Mixed response to renaming of Intsika Yethu to Vuyisile Mini municipality

Though opinions vary on some of thename changesin the Eastern Cape, such as KuGompo City, the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality has been renamed the Vuyisile Mini Local Municipality, with authorities saying it is hoped the decision will help spark economic growth in the area. It is also envisioned therenamingwill help preserve Mini’s legacy. The municipality consists of the towns of Cofimvaba, the birthplace of iconic liberation hero Chris Hani, and Tsomo, where Mini originally hails from.

Born in Mhlahlane village, Mini, the anti-apartheid struggle icon and renowned trade unionist, was hanged by the apartheid government in 1964, which sparked an international outcry. Municipal spokesperson Zuko Tshangana confirmed the new name had been gazetted in late December. “The renaming process emphasises recognition of the role played by the struggle stalwart from the Mini family.

“This name change embodies restorative justice in compliance with the South African Geographical Name Change Council Act,” he said. “The process included consultations with communities, the provincial geographical names committee and other key stakeholders like the department of co-operative governance and traditional affairs and the Chris Hani District Municipality.” Tshangana said Mini’s role in the liberation of SA continued to inspire the struggle for justice. “His legacy reminds the community of this area and the rest of SA to [remain committed] to the ideals of South Africans.