Gaborone Mayor boycotts Africa Youth Games opening ceremony
Dumisani Ncube | Friday May 23, 2014 13:22
The mayor stated that he decided to boycott the event because he was not included in the programme to do the opening remarks and welcome the visiting delegation. He told Mmegi that he received the invitation.
“As the first resident of the city it is my duty to welcome visitors in my city,” said Nkaigwa. He also said arrangements had been made with the Botswana Africa Youth Games Organising Committee (BAYGOC) that he will be the one welcoming the visiting delegation at the event.
He mentioned that in sporting events such as the Africa Youth Games the mayor of the city is the one who is supposed to welcome the delegation.
“I believe that the government is behind this whole incident, BAYGOC has nothing to do with this,” said the mayor.
He also said the government should learn to respect opposition politicians and their official offices.
Nkaigwa stated that at the moment he has decided not to take any action rather than boycott.
BAYGOC marketing and outreach manager Tebogo Disele referred all Mmegi questions to the BAYGOC CEO Tuelo Serufho but his cellphone went unanswered.
The games, dubbed 'Gaborone 2014' started last night and will end on May 31.