Parly's poor performers
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Monday August 30, 2021 09:46
While the 12th Parliament is still on, this list looks at MPs from both the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) and the opposition who have underperformed.
SIMON MOABI MAVANGE (TATI WEST)
The former BDP youth chairperson has so far performed dismally. A lot was expected from him as a young and energetic MP, unfortunately he has failed to provide that spark to the BDP backbench. He seems not so conversant with issues and appears out of place. Maybe the lack of experience is to blame for his performance, but he should know that his constituents are watching, and this could have a serious impact on his young political career for good.
TSHOGANETSO FRICTION LEUWE (TAKATOKWANE)
Whilst the BDP legislator has chipped in with a few questions, he makes the list of poor performers. Leuwe started off brilliantly but his contributions have gone down. He comes from one of those lesser-developed constituencies and as such he is expected to rise to the floor more frequently and consistently advocating for their people’s needs. However, he has the potential to improve with time.
KGOBEREGO NKAWANA (SELIBE-PHIKWE EAST)
Unlike his colleague, Dithapelo Keorapetse from Selibe-Phikwe West, Nkawana has not done enough. After wrestling the constituency from the ruling BDP, it was expected that he would bring more impetus to Parliament and stake his claim to the constituency through sound representation. However, he is yet to show that he really deserves to be the area MP in the next Parliament. There is a lot to talk about from his area, which has been badly affected by the closure of the BCL Mine. He has been very quiet for someone who made history when he became the first opposition MP to win the constituency from the ruling party.
AUBREY LESASO (SHOSHONG)
Whether he was slowed down by his move from the Botswana National Front (BNF) to the BDP, Lesaso has become very lethargic. Before he crossed the floor, he looked like he would provide the requisite firebrand that the opposition bloc needs in the House. If it was part of the deal that he should not speak much once he is on the other side, he should remember that he still has a constituency to represent. He is one of those who are very articulate and conversant with issues, but has failed to live up to his reputation since joining the ruling BDP. His performance leaves a lot to be desired.
TSHEKEDI KHAMA (SEROWE WEST)
The Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) legislator is one of those who have not given their best this term. He is highly capable, and on his day, he can be a nuisance to government with his line of questioning. He was expected to lead the other two MPs from his party and show them the way, but he has been very quiet.
IGNATIUS MOSWAANE (FRANCISTOWN WEST)
Notwithstanding the personal challenges he went through in the recent past, Moswaane has not been himself since he crossed the floor to join the opposition Botswana People’s Party (BPP). One of the best performers in the previous Parliament as a BDP backbencher alongside Polson Majaga, Moswaane has simply deflated. It wasn’t just about him being visible but also about the quality of his debates and line of questioning. He was very articulate and never shied away from breaking ranks with his party when he did not agree with them on a certain matter. Many people may agree that we are missing that in the 12th Parliament.
LIAKAT KABLAY (LETLHAKENG/LEPHEPHE)
Kablay is one of the MPs who are not always that conversant with issues but would always have something to say. He has always been very outspoken especially on issues that directly affect his constituents. However, during the 12th Parliament, the BDP chief whip has been somehow very quiet.