NAME CHANGE Heated discussions at public hearings
Sonia Wahl
The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture (DSRAC) conducted public participation hearings in Graaff-Reinet, Aberdeen, Adendorp and Nieu-Bethesda from 26 to 29 February, to discuss proposed name changes, the hearings were held for comment from the public.
The collaboration with the Eastern Cape Provincial Geographical Names Committee (ECPGNC) aimed to address historical injustices and foster inclusivity, but the discussions have revealed divisions within local communities.
Graaff-Reinet
The initial hearings in Graaff-Reinet ignited controversy, particularly surrounding the proposed change to Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe.
While some advocated for the change as a step towards rectifying historical injustices, others opposed it, citing concerns about the lack of rationale behind the proposed changes and the potential negative impact on tourism.
Questions were voiced regarding public voting procedures, the financial burden of implementing changes, and the effectiveness of previous renaming efforts.
Jonny Mahlala, the deputy chairperson of the ECPGNC, defended the necessity of these changes to address historical injustices, emphasising thorough public consultation before a final decision is made. Mark Mandita of the DSRAC highlighted the significant number of name alterations in the Eastern Cape, underscoring ongoing efforts to align with South Africa's heritage preservation goals.
The four public participation hearings held in Graaff-Reinet resulted in a division among Graaff-Reinet residents, with some supporting and others opposing the name change.
The majority of attendees at these meetings were against the change, except at uMasizakhe where it was strongly favoured.
Attendees were given the opportunity to express their concerns, with those opposed to the change citing potential impacts on tourism and income.
Residents also questioned why funds couldn't be allocated to community upliftment instead.
Aberdeen
In Aberdeen, there were only a few residents in favour of the name change at Thembalisizwe Hall, with the majority against it.
Tensions rose at Library Hall in Aberdeen when attendees didn't receive satisfactory answers to their inquiries.
One participant queried the number of name changes in the Eastern Cape, to which Mandita responded that 234 names had been altered, including registrations and spelling corrections. The community member then questioned whether this had improved residents' lives. Another query raised by her concerned unsuccessful name change applications, prompting questions about whether the public's involvement was futile given the committee's predetermined decisions.
Adendorp
In Adendorp, representatives for the name change contributed to a charged atmosphere that reflected the passionate voices on both sides of the debate. Despite tensions, the meeting remained orderly, but for some attendees, the proposed changes failed to meet necessary criteria.
Nieu-Bethesda
Meanwhile, in Nieu-Bethesda, the community staunchly opposed the proposed name change, emphasising the town's identity and heritage.
The meeting was halted before discussions started to clarify that attendees were present to vote, not engage in legal or alternative viewpoints.
A member of the meeting emphasised the biblical origins and global recognition of Nieu-Bethesda's name.
The hearings highlighted the complexity of the ongoing debate.
As communities grapple with questions of identity and representation, the path forward remains uncertain.
However, amid the controversy, there is potential for further dialogue and contention in pursuit of a shared vision for the region's future.