Things fall apart at softball
Calistus Kolantsho | Saturday April 6, 2024 06:00
The incumbent president, Katlholo Mosimanegape,, and his secretary-general, Nozie Malunga Payet, have shown interest in remaining on the committee. Payet wants to return as public relations officer (PRO) while Mosimanegape wants to retain his position. Former president, Tirelo Mukokomani has also raised his hand for the presidency.
The vetting process by the elections committee is expected to be finalised over the weekend. The current office bearers face stiff resistance from affiliates who feel there has not been much progress in the game. Vice president, Badika Mosweu, is accused of missing in action while the technical development officer (TDO), Gontlafetse Batsetswe, resigned in December. Bobby Khupe from the northern zone told MmegiSport that as affiliates they have not been informed about Mosweu's absence. “There was nothing, [not] even a phone call to inform us about the absence of the vice president.
We thought he was present. Maybe he was just not productive. I am only learning about his absence from you. We were only informed about the resignation of Batsetswe,” he said. Khupe said it means the executive committee does not form a quorum and they do not have the power to call for elections. He said the only thing the committee could do is request permission in writing from affiliates for elections to be held. He said softball is a technical sport and the role of the TDO is important. But Payet clarified that Mosweu has not gone AWOL. “I do not understand why affiliates are saying Mosweu is missing in action. He was present during the last OGM unless they want him for something specific,” she said. One softball member, Thabang Keorapetse, said Mosimanegape should not run for elections, as his leadership has proven to be ineffective and has caused a decline in the performance of softball.
“When the incumbent committee came into office, I anticipated that they would improve on the previous committee’s performance, especially since 90% of them have the experience of playing softball and understand its requirements better than someone who is not familiar with the sport,” he said. When asked about softball losing sponsors, Keorapetse said according to his understanding, the situation is about the mishandling of funds and lack of transparency. He revealed that BoFINET requested BSA to create both the major and minor leagues to enhance competitiveness, but the committee did not consent.
“The fact that the BSA president is a civil servant is well-known, so it is improbable that any CEO will be open to negotiating with someone of his status.
Thabo Thamane and Masego Kwape possess the requisite leadership qualities to guide the association in the right direction,” Keorapetse said. He said on the day of voting, delegates should elect individuals demonstrating extensive leadership experience and a proven track record, rather than simply choosing their friends and later expecting exceptional outcomes to materialise. When asked about the status of the National Diamond, which is dilapidated, Payet told MmegiSport that maintenance will start soon. Meanwhile, there has been a rift regarding the usage of the National Diamond by the Botswana Softball Masters Association (BOSMA) for a fundraising tournament.
Payet said BOSMA is part of BSA and can use the facility provided they pay a fee of P1, 000 just like BSA clubs.
Nominees list: President: Mosimanegape and Mukokomani Vice president: Letsweletse Jonas Secretary-general: Same Tshelametse Treasurer: No nominees TDO: Abel Mataboge, Godson Motsumi, and Romeo Tshelametse Competitions: Justin Kuswane PRO and marketing: Payet