Khama magnet misses target in Jwaneng
Tuesday, October 29, 2024 | 1120 Views |
Ian Khama. PIC: KENNEDY RAMOKONE
Reatile was to be launched by party patron and campaign manager Ian Khama in an event scheduled to take the whole day. Unfortunately for Reatile, Jwaneng-Mabutsane residents didn't show up in good numbers. Following his return from self-imposed exile in September, the former president kicked off a national tour campaigning for his party alongside Reatile. The BPF president, Reatile, was initially allocated two full days to spend with Khama in his constituency on October 25 and 26. On the first day, they hosted four rallies in different settlements of the constituency.
From the pictures and videos shared, one could tell that the 'magnet' wasn't as attractive as was expected. It is understood that upon realising the tough task ahead, instead of spending the whole Saturday at the launch in Jwaneng, Mogoditshane was added to Khama's schedule, and he would launch Reatile on Saturday morning. Only a handful had arrived at the venue, which looked like little effort was put into organising when Khama arrived. He briefly spoke to those who gathered and called on them to vote for Reatile and his councillors. It came to the fore then that Reatile is supported by just 11 council candidates in a constituency of 19 wards. Perhaps to avoid embarrassment, unlike in other areas, there were no live videos or pictures from the event shared on Khama's, Reatile's, or and the BPF Facebook pages.
When claims of such gravity are made, especially by a sitting Assistant Minister they cannot be brushed aside, delayed, or treated as routine political noise. Even the Ombudsman has confirmed receipt of a report from a political party and a review of these complaints is now underway. That is a necessary first step. But it is only the beginning. The seriousness of the allegations demands urgency, transparency and clarity. The public is entitled to...