Another cllr opts out of civic politics

CHAKALISA DUBE
Staff Writer | Thursday June 20, 2013 00:00

 

I want to focus on my personal businesses and I believe that should I contest the elections and win, it has the potential to disturb my businesses. I do not want to disclose the kind of venture I will be going into because the plan is still in its infancy. I also believe that I have done my part as a councillor and have to pass the baton to others,' the first term councillor told Mmegi this week. The announcement may come as a shock to many political pundits because he has applied to contest the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) primaries. Matseka said he is yet to inform Somerset East residents or the BDP about his sudden decision not to defend his seat.  He said he would make a public pronouncement after the party's much anticipated elective congress to be held early next month in Maun.

The pint-sized civic leader remained reserved amid the hullabaloo that characterised the council chambers and said that he will be withdrawing his application to contest the BDP primaries. Although he did not disclose the kind of venture he will be going into, it is understood the councillor wants to start a cosmetics manufacturing business. Reports say he will partner with a reputable South African cosmetics manufacturing company.

Matseka is the fourth Francistown councillor to opt out of the civic race in next year's general elections. Controversial former mayor, Ignatius Moswaane of Monarch South has already stated his intentions to go for Francistown West parliamentary seat held by Tshelang Masisi. BDP's Stanley Masalila will also not defend his Tati Town council seat. So is Itekeng's Professor Lazarus Tlou of the Botswana Congress Party (BCP). Tlou is also eyeing the Francistown West parliamentary seat. Ikageleng councillor, Tabengwa Tabengwa of the BCP is also reportedly toying with the idea of quitting active politics.