GOOD Statement by Chantelle Kyd, GOOD George Municipality Councillor:
The GOOD Party has officially submitted a motion in terms of Rule 19 of the George Municipality Rules of Order, calling for the renaming of PW Botha Boulevard. The motion, moved by Councillor Chantelle Kyd, seeks to remove the public honour bestowed upon an apartheid-era leader whose legacy is defined by repression and the denial of fundamental human rights.
The continued prominence of PW Botha’s name on public infrastructure remains a painful reminder of a system designed to exclude and dehumanize the majority of South Africans. PW Botha never acknowledged the harms caused under his leadership, nor did he express remorse for the apartheid system he defended.
“Public naming is not a value-neutral act,” said Cllr Kyd. “The names we choose for our streets and landmarks reflect the values we elevate as a society. In a community still healing from the spatial and social consequences of apartheid, it is our duty to ensure our shared spaces affirm the dignity of all residents rather than honouring those who sought to destroy it.”
The motion argues that the current naming is inconsistent with the South African Constitution’s core values of human dignity, equality, and non-racialism.
GOOD believes that ethical governance requires the Council to act as responsible stewards of public spaces, ensuring they promote social cohesion rather than division.
The motion calls on the George Municipal Council to:
- Formally acknowledge that honouring PW Botha is inconsistent with constitutional values.
- Initiate an official renaming process in accordance with municipal bylaws and national regulations.
- Facilitate inclusive public participation, with a specific focus on reaching communities historically excluded from such decision-making.
- Invite new proposals for names that reflect democratic values, social justice, and shared community heritage.
GOOD insists that this process be conducted with the highest levels of transparency. The motion requests that the administration table a comprehensive report on public input and that any final decision be accompanied by clear, public reasons provided to the residents of George.
“This is an opportunity for George to move forward,” Kyd added. “By addressing these symbols of our past, we are making a commitment to a more inclusive, dignified, and united future for every person who calls this city home.”
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