The family of Mthokozisi Ntumba, a student killed during a protest in Braamfontein five years ago, has welcomed Johannesburg's decision to rename De Beer Street in his honor.

While acknowledging the gesture as meaningful, they emphasized that the renaming does not resolve their ongoing legal battle against the South African Police Service (SAPS).The family's civil claim against the minister of police remains unresolved due to repeated delays in court proceedings.

Attorney Rupert Candy highlighted that the state has failed to concede liability, with court documents showing a 'bare denial' of police responsibility.Two mediation attempts collapsed due to the state's non-cooperation, prompting the family to seek high court intervention.

The prolonged delays have placed a significant emotional and financial burden on the family, with Candy suggesting budgetary constraints may be contributing to the delays.Despite obtaining a court order for document disclosure and legal costs, the family continues to wait for their civil case to progress.The city has not yet confirmed when the new street signs will be installed.