27 Nov 2014

Nominated councillor, Mr Mephato Reatile is the new Southern District Council chairperson.

He was elected on November 26 during the district’s special full council session. Mr Reatile of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) garnered 45 votes against Councillor Kagisanyo Tau of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) who got 17 votes.

The vice chairperson position went to another nominated councillor, Mr Alec Seametso who was elected by 46 councillors. Mr Seametso beat UDC councillor for Gathwane/Mogojogojo ward, Mr Beach Mooketsane who got 16 votes.

Presenting his acceptance speech, Mr Reatile, who is former Member of Parliament for Jwaneng/Mabutsane constituency, said as part of the council’s vision for long term development, particular attention would be placed on the assessment of existing developments.

He said the vision would consider the need for social and economic advancement of all disadvantaged sections of the community. “The challenge is clear, we have to develop our district and I’m looking ahead to my years of office as chairperson.” 

He emphasised the need to involve communities in its affairs and to provide services in a financially sustainable manner all in the name of development.  For this to be feasible, the new chairperson said council was obliged to establish mechanisms for public participation and participatory governance. 

For all these efforts to bear fruit, Mr Reatile called on all role players to develop good working relations. ENDS