the monitor

UDC's mounting struggles over 'political appointments'

Kgang Kgang. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG.
Kgang Kgang. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG.

The ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) is beginning to make its presence felt albeit gradually within politically appointed boards.

This shift has not been without controversy. Last Friday, Kweneng Land Board Chairperson and President of the Botswana Tribal Land Authority (BATLA), Kgang Kgang, was suspended for alleged abuse of office pending investigations. Whilst the UDC holds power, many key political appointments remain in the hands of Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members, a lingering frustration for the ruling party and its supporters. Most of these appointments are set to expire by the end of this year or the next, leaving the UDC eager to establish its authority.

Confirming the suspension, Kgang told The Monitor on Monday: “It's true, I received my suspension letter on Friday.” According to him, the letter lacked substantial details and he understands it stems from a complaint by one community. He expressed surprise noting, “It's shocking that the community is complaining about me when I have never received any complaints from them.”

Editor's Comment
Human rights are sacred

It highlights the need to protect rights such as access to clean water, education, healthcare and freedom of expression.President Duma Boko, rightly honours past interventions from securing a dignified burial for Gaoberekwe Pitseng in the CKGR to promoting linguistic inclusion. Yet, they also expose a critical truth, that a nation cannot sustainably protect its people through ad hoc acts of compassion alone.It is time for both government and the...

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