northern Border this time, adding to the continuous carnage and genocide taking place, and Gaza is in the West Bank.

Human rights NGO Africa4Palestine has supported the City of Johannesburg’s recent efforts to rename Sandton Drive to Leila Khalid Drive.

Leila Khalid, an iconic figure in the resistance movements, hijacked a plane in the name of freedom for Palestine. Her historical significance as a member of the Palestinian resistance for many decades is undeniable.

The NGO highlights the unity of several political parties, including the ANC, the EFF, and Al Jamah, in supporting the Palestinian people and their struggle against Israeli oppression. This historic and significant motion, adopted by a majority vote in the city council in 2018, is a powerful show of solidarity.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, thoAfrica4Palestine’s Alie Komape argued against the renaming opposition to not change the name to Leila Drive because of the cost to the taxpayer, explaining that the agenda is much deeper.

“Those who oppose the renaming of Sandton Drive to Leila Khalid Drive have silly arguments like there are better things to do with the money, including Leila Khalid is not African; therefore she is not an important person to name,’ he pointed out.

Komape argued that the train has long left the station, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission has well documented the redress of past injustices in this country.

“The City of Johannesburg is fully within its rights to rename streets and public spaces in honor of individuals who embody shared histories, values, and aspirations,” he said.

“Our own heritage and the fight for decolonization remind us that this is more than just a name change—it is a profound recognition of our collective struggle against colonialism and oppression. It connects our past to the present and demonstrates solidarity with those who are oppressed, as they stood with us during the darkest days of Apartheid,” Africa4Palestine reaffirms its commitment to the cause.

Listen here to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Alie Komape.