Gayton McKenzie accused of misleading South Africans

The Democratic Alliance has accused Minister Gayton McKenzie of misleading South Africans about the name changes of prominent cities and towns.

McKenzie has served as Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture in the Government of National Unity since July 2024.

He recently signed off on the change of 21 names, including Graaff-Reinet to Robert Sobukwe Town and East London to KuGompo City.

He also approved changing Aberdeen to Xamdeboo, Adendorp to KwaMseki Bishop Limba and Nieu-Bethesda to Kwa Noheleni.

This followed recommendations from the South African Geographical Names Council (SAGNC).

According to the Ministry, the changes are part of efforts to transform South Africa’s naming landscape, promote social cohesion, and recognize diverse heritage by moving away from colonial-era names.

Samantha Graham-Maré, the party’s leader for the Dr Beyers Naude constituency, said McKenzie misled the people of the Eastern Cape.

“A year and a half ago, he told the media that he was not approving the name changes for Graaff-Reinet and that there were bigger issues that needed attention,” she said.

She said the DA recognises the importance of restoring historical dignity and acknowledging the contribution of liberation figures.

“South Africa’s past demands honest reflection, and naming can play a role in that process,” she said.

“However, this must be accompanied by lawful process, meaningful consultation, and transparent decision-making.”

She said her party is deeply concerned about how the latest round of geographical name changes has been handled.

“In 2024, McKenzie indicated that he had rejected the application because there was insufficient evidence that the public’s concerns had been considered,” she said.

Graham-Maré raised the question of what has changed between 2024 and McKenzie’s decision to sign off on the latest name changes.

The government claimed that public consultations were conducted. However, she said feedback from local stakeholders suggests otherwise.

“Many affected parties report feeling sidelined, unheard, or informed only after key decisions had already been made,” she said.

In response to the DA’s accusations, McKenzie accused them of spreading “blue lies” and ‘specialising in misinformation’ about anything related to the Patriotic Alliance (PA).

He stated he would provide documentation of the process. His spokesperson did not respond to further queries from Newsday. Comment will be added if received.

Public participation is crucial

Graham-Maré said that public participation around issues like name changes cannot be reduced to a procedural formality.

“Genuine consultation requires openness about proposals, clarity on motivations, and transparency around submissions received,” she said.

She added that there should be evidence that community input meaningfully influenced outcomes.

The chairperson of the SAGNC, Johnny Mohlala, has told communities that objections are premature until names are gazetted.

“This approach undermines democratic accountability and conflicts with the principles of procedural fairness set out in the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act,” she said.

These name changes carry operational and economic consequences, including forcing small businesses to rebrand.

Tourism operators must update marketing materials, and critical systems such as emergency services and property records require updates.

“Despite this, there is no evidence of implementation cost projections, timelines, or support measures. This lack of transparency is unacceptable,” she said.

“Transformation should strengthen social cohesion, not create uncertainty or resentment. Historical recognition must be matched by responsible governance.”

She said McKenzie and his department have underestimated the importance of inclusive governance and the expectation of communities to be heard.

“Residents of Graaff-Reinet and across the Eastern Cape deserve answers, documented consultation outcomes, and a process that respects their rights,” she said.