The Guns Of Khutiyabasadi (II)

Previously, it was noted that the Batawana led by Kgosi Moremi II had ample warning of the coming of the 1884 Amandebele pillaging expedition. Moremi was thus able to safely move most of his subject out of the path of the invaders.

When the Amandebele arrived at Toteng, they thus found the village abandoned. But, as they settled down to enjoy their bloodless conquest, about seventy mounted Batawana under Kgosi Moremi’s personal command appeared, all armed with breech-loading rifles.

In classic commando style the cavalry began to harass the much larger enemy force with lethal hit and run volleys. Meanwhile another group of traditionally armed subjects of the Kgosi also made their presence known.

Editor's Comment
Get back what was stolen, and lock the door

That a single private law firm pocketed P6.5 million for just four cases, out of a total P11.1 million paid for 25 matters, reeks of a system that was not merely disorganised but open to abuse.Bayford has taken a welcome first step by telling the Public Accounts Committee the truth. Now he must act decisively to ensure it never happens again and that any money lost to wrongdoing is recovered.The figures are staggering. Whilst ordinary Batswana...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up