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Winnie Madikizela Mandela photographed in 2013.
Jeff J Mitchell / Getty Images
- In September, the City announced a proposed change from William Nicol Drive, in Bryanston, to Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Drive.
- The City has requested public comment on the proposed change.
- Nicol was a Dutch Reformed minister, a member of the National Party and the Broederbond, an Afrikaner nationalist group that existed during apartheid.
Johannesburg City Mayor Geoff Makhubo has encouraged the public to participate in the debate on the proposed renaming of William Nicol Drive to Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Drive.
In a statement Thursday, Makhubo asked the public and all interested parties to share their comments and representation on the matter.
Nicol was a Dutch Reformed minister, a member of the National Party and the Broederbond, an Afrikaner nationalist group that existed during apartheid. He was also a co-author of Only racial apartheid (Only racial apartheid).
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“Names carry history. It says something about those whose contributions are considered worthy of multigenerational public memory. They are by their very nature controversial and therefore should always be treated with the sensitivity they deserve.” Makhubo said.
Makhubo said the initial responses were encouraging and positive.
“This renaming of one of the City’s iconic landmarks is the result of the city council’s commitment to transformation and social cohesion. It symbolizes Mama Winnie’s immeasurable commitment to the fight for humanity and the liberation of our country.” He said.
Members of the public wishing to add input may do so in writing to the Office of Cultural Heritage and the Arts, 2 Helen Joseph Street, Joburg Newtown Building.
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