Seretse dismisses allegations on Muslims

KARABO SENAME
Staff Writer | Wednesday September 16, 2009 00:00

 

She said the number of Muslims eligible to vote in Botswana is negligible, hence what happens on election day will have little effect on Islamic activities in the country. She added that not many Muslims in Botswana are citizens and are not going to vote. She said election day on October 16 has catered for those who worship on Saturday, the traditional day of voting in the country.

Seretse was speaking in Tonota at the launch of Peter Williams as Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) council candidate for Tholodi ward. She pleaded with voters to re-elect Williams so that he can work with Pono Moatlhodi who is likely to be re-elected to Parliament. She said the BDP has led Botswana through tough times and moved the country forward. She said these days people no longer die of AIDS-related illnesses in large numbers because of ARV drugs.

'Re mo Kanana, re nwa di ARV rotlhe ka ntata ya Domkrag (We are in the land of Canaan because of Domkrag. We are taking ARVs),' said Seretse. She stated that Batswana will continue to enjoy all these if they vote for the BDP.

She castigated the opposition and the private media for portraying Khama as a dictator.She said that in one of his recent visits to the rural areas, she saw a woman talking to the President while doing her washing. She asserted that this is a sign of democracy.

She said that recently, one of the respected politicians in the world Hillary Clinton, applauded Botswana for its democracy.

Thapelo Olopeng, a businessman-cum-politician shared Seretse's sentiments that the opposition councillors do not work well with MPs from the ruling party.

He said it would be a waste of time to vote for opposition. Another speaker and former councillor for the ward, Saphela Modise said he has no doubt that Williams will be up to the task of taking the problems of his constituents to the MP. He said people should not be worried abut the negative reports they have been getting about the BDP's internal fights. He said in each and every household, there are misunderstandings, but in the end, a solution is found.

Williams pleaded with the voters to retain him as he has already shown his mettle.
'I plead that I be given another term so that I can continue soliciting for developments to come to your area.

My record speaks for itself and once voted, I pledge to continue delivering to your satisfaction,' he declared. Popular musicians Vee, Kast, Scar and Tholodi choir provided entertainment at the launch.