BDP pardons Phikwe mayor

CALISTUS KOLANTSHO
Correspondent | Wednesday April 7, 2010 00:00

 

Mukokomani was suspended for defying the party caucus at the mayoral election. The election became controversial when Mukokomani stood against party-mate, Tebogo Matlhogonolo, contrary to the party caucus agreement.

He made the situation worse by nominating an opposition councillor to deputise him.

Mukokomani, who is also Ikageleng Phase Two councillor, told Mmegi on Tuesday in an interview that he was impressed by what the Selebi-Phikwe BDP councillors said when they made friends.

'They clearly stated that I am working well with them despite the suspension,' he remarked. He said his reinstatement is a blessing to the BDP as the party is currently steeped in the party's infighting. He said other BDP councillors across the country must learn from Selebi-Phikwe in order to save the party.  Mukokomani emphasised that people from outside the constituency instigated his suspension.

'We have fought and it is time for us to move forward,' he pleaded. He said his reinstatement and reconciliation with fellow councillors would bring trust to the electorates and show them that they respect them.

'We did not want the matter to be like in Francistown where it has reached a bad level,' he pointed out.  He also said that there is no factional infighting between the BDP councillors in Selebi-Phikwe. The Mayor welcomed the central committee decision. He said that he could have been expelled from the party because the party president has the right to fire or suspend any member from the party. He also said that there were some people who wanted his expulsion but the leadership did a good job when they handled the case and the councillors also had time to reconcile.

Mmapula Mmidi Phuduhudu, previously resistant, was influenced to agree to the decision.

BDP disciplinary committee chairman, Ambrose Masalila, confirmed that he discharged Mukokomani from any blame after the complainants withdrew their complaints against him.It was not the duty of the disciplinary committee to reinstate Mukokomani, Masalila said.