Rari Unopposed For BOSETU SG Position
Chakalisa Dube | Monday August 14, 2017 15:56
Rari who is said to be a favourite amongst BOSETU members was not willing to comment on the elections. He was also not opposed at the union’s two previous elective congresses. As the SG, Rari is tasked with coordinating key activities of the union.
The veteran trade unionist who many have described as the ‘voice of reason’ within BOSETU and Botswana Federation of Public, Parastatal and Private Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU), is credited for improving the visibility of the two trade movements.
Under the stewardship of Rari, BOSETU has also transformed from an ordinary teacher trade union into a movement that accommodates all educators.
He has also been the face of BOFEPUSU since taking over the position of SG in 2012. Meanwhile, after serving for a number of years as BOSETU Francistown region chair, long time unionist Winston Radikolo has now decided to challenge for the union presidency. Radikolo will tussle with incumbent Kwenasebele Modukanele who is in his first term. Already, observers have said that the battle for the presidency is too close to call.
Modukanele ascended to the presidency in 2015 after defeating Caterpillar Hikwama and Shylot Tshireletso at the union’s elective congress, which was also held in Palapye. Mogomotsi Motshwegwa who has been within BOSETU structures for a long time is also said to be a clear favourite in the race for the vice presidency position.
Motshegwa who enjoys the status of incumbency will also face off with another renowned trade unionist Tlotlo Dibeela.
Dibeela who dismally lost against Motshegwa in 2015 will be eager to redeem himself. Dibaakanyeng Seboko will be a dark horse in the race for the vice presidency.
For the third time in a row Innocent Mannathoko will defend his position, as vice secretary general against incumbent national organising secretary, Ompatile Modise. Modise will challenge Mannathoko along with Mothusi Kgaladua. In total, there are 15 positions in the BOSETU executive committee.
The congress will be held under the theme; BOSETU: Championing Educators’ Rights in the Midst of Collective Bargaining Challenges in Botswana.
The union has said that the theme is suitable because its congress comes at a time when the government is constantly making moves to clamp down on trade unions and infringing workers rights.