17 Jul 2014

The Member of Parliament for Ngwaketse South, Mr Mr Peter Siele says he will remain both a staunch supporter and loyal member of Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) despite his loss during the party’s primary elections.

Mr Siele was speaking during the launch of the BDP parliamentary candidate for Thamaga/Kumakwane constituency, Mr Tshenolo Mabeo and eight of his councillors inThamaga on July 12.

He dismissed as untrue recent media reports that he was a frustrated man since his loss to Dr Alfred Madigele during Bulela Ditswe. He said losing the parliamentary seat had not in any way frustrated him and advised fellow democrats to discard such allegations which aimed at causing animosity among fellow democrats.  

Mr Siele called for unity to ensure victory for the ruling party and advised democrats to double their efforts and close all gaps that could give rivals an advantage.

Botswana’s exceptional quality leadership, he said, had not only benefitted but also contributed to the liberation of South Africa  and other neighbouring states through the then Frontline States, he added.

He said the fact that Botswana was rated number eight in human development index was a clear indication that the BDP government was concerned about the welfare of its citizens.

Mr Siele called on Thamaga/Kumakwane electorates to vote for Mr Mabeo and his team as he contributed significantly in a number of development projects that included among others the construction of the North South Carrier water project and the current Molepolole bus rank, as he is a civil and structural engineer.

The MP for Kweneng South, Dr John Seakgosing was optimistic that BDP was going to retain the Thamaga/Kumakwane constitutuency.

“I am still of the view that the over 18 000 voters registered in this area will give Mr Mabeo a win in large numbers as he is the only suitable candidate with rare leadership qualities,” he said.

 Kweneng District Council chairperson Mr Motlhophi Leo said the council had decided to declare Ramaphate a settlement, a decision which allowedKweneng main land board to regularise squatters in the area.

 He called on voters in Thamaga area not to be deceived by individuals who will politicise the Ramaphate land issue hoping to gain political mileage.

For his part, the Mogoditshane/Thamaga Sub Council chairperson, Mr Driver Motlokwa advised voters to shun individuals who deserted BDP to contest as independent candidates.

“It is important that we rally behind fellow democrats who succeeded as it will be at the best interest of the party which we are all serving,” said Mr Motlokwa.

The parliamentary candidate, Mr Mabeo said he was aware of the bad state of roads in Thamaga and promised that through his expertise, he would influence decisions to have the problem addressed.

He said when elected as area MP, he would help root out social-ills among young people in Thamaga adding that the appalling state of affairs requires concerted efforts by concerned parties. ENDS