Karate preps suffer as LOC chair quits
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday May 3, 2019 12:17
Sources said Gaobakwe left after she did not receive her appointment letter from the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC). It is said other LOC members have also not received their letters.
The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Tshekedi Khama launched the LOC last month. Gaobakwe refused to divulge reasons for her resignation when contacted this week.
“I am still involved in karate as a member of the Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) Trust. So I should protect the integrity of the association. My hands are tied,” she said, before referring Mmegi Sport to BOKA.
BOKA president, Tshepo Bathai did not give reasons for Gaobakwe’s resignation but said it was a blow to preparations.
“The LOC was launched a few weeks ago and nothing much has been done,” he said.
BOKA, LOC and BNSC hosting committee had a meeting on Tuesday afternoon where Gaobakwe’s resignation was discussed. The executive committee took a decision to replace Gaobakwe with Dr Edwin Dikoloti who was head of the medical committee. The new chairperson was in the previous UFAK LOC, which was disbanded early this year. Meanwhile, in a bid to avoid leaving BOKA with debts arising from hosting the tournament, Bathai said they have agreed that the LOC cannot deal with suppliers without the knowledge of the BNSC and BOKA.
“We learnt from other codes that have hosted major events before, so we do not want to fall into the same trap. The funds that come from government are sent straight to the BNSC account. The president and treasurer should account for all the funds that are channelled towards the event,” Bathai said. The UFAK Championship is scheduled for Gaborone in July.