Khama dares gov't
Sharon Mathala | Wednesday April 30, 2025 13:05
Khama has termed the ministerial decision through a letter, an attack on Bogosi's freedoms.
In the letter dated April 16, 2025, the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs wrote to all Dikgosi to caution them that it is unacceptable for Dikgosi and councillors to host official meetings outside established structures.
“It is objectionable for either Dikgosi or councillors to summon each other to meetings outside established structures irrespective of what the agenda may be,” the letter reads.
The ministry further cited concerns over political interference, possibly fearing traditional leadership is being dragged into partisan politics, potentially blurring the critical separation between elected and tribal authorities.
In its warning, the ministry emphasised legally permitted structures of official meetings.
But Kgosi Khama IV, never one to back down, fired off a blistering response, accusing the Ministry of overstepping its powers.
Whilst pundits argue that the government position is to safeguard the dignity of both institutions and avoid deepening fractures between political power and traditional authority, in a particularly cutting remark, Khama labelled the ministry’s interference as “gross intimidation” of tribal leaders.
Through his lawyers, Khama says, “Our client respectfully submits that your letter of April 16, 2025, if intended as a binding instruction, may exceed the lawful powers conferred upon your office under the Bogosi Act and the local Government Act, and may infringe upon constitutionally protected freedoms.”
Khama further reminded the ministry that Dikgosi aren't employees of the government and are not subjected to the Public Service Act (PSA) and that a Kgosi is rooted in customary law and solely regulated by the Bogosi Act.
Reached for comment, Minister Katlhalefile Matshegwa said he has no response to The Monitor questions. Asked if and when he will respond to the letter by Khama. 'It is the ministry's decision to do so,' the minister said.
Further asked if there is any tension between the ministry and Khama, Motshegwa responded, “There is no conflict.” Motshegwa further said he hasn't engaged Khama directly and will do so as and when the need arises.
Reached for comment Khama stated, “it is importsnt to understand the role of chiefs and Councillor’s in the development and welfare of the people they serve . It is a Partnership in terms of sharing thoughts and ideas as part of the regional leadership which would include MPs , DCs etc . It is precisely why chiefs of a certain level are ex officio members of district councils as I am ,as appointed on the 10 March by the same minister to serve on seven district councils which are in the tribal territory . If the make up of that forum is provided for to deliberate on development agendas why can’t there be follow up engagements in between such sessions by the same people as necessary.”
Khama further noted that since taking up the chieftainship officially, he has been working on plans to contribute to development in a few sectors and employment creation.
“And this can’t be done in isolation but to include other stakeholders like MPs, Councillor’s other local authorities, business community, farmers , etc to consult for this purpose . We are not discussing politics but we are discussing with politicians whose mandate is to control and implement policies and programs that develop the nation that chiefs are part of .”
On whether there is brewing tension between the two, Khama responded, “There is no tension between us being the minister and the government and myself, Certainly none that I’m aware of . This is just a matter that needs clarification in our joint efforts to do what is in the interests of people through our respective roles .”