I’m going nowhere – Nkawana
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Tuesday June 2, 2026 10:34
The Botswana Congress Party (BCP) has dismissed growing political activity in Selebi Phikwe East, insisting that the constituency remains firmly under its control despite intensified campaigns by the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
Addressing a rally on Saturday in Selebi Phikwe, Selebi Phikwe East Member of Parliament, Kgoberego Nkawana, assured supporters that he remains committed to the BCP and is not swayed by political pressure or financial inducements.
Nkawana said reports and speculation suggesting that rival political forces could influence him were unfounded. He stressed that those familiar with his political journey know that he is not a politician who can be bought.
“For those who know me, they know very well that I am not for sale,” Nkawana told party supporters. “I am aware that a lot of money is being spent in this area week in and week out. However, I am not shaken because the people of Selebi Phikwe understand themselves and know what they want.”
His remarks come amidst increased political activity in the constituency, where various events and rallies have been held in recent months. The area has become a focal point of political attention ahead of future electoral contests, attracting senior politicians and party structures from across the political divide.
Nkawana argued that the frequent activities being organised in the constituency were largely driven by outside interests seeking to gain political ground in the former mining town.
“There is hardly a week that passes without some festival or political event taking place here. Most of these activities are organised by people from outside the area,” he said. The legislator further maintained that political campaigns alone would not address the socio-economic challenges facing residents.
According to Nkawana, what the people of Selebi Phikwe need are practical solutions that can improve their livelihoods rather than political fanfare. He stated that opening party offices and holding rallies would not automatically solve the pressing issues confronting residents, including unemployment and economic stagnation.
Meanwhile, Selebi Phikwe West MP Reuben Kaizer echoed Nkawana’s sentiments and accused the UDC of spending excessively to win support in the area.
Kaizer said the ruling coalition and senior UDC figures, including Moeti Mohwasa, should recognise that Selebi Phikwe has historically been an opposition stronghold.
“The UDC must understand that Phikwe has long been a BCP stronghold. They are wasting resources trying to buy support through weekly activities and events,” Kaizer said.
He added that the BCP would not be intimidated by what he described as the ruling coalition's aggressive campaign strategy.
“We are not going to be shaken by activities that are taking place every week. Instead of spending money on luxurious events, the government should tell the people when it intends to fulfil the promises it made,” he said.
Kaizer further questioned the pace of delivery on several commitments made to residents following the change of government.
He cited concerns surrounding housing for former employees of the defunct BCL Mine, the construction of a new hospital, and other development projects that residents have been anticipating.
According to Kaizer, unemployment remains one of the biggest challenges facing the town, and residents are increasingly looking for tangible results rather than political celebrations.