‘Disband’, BNF chair warns factions
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday August 18, 2025 10:00
Speaking to Mmegi in an interview on Wednesday, he said temporary campaign teams formed for the last central committee (CC) elections must dissolve immediately as the new leadership takes charge. His remarks come as traces of past alliances still linger, threatening to divide the organisation and derail its broader objectives.
“It must be understood that all members who were competing are BNF members in good standing, and there is no better one amongst them,” Bantsi said. “The CC is going to treat all members equally, regardless of whether you supported us when we were campaigning for internal party elections or not. The bigger picture is the party, and members must start to respect lower structures,” he said. He also urged members to use proper channels when raising concerns, stressing that the leadership will not entertain issues channeled through bypassing established procedures. By enforcing this approach, Bantsi believes that the party will strengthen internal order and ensure fair treatment for all.
He pointed out that the central committee is already committed to reinforcing the capacity of the lower structures so they become more effective and responsive. Drawing a comparison from other political parties that are currently busy solidifying and reviving their internal networks, he insisted that the BNF must match that momentum if it hopes to remain relevant and competitive.
While his tone carried firmness, Bantsi also extended an olive branch, appealing for unity and teamwork. According to him, the growth and success of the BNF depend on the active participation of every member, regardless of past allegiances. He made it clear that the Central Committee will not interfere in the operations of lower structures or dictate how they handle local matters, provided they act responsibly and in line with the party's constitution. “The party needs all its members for it to grow. We have to unite and work together,” he said.
When asked whether the handover from the outgoing central committee to the new one occurred, Bantsi explained that a flexible, portfolio-by-portfolio process has been adopted. This, he said, was due to the busy schedules for both the former and current CC members.
“We have agreed that each portfolio or position will handle its own handover. We believe they will engage with each other individually,” he said. “The CC has already started work and has met to map the way forward,” he added.
Meanwhile, for the Kgalagadi South constituency's impending by-election, Bantsi said they could have gone to meet with the members of the party, but could not make it. This comes after the recent passing of the area’s Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Micus Chimbombi. The late MP was laid to rest in his home village of Makopong, and Bantsi acknowledged that while burial rites have been completed, due process must still be followed before political activities begin.
Bantsi revealed that the party will soon visit the constituency to officially inform the community about the loss of their representative, even though the news is already known.
“We will go to the family first before meeting the members, as that is the procedure,” he explained. “Afterwards, we will consult with the constituency to decide on the way forward regarding the campaign period and strategy. They are the ones who will guide us on how and when to start,” he stated.