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The rejection was not surprising after the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) whipped its MPs into line against the motion. Initially it appeared that the motion enjoyed support from across the political divide. But after the BDP held a caucus meeting with its MPs, only Selebi Phikwe legislators, Kavis Kario and Nonofo Molefhi were allowed to support the motion. A government task force had recommended Selebi Phikwe as the location for the second university only for the cabinet to overrule it and settle on Serowe-Palapye area.
On Friday, the two Selebi Phikwe MPs voted with the opposition after the Deputy Speaker, Gladys Kokorwe ruled that each MP pronounce his or her position on the motion. She made the decision after Gaborone West North MP, Paul Rantao called for a division, claiming that it was not clear from the voices that shouted in support or against the motion to decide whether it was rejected on not.
There was near confusion in the BDP ranks and those who are known to support the motion walked out of Parliament and never took part in the voting. Both Tshelang Masisi and Ponatshego Kedikilwe disappeared during the voting and did not take part, only to resurface after the process ended.
The BDP won 31-15 with 12 MPs chickening out from the vote.
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