A controversial memorial: Will a town square be named after Nasser?
The Kfar Manda city council decided to name a square after the former president of Egypt who fought Israel in the Six-Day War, leading to controversy among townspeople and Islamist movement members.
The Arab town of Kafr Manda in the Galilee has decided to name a square after a controversial figure – Gamal Abdar Nasser, who led Egypt during the Six-Day War. The decision, made at the request of members of Hadash in the city council, was accepted despite strong opposition by some residents and members of the Islamist Movement.
The square, which is under construction, is adjacent to the town's main road.
Since the announcement of the square's planned name, a controversy has raged in the town.
Some residents who wanted to sign a petition to withdraw the decision said that "Nasser wronged lots of Egyptian civilians, and he was behind the death of famous religious leader Sayyid Qutb and everyone who urged support of Islam."
Residents said the name must be reconsidered, and suggested the name "Peace Square".
The head of the Islamist Movement in the town, Sheikh Fathi Zidan, wrote on his Facebook page:
"I address this sincere advice to our council, to stay connected and united and account for every step, so that our shared interest will be preserved with brotherhood and harmony between all religious currents and families, the political parties and ideology and political currents. There are steps that could cause controversy between the sides and, God forbid, create a rift between the residents."
Members of Hadash said, however, "We see Nasser as a brave and strong leader. He's a man who brought back honor to his people and made sure to unify them. That's why we want our children to learn about the noblity and the honor he left us with, and to remember him as a just and trustworthy leader, who sacrificed much of his life for justice."
City council head Abdel Halim Taha said in response, "I did not expect this level of criticism. We all know Nasser. We agreed with the suggestion by Hadash members to name the square after the former Eyptian president. At this point we don't know if there will be any further developments. We're gathering feedback on the issue and will handle it as professionally as possible."
