Reikeletseng chickens out
Chakalisa Dube | Thursday February 23, 2017 17:56
Since last year, it has been widely speculated that Reikeletseng was interested in contesting the ruling party primaries in order to book candidacy for the 2019 general elections. The primaries take place later this year.
“At the moment, I do not think I am the right person to represent the people of Francistown South. I think for the sake of the party, we must field someone who will represent them well. I should not just take a position for the sake of power,” said Reikeletseng, yesterday.
The BNSC chairperson said he had been in constant touch with some BDP members in Francistown and had notified them that he will not contest the primary elections.
Reikeletseng said his focus was on his business interests and role at the BNSC.
“I do not rule out the possibility of representing the people of Francistown South in the future. It is an ideal I wish to undertake one day, but for now I do not want to divide my attention between sports, business and politics,” said Reikeletseng.
He added that he believes that at the moment the BDP Francistown South constituency has so many other people who can represent the party well at Parliamentary level.
Since June last year, a group of BDP activists in the Francistown South has been pushing Reikeletseng to join the race.
Early this year Reikeletseng provisionally agreed to contest the primaries, as he demanded that he be given time to consult relevant parties.
BDP members were reportedly lobbying Reikeletseng to stand because he is perceived to be a strong contender who can successfully tackle incumbent legislator, Wynter Mmolotsi of the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change.
So far, Modiri Lucas, nominated councillors, Zazambi Tuelo and Andy Boatile as well as former Francistown South MP, Khumongwana Maoto are listed as potential candidates for the constituency's BDP primaries.