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Basupang’s story of pain and betrayal

Standing together: Basupang and wife, Lere have been through the karate journey together
Standing together: Basupang and wife, Lere have been through the karate journey together

He has always been a prominent figure in karate circles, regarded as reserved and calm. For many years, it has been my wish to have a tete-a-tete with the man who has seen it all in karate but largely remains a closed book. This week, Mmegi Staffer, CALISTUS KOLANTSHO finally caught up with Steady Basupang for a sit-down interview

Under the chilly winter morning weather, I come face to face with Basupang at a local eatery. He indicates that he has been aware of my interest in his story, as we settle down. He believes that he has no story to share, but to me this is an unsung hero in local sport. A fortnight ago, Basupang dropped a bombshell when he resigned from Japan Karate Association (JKA) Botswana. A week after his resignation, his wife, Lere who was the chairperson also resigned.

When asked about the reasons behind his resignation, Basupang takes a long pause, stares into space and says it was no longer worth it.

Editor's Comment
Justice delayed is trust denied

Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...

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