BDP sacks employees

OLIVER MODISE
Staff Writer | Wednesday July 9, 2008 00:00

 

The party has reportedly kicked out three drivers, David Matlhabaphiri, Mabedi Moilwa, Oreeditse Kebinaphati; the executive secretary's personal assistant, Tuelo Ditlhabi, long time party receptionist, Setlhaletso Modumedisi and political officer, Violet Mosweu.

Before the dismissals, the BDP office had a total of 19 full time employees and about 35 casuals. 'Since (Jacob) Nkate took over as the party secretary general things have gone from bad to worse,' said one of the sacked employees on condition of anonymity. 'They have taken control of our party,' added one of the former employees who stated that more heads are expected to roll at the BDP headquarters. She said that the dismissals were done along factional lines. Those affected were believed to be against the triumphant Nkate-Merafhe faction.

Contacted for comment, the BDP executive secretary, Comma Serema, confirmed that some party employees have been sacked. However, he dismissed allegations that the dismissed employees were kicked out because of factional reasons. He said the move is part of the party's restructuring exercise meant to look at staff roles and cost reduction.

He explained that the issue had long been in the party's plans when Daniel Kwelagobe was still the secretary general. 'This is an internal party matter that I cannot comment further on,' he said.

It is understood that the sacked employees had appealed to the party leadership to consider retaining them until next year 2009 general elections. The party Central Committee rejected the request.