The political situation in KwaZulu-Natal might get out of hand if the government continues turning a blind eye to what is happening there.

The political situation in KwaZulu-Natal might get out of hand if the government continues turning a blind eye to what is happening there.

Premier Sbu Ndebele does not seem to see that trouble is brewing in his province.

Ndebele is aware that he lost support in the province since the unofficial ANC succession debate started.

Now he is trying to impress the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal by proposing that King Senzangakhona Stadium be renamed Moses Mabhida Stadium and the International Convention Centre changed to Chief Albert Luthuli Convention Centre.

When the name King Senzangakhona was put forward, everyone was comfortable with it because Senzangakhona is considered to be the father of the nation.

Is it really necessary to politicise it now? We agreed that we need to ensure that the heroes and heroines "of all community, cultural and political groups" are honoured.

Though it looks as if we as the public are consulted about name changes, the truth is that those in power decide on naming.

Politicising everything jeopardises our democracy at times, because it leaves out people on the ground who are most affected.

As much as we want to preserve our culture and history, we have to be strategic by putting emphasis on delivering the most basic necessities for the people.

Singabakho Nxumalo

Johannesburg