The rise, fall of Chimbombi
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Friday August 1, 2025 10:12
The year 2021 marked a dramatic downturn in his life. First, he lost a legal battle contesting the general election results, a case he had joined with others with the hope of overturning the outcome. The loss came at a steep price: His luxury vehicle was auctioned off, a symbol of dreams slipping away. But the blows did not end there. That same year, Chimbombi suffered yet another defeat in court when his bid to have the government pay his retirement package was dismissed. Just as he was settling into his new role, only six months into his appointment as a Minister, fate dealt a final blow.
His health suddenly deteriorated, cutting short what could have been a promising chapter in his political career. Despite the twists and trials of his journey, politicians from across the spectrum gathered on Wednesday to bid him a solemn farewell, setting aside rivalries to honor his memory and legacy. Assistant Minister for State President, Maipelo Mophuting, said the passing of Chimbombi is not only a loss to his family and constituents, but to all those who served with him in Cabinet, Parliament, and within their beloved movement, the Botswana National Front (BNF) just as well as to all Batswana, for he served the nation.
“Indeed, Chimbombi fought a noble fight. He emerged from what many assumed would be a quiet retreat into retirement and instead stepped boldly back into the national arena. Not for personal gain, but because he believed that Botswana deserved better. It was this deep conviction that saw him elected as Member of Parliament for Kgalagadi South and appointed Minister of Lands and Agriculture,” she said. She also said she had the privilege of witnessing his dedication firsthand.
While in Parliament, she said he was meticulous and thoughtful. In Cabinet, he was assertive yet respectful.
“And within the BNF, he was a custodian of principle, a voice of reason and a heart for unity,” she said. Furthermore, she said Chimbombi reminded them that BNF is not just a political home, it is a moral compass.
According to Mophuting, he often said, “It is not enough to oppose; we must propose. We must pioneer.”
Meanwhile, Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) president Mpho Balopi said, “Our elections bring us together, but as politicians, we differ on ideological issues or directions where we want to take our country. As Batswana, we are peaceful people and we do not hate each other because of political differences. There is no doubt that Chimbombi has done a lot for the country.” Botswana Congress Party (BCP), vice president Taolo Lucas said Chimbombi was distinguished from other Ministers in Parliament as he took his work very seriously.
“You can tell by the way he was even answering questions that he has experience in both civil service and politics. He was a humble man. He contributed a lot to the country’s politics, and he will be remembered,” Lucas said.
Moreover, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) executive director, also former BNF chairperson, Dr Patrick Molutsi said, “My friend, who was also my boss, had played a role in our politics. His politics within BNF were tested most during the election appeals that led to his stuff being auctioned by deputy sheriffs, which was a painful moment for those members. But he was calm about the matter.”
He said the beliefs and values of the BNF require a person who understands the party and loves it, and will subscribe to its ideology.