✊ WE’RE NOT DONE YET – THE FIGHT CONTINUES!
After the September 10th “stakeholders meeting,” many people walked out of the hall with heavy hearts.
Some muttered, “What’s the point? The decision’s already been made.”
That’s exactly what they want you to believe.
But let’s be clear: we are NOT defeated.
Our lawyer, Mr. Coetzee, is still pushing Mr. Martin to release the official motivations behind these proposed name changes for Port Alfred, Alexandria, and the Kowie River. By law, such proposals must be backed by a formal, public application—not whispered suggestions from the shadows. Yet, Mr. Martin refuses to provide them. Why? What’s being hidden?
We’ve also consulted the same lawyer who successfully stopped the renaming of Graaff-Reinet—free of charge, pro bono. He’s given us valuable guidance on the road ahead. And let’s not forget: a direct appeal has already been made to Minister Gayton McKenzie to halt all new name changes in the Eastern Cape pending review. The tide may be turning.
Meanwhile, PARRA has officially challenged Mr. Martin’s role as Chairman. His published article was biased, his speeches arrogant, and his dismissive remark—“if I appear biased, then I must be doing a good job”—only confirms his unfitness to lead a fair process.
So where does that leave us?
It leaves us standing strong. We will keep fighting.
👉 If you haven’t signed your mandate yet, do it now.
👉 If you’re not a member of PARRA, join today at www.parra.org.za.
👉 If you are a member, log in to the revitalised website to stay informed and connected.
Port Alfred is a beautiful, united town. Alexandria is a proud, thriving farming community. These proposed name changes would do nothing but divide us—they are not in the spirit of reconciliation.
This is not over. This is just the beginning.
Together, we will protect the names, the history, and the spirit of our home.