Race for Gaborone Mayorship intensifies
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday December 18, 2024 10:31
The election for the two pivotal positions is scheduled for next Thursday, and candidates are already making their intentions known. Mmegi has learned that three contenders are in the running. Leading the pack, according to current indications, is Oarabile Motlaleng, popularly referred to as “Senyolonyolo” in political circles.
According to sources, Motlaleng will battle it out with Jacob Sesupo, and Katlego Morolong. Motlaleng, it is reported, has taken a proactive approach, openly campaigning among fellow councillors. A source revealed: “The party caucus is expected to convene next week, where the candidate with the most support will emerge victorious. However, the party may provide additional guidance to ensure unity among councillors. The leadership has not yet communicated anything to us, but they are likely to intervene if divisions arise. They aim to prevent internal conflicts and may propose solutions that avoid one party dominating all positions.”
Contacted for comment, Motlaleng confirmed his interest, stating: “I bring significant experience to the table, having served three terms in the council. My expertise can help ensure smooth operations, particularly since many councillors are new and unfamiliar with council procedures. Like any councillor, I have reached out to others to lobby for support, which is a normal part of the process,” he said. He also expressed confidence in the support he has received from some councillors so far. On the other hand, Sesupo admitted that while he has not actively lobbied or campaigned, he has been approached by others regarding the position. “I haven’t given it much thought, but if the opportunity arises, I would take it,” he said. Meanwhile, Morolong stated that she currently has no plans to contest. “The caucus is expected to guide us on this matter. If an opportunity presents itself, I would consider it, but for now, I have not approached anyone,” she explained.
Morolong emphasised the importance of party caucus decisions, noting that members are bound to support all resolutions made by the caucus. Meanwhile, in councils such as the Tlokweng District, voting will take place tomorrow as the district prepares for its full council meeting next week. While some councillors have already been chosen, others will be selected during next week’s proceedings. The Tlokweng councillors will be sworn in tomorrow and all council committees will be chosen.
Some of the things that councillors are inducted on include an overview of Local Government in Botswana, establishment and constitution of councils (Local Government Act 2012), functions and duties of councils, council linkage with other local institutions and policies governing operations of the council. Tlokweng District Council (TDC), Senior Public Relations Officer, Adolphinah Sechotlho said: “It is important to induct councillors on responsibilities of the councillors, procedures of comments and questions, code of conduct for councillors, importance of planning and frameworks in council, financing of councils and budgeting amongst others.” Moreover, other councils have already finalised their leadership. For instance, the Central District Council (CDC) has elected Atamelang Thaga as its chairperson.