UDC settles for Galebotse as consensus candidate for Sefhophe
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday September 7, 2026 09:26
The decision follows internal consultations at the ward, where three UDC members had expressed interest in representing the party in the by-election. However, rather than proceeding with a contested primary election, the organisation opted for talks aimed at reaching consensus amongst the interested individuals. The by-election comes following the death of former UDC councillor Christopher Motsholapheko and the ruling party is now working to maintain its grip on the ward. Galebotse’s campaign manager, Pabalelo Moseki, revealed that the selection process was conducted through discussions within the ward and facilitated by the constituency committee. “On the choice of UDC candidate for the Sefhophe by-election, there was discussion within the ward facilitated by the constituency committee,” Moseki said.
“There were three comrades interested, and the discussion led to a consensus candidate being Galebotse.” He explained that the consensus approach was part of the party’s democratic processes, allowing members to engage with one another before settling on a candidate who could best represent the UDC in the by-election. Moseki added that the process demonstrated that internal party discussions could be used to resolve differences and unite members behind a common candidate. “This process is part of democracy where comrades engage to reach a consensus,” he said. Meanwhile, Moseki expressed strong confidence of the party’s chances of retaining the ward, arguing that the UDC remains a dominant political force in the area. “Indeed, as UDC we stand a great chance to win the ward, and surely we will win the ward, because UDC is dominant in the area.” He believes their previous performance in the ward has given them a strong foundation ahead of the by-election.
In particular, Moseki pointed out to the work done by the late Motsholapheko during his tenure as councillor, saying his contribution has helped strengthen the UDC’s image among residents. “Our former councillor had done well as a representative of the people. That has given UDC a good profile in the area,” he said. According to Moseki, Motsholapheko’s performance as a councillor could prove important as the party heads to the by-election as residents are likely to assess the UDC based on its previous representation. The UDC will therefore, be hoping to turn the goodwill associated with the previous councillor into continued electoral support for Galebotse. At the same time, Moseki believes the new candidate has qualities that could help him connect with residents and maintain the party’s support in the ward. He described Galebotse as someone possessing qualifications, experience and a record of community involvement, adding that his background has already generated positive interest among some residents. “Galebotse brings with him a good reputation and profile in terms of qualifications, experience, community builder, which has warmed people towards him,” Moseki said.
The UDC’s decision to settle on Galebotse without a contested primary election could also help the party avoid divisions that sometimes emerge when several members compete for office. By reaching consensus early, the party can now concentrate efforts to mobilise voters, strengthening its campaign structures and presenting a united front to the electorate. However, retaining the ward is unlikely to be taken for granted, particularly as by-elections can attract heightened political competition as parties attempt to test their popularity outside the regular electoral cycle.
For the UDC, Sefhophe represents more than simply another ward to defend. The ward has become an important area of political support for the coalition and retaining it would allow the party to demonstrate that its influence remains intact following the loss of Motsholapheko. The by-election will also provide Galebotse with an opportunity to establish himself as the new political representative of the ward and demonstrate whether he can build on the foundation left by his predecessor. Moseki remains optimistic that the combination of the UDC’s established support in the area, Motsholapheko’s legacy and Galebotse’s personal profile will work in the party’s favour. As the campaign gathers momentum, the UDC is expected to focus on presenting Galebotse as a candidate capable of continuing the work started by Motsholapheko while responding to the needs and expectations of residents.
For now, the party’s immediate priority is to consolidate its structures and ensure that the consensus reached during the candidate selection process translates into a united campaign. The Sefhophe by-election will ultimately test whether the UDC can maintain its dominance in the ward and successfully transfer the political support it enjoyed under the late Motsholapheko to Galebotse.