Dikgosi demand bogosi ministry
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Tuesday March 8, 2022 06:00
When making submissions on behalf of ‘Marara a kgaolo ya Borolong’ during the constitutional review meeting at Goodhope on Friday, Kgosi Johane Lesoma of Ramatlabama said dikgosi want bogosi removed from the armpit of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
Lesoma said the traditional leaders want the Constitution to recognise bogosi by also making it the fourth arm of government.
He said this would restore the significance and integrity of the chieftainship institution. “Dikgosi want the name ‘kgosikgolo’ to be legally recognised. They want the name ‘kgosana’ to be removed and banned from being used as it somehow belittles people in that position. There should be ‘kgosikgolo’, ‘mothusa-kgosikgolo' and ‘moemela kgosi’,” said Lesoma.
He added Dikgosi want the government to do away with the system of appointment of dikgosi by a ballot or vote. He said, unlike other institutions, bogosi is sacred and should be respected.
Lesoma said dikgosi want ‘kgosikgolo’ to be given more powers and reign supreme over every other person in their jurisdiction.
Dikgosi have in the past bemoaned how bogosi has been losing its integrity and relevance in recent times due to the unpleasant treatment and recognition signs from the government, especially through the parent – Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development.
Dikgosi have often argued that the ministry has taken authority from them and moved powers to Councils and District Commissioners who often act as the custodians of the Tribal Administration with dikgosi or dikgosana being less involved.
Meanwhile, Lesoma said dikgosi want local police restored to help traditional leaders with policing in their local communities. He said they also want women to be caned just like their male counterparts when found guilty of offences. Currently, the law of Botswana does not allow women to be given corporal punishment. Only convicted males can be caned.