Dipate drops election appeal

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday November 26, 2014 17:15

 

Dipate’s decision comes as the statutory 21 days within which aggrieved parties to the election results can appeal, elapsed on Monday. Yesterday the veteran politician said despite many attempts, Old Naledi police station had failed to provide him with documents relevant to the case, thus forcing the time lapse.

Dipate wanted to be furnished with police evidence and statements of a man, alleged to be a member of the Botswana Democratic Party, who was reportedly caught with voter cards belonging to different people on the day of the election.  “Why should I continue with the matter if police are refusing to provide us with evidence,” he said.

Shortly after the elections, Dipate’s lawyer, Tshiamo Rantao, wrote to Old Naledi Police asking for a copy of the investigation report including witnesses’ statements. 

“Our client would like to have a report on the circumstances referred to above soonest.

“Kindly, but urgently, furnish us with a report, including all statements and other material in your possession to date, on or before Wednesday, 5 November 2014 to enable our client to consider his legal options in terms of Electoral Act,” the letter stated.

However, writing on behalf of the station commander, one Mosireletsi Phologo said police could not provide any documentation, as the case was ongoing. He however did confirm the incident and its facts.  Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral Commission says it is yet to receive any summons in connection to appeals from the election. The IEC is cited as a respondent should the cases reach court.