Mmegi

Keorapetse’s third term bid

Having entered politics at a young age, Dithapelo Keorapetse has now reached a pivotal moment in his career as he seeks a third term in Parliament.   PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Having entered politics at a young age, Dithapelo Keorapetse has now reached a pivotal moment in his career as he seeks a third term in Parliament. PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

Having entered politics at a young age, Dithapelo Keorapetse has now reached a pivotal moment in his career as he seeks a third term in Parliament.

This decision rests squarely on the residents of Selebi-Phikwe West constituency, who will determine whether he deserves another chance to represent them. They must consider whether Keorapetse has truly advocated for their interests during his term of office. The strength of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), the political party under which he is contesting, will also play a crucial role in this election. While Keorapetse has proven himself as an effective representative, the party he aligns with lacks significant support in that region. The dominant political forces in Selebi-Phikwe West are the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) and the Botswana Congress Party (BCP). Nonetheless, history shows that a candidate can triumph even from a weaker party. It is not uncommon in Botswana for voters to defy party lines and make independent choices at the ballot box.

Keorapetse's journey began at the age of 17 when he became involved in activism, laying the foundation for his political aspirations. Now, as he faces this critical juncture, both his past achievements and the current political landscape will be tested in the upcoming election. What Keorapetse is aspiring to see most is Botswana, which reaches democratic consolidation with strong independent institutions. “I’d like to see this beautiful country transform economically where its economy works for all, creates adequate jobs, reduces poverty and inequalities, promotes citizen empowerment and honours the dignity of work. Like Nelson Mandela once said, it is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve,” he said in an interview. When asked about the role of a Member of Parliament (MP) and his performance in Parliament, Keorapetse said an MP does three things primarily; making in terms of Section 86 of the Constitution, oversight in terms of Section 50 and representation. “I have presented eight members private Bills, a few motions and hundreds of questions and have debated all major policy proposals,” he said.

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