22 Nov 2021

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has nominated council candidates to represent the party in the upcoming by-elections slated for December 18. 

This follows the party’s primary elections held on Saturday for Moshupa-East ward in the Moshupa-Manyana constituency that fell vacant after the demise of councillor Mr William Masibi and Lorolwane ward in Mmathethe-Molapowabojang constituency that became vacant after the passing on of councillor Sefanyane Tsiripane. 

Nine candidates competed for Moshupa-East ward, while three tussled for Lorolwane ward. Mr Lentswe Mosanako was nominated to represent the party in Moshupa-East ward after garnering 152 votes. 

Other candidates who were standing in the primary elections were Mr Shiny Tumediso with 96 votes, Mr Issaac Matale who garnered 79 votes, Ms Grace Kobua with 73 votes, Mr Tshimologo Motlamme who was voted by 72 people, Mr Joseph Keotshwaetse who got 68 votes, Mr Batlhalosi Tshedifatso with 49 votes, Mr Reuben Baaisi who garnered 37 votes and Mr Batolomi who gathered 26 votes. 

Over 2 000 people had registered to cast their vote at Moshupa-East ward that comprise five polling stations. 

Of the number there were 652 valid ballots, 13 spoilt and 1 385 did not vote. As for the Lorolwane ward, Ms Boitumelo Seakgo was nominated to represent the party after garnering 154 votes. Mr Mogopodinyane Tsiripane gathered 143 votes while Mr Tshotlego Phologolo got 97 votes. 

The ward had 394 valid ballots and only four were spoilt. Returning officer for Moshupa-East ward, Mr Bantlhasetse Merementsi said the elections were free and fair. 

He said most polling stations opened on time. 

Mr Merementsi said there was need to sensitise people on the difference between party primary elections, by-elections and general elections . 

He said those with Omang but without party card or voter card were allowed to vote since the numbers of ID and voter card were the same. 

Mr Motlhophi Leo, the returning officer for Lorolwane ward said elections progressed well and were free and fair He said all the candidates promised to support the nominated candidate in by-elections. However decried the low turnout. 

“Candidates did not have enough time to canvass for votes and campaign for the primary elections as names have to be submitted to the IEC within a short space of time which is November 26, and on the other hand COVID-19 was not helping the situation as it impacted on party structures because they could not convene meetings.” 

Branch chairperson for Moshupa-Manyana constituency, Mr Lebatla Kenosi thanked democrats for coming to vote. He urged all democrats to rally behind the nominees. ends