Khan – Molepolole, BNF struggle icon
Arafat Khan | Monday July 7, 2025 06:26
His unwavering dedication, personal sacrifice, and organisational brilliance have left an indelible mark on the history of the BNF.
Early political awakening (1994)
In August 1994, the political tide began to shift in Molepolole when Mohammed Khan, alongside his brother Safraz Khan, joined the BNF. They were recruited by their brother-in-law, Cde Lemogang Dingalo Ntime. Cde Khan is the son of the late Goolam Ali Khan (MHSRIP), former councillor of Borakalalo Ward.
That same year, Cde Mohammed Khan welcomed his first daughter, whom he named Tehseen Diphetogo, symbolising “change.” The name itself reflected his personal commitment to political transformation.
The 1994 General Election and impact
Cde Mohammed played a significant role in the BNF's 1994 campaign, particularly in supporting the late Cde Victor Busang (MHSRIP) against Daniel Kwelagobe of the BDP. His entry brought organisation, resources, and momentum to the BNF’s campaign in Molepolole, previously considered impenetrable by opposition.
He established a constituency office, funded operations from his own business (Khan’s Discount Centre), and solicited additional support from the business community. His brother Safraz also ran Khan’s Supermarket (now Choppies).
Political persecution and personal sacrifice
Cde Mohammed’s political involvement angered some BDP-aligned figures in Molepolole, leading to a targeted campaign against his businesses. In a calculated move to break his spirit, authorities auctioned off all his possessions—even kitchen utensils and curtains. Yet, he remained steadfast and unshaken in his commitment to the struggle.
Rise within the BNF ranks
In 1997 he played a pivotal role in Borakalalo Ward’s by-election victory, helping elect Cde Ntime. That same year, Cde Khan was elected BNF Treasurer General, defeating Cde Florence Shagwa.
Post-1998 Split: He became Secretary for Publicity and Information, while his brother Safraz was appointed Treasurer.
1999: Contested the Molepolole parliamentary seat against incumbent BDP MP Daniel Kwelagobe. The BNF campaign team included a strong slate of council candidates.
A memorable moment from this campaign was Master D’s song “One Day We Shall Win,” symbolising the rising optimism.
Financial commitment and national mobilisation
He later founded another business, Fruit King, which he sold to inject funds into the BNF following the 1998 split. He traversed the country with comrades like Reggie Mephato Reatile and Cde Motsamai Motsamai to rebuild and defend the BNF.
7Legal battles and intra-party disputes
During the Palapye factional crisis, he and the late Dr. Kenneth Koma were dragged to court by those opposing the leadership. One incident stands out—when a deputy sheriff (Cde Steve Makhura) served him with court papers just an hour before a Francistown hearing. In a moment of rage, Cde Khan admitted to slapping the sheriff, frustrated by the obvious political targeting.
Though close to Dr. Koma, Cde Khan openly disagreed with him, especially on factional alignments and succession decisions. He often blamed Cde Ntime and Safraz for influencing Dr. Koma during his declining years.
A revolutionary not for sale
Repeated attempts by the BDP to lure Cde Khan with promises of high positions—including ambassadorships and ministerial roles—were flatly rejected. His principles were never for sale.
National leadership roles
In 2001 he was nominated to the BNF central committee.
2003: Appointed secretary for publicity and information after the death of Mareledi Giddie (MHSRIP).
2005: Elected deputy secretary-general at the Ledumang congress.
2007: Elected secretary-general at the Molepolole special congress.
During the 2006–2010 internal crisis under Cde Otsweletse Moupo leadership, Cde Khan was jailed for a civil matter reportedly orchestrated by party opponents. Only a few comrades, such as then Mayor Nelson Ramaotwana and Cllr Kgopa, came forward to assist.
1Upholding unity against crisis
In 2007, while away in India, Cde Khan declared via email his candidacy for secretary-general at the special congress. He strongly supported Otsweletswe Moupo against factional calls for his resignation.
2016 Francistown congress and legacy of loyalty
When Same Bathobakae (MHSRIP) declined to run for vice president in 2016, Khan was urged to contest. He refused to be part of lobby lists, valuing independence and principle. Despite facing de-campaigning by Cde Boko and losing the election by a mere 200 votes, he accepted defeat gracefully. He confronted the President directly, without resorting to media attacks—demonstrating maturity and loyalty.
The unshakable pillar of Molepolole
Without diminishing the collective efforts of the BNF, it is undeniable that Cde Mohammed Khan’s contributions were foundational to the party’s presence and power in Molepolole. His sacrifices, resilience in the face of persecution, financial contributions, and refusal to abandon his principles mark him as one of the true revolutionary icons of the BNF.
His story is not just one of politics, but of courage, conviction, and a lifelong commitment to the people's emancipation.