The nominations sparked controversies as some affiliates of the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Party (UDC) accused Motswegwa and his assistant, Ignatious Moswaane of favouritism in choosing the list of nominated councillors. But Moswaane cleared the air last week indicating that he was not corrupt. Members of the UDC raised concerns after some known Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members were prioritised over them. The BDP members who were nominated included Buti Billy and BDP Francistown region chairperson Mpedzeni Sambadani amongst others.
However, in Parliament this week, Motshegwa explained that they have managed to deal with the challenges that were before them. He was responding to a question from the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bobirwa, Taolo Lucas. The MP had asked the minister when the process will be completed, if it is true that letters were withdrawn to prospective nominees, and the criteria used to nominate councillors amongst others. In response to the questions put forward, Motshegwa stated that the nominated and elected councillors are set to be in full operation soon and will be ready to serve the nation. “Councils have been directed to commence their processes in terms of orientation, swearing in of councillors, and establishment of portfolio committees.
“So, where we are now, I think everything is in order for councils to function,” Motshegwa stated. He further promised the public that the process would be completed shortly and should not go beyond this week before the council can be fully operational. “I wish to assure you that the nomination process will be completed shortly. Once the internal processes are complete, councils are expected to be in full operation during the week beginning December 9, 2024,” he said. Addressing the question of whether there was a point and time during the nominations, he recalled the letters he had issued out to prospective councillors, Motshegwa shared that it is all bogus and far-fetched.
“The letters which were written to the prospective nominees for special election to councils have not been withdrawn,” lamented Motshegwa. Responding to Lucas on the question of the criteria used, as the UDC-led government preaches merit, Motshegwa stated the criteria they have are all about inclusivity and making sure all the groups are represented.
“The criteria that the minister used to nominate special councillors include competency, special skills, gender, disability, and youth among others,” he said. In his breakdown of the number of nominated council members, he revealed that there were 29 females, 112 males, nine youths, and three people living with disability. Motshegwa further stated that the number is subject to change. Following the delivery of the answers, Lucas was however not content with Motshegwa’s responses as he reminded him that he took an oath and should be honest. “I want to ask you if indeed you are being honest with us and remember you took an oath to speak nothing but the truth in Parliament so are you saying there was never a withdrawal of letters?” asked Lucas.
Unfazed by Lucas' remarks, Motshegwa remained resolute and stuck to his answers and challenged Lucas to bring forward the letters that indeed show that they demanded the withdrawal of the nominations. “I have no other choice other than being truthful because the questions require me to be and because of the oath. I have never written any withdrawal letters and if Lucas has any of the letters, he should give it to the speaker,” Motshegwa said.
