‘Republic of Azania’: ATM proposes SA name change
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has proposed the name 'Republic of Azania' to reclaim national identity and sovereignty.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has formally proposed renaming South Africa to the Republic of Azania, sparking a national debate on identity and the country's colonial past.
According to BusinessTech, ATM president Vuyo Zungula argued that the current name is a relic of colonialism imposed by the British and Boers to further oppress indigenous people.
Why do they want a name change?
Zungula believes changing the name is about reclaiming heritage and national pride. He cites examples like Namibia, formerly South West Africa, which changed its name after gaining independence.
"The country is the name given to them by colonisers. It is an identity. It is your heritage. You can’t expect South Africans to hold on to an identity that was imposed on them," Zungula said.
Not everyone supports the proposal. Political analyst Kenneth Mokgatlhe stated that it was unnecessary and irrelevant, arguing that "South Africa" is a geographic descriptor used by many countries.
He also further questioned the cultural legitimacy of "Azania" as a replacement name, saying it lacks historical and cultural connections to South Africa and its people.
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The proposal will be debated by the Constitutional Review Committee, followed by public hearings.
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