30 Jan 2023

Opposition parties have been implored to unite and work together for the attainment of power.

Leader of Opposition in Parliament and Selebi Phikwe West MP, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse said this at an Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) rally in Maun on Saturday where he stated that political coalitions had proved successful in some African countries.

He highlighted that as long as opposition parties were divided, they would never unseat the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP).

Mr Keorapetse said it was vital for UDC members to protect and jealously guard the name of the UDC rather than put it in  disrepute.

He stated that for years Batswana had remained poor, a reason why as opposition they advocated that Batswana should be resourced with boreholes for irrigation.

He highlighted that opposition had challenged government to amend some labour laws to favour Batswana giving an example with foreign companies hiring foreigners because they were protected by statutory instruments for positions like artisans that should be for Batswana.

However he said it was unfortunate that opposition had no numerical power in Parliament which he said led to many of their brilliant motions not passed.

UDC President Adv Duma Boko dismissed allegations that there was only one individual who made decisions for UDC without consulting other members explaining that even the constitution stipulated that decisions should be made and passed by the central committee.

He said all the negative talk was aimed at splitting UDC, adding that the party however shall never be shaken.

“UDC is not a company that is owned by an individual but a political party registered under the registrar of societies so don’t be deceived when people tell you the party is theirs.’’

Adv Boko expressed concern over shortage of doctors and specialists in health facilities which he said led to nurses being burdened with work.

He stated that the government’s target of allocating 100 000 plots annually was too small because about 681 000 Batswana were awaiting to be allocated land.

In his welcome remarks Councilor for Sedie ward Mr Kaukapita Kaukapita called for unity within the UDC noting that this was the only way the party could win against BDP.

He said Ngamiland was very rich with natural resources that contributed to Botswana’s tourism, but it was sad because the tourism benefited foreigners more than locals.

“Ngamiland is one district with people living in adverse poverty yet being surrounded by rich natural resources that generate millions for this country and we want that to stop,’’ he said. ENDS