22 Aug 2024

 As part of the ongoing Radio Botswana  ongoing parliamentary debate, parliamentary candidates for the Palapye constituency  yesterday gathered at Lotsane Senior Secondary School in a bid to win over voters.

The contest for the constituency includes  candidates from five political parties; Botswana Congress Party (BCP), Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Botswana Republican Party (BRP), and Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD), as well as an independent candidate.

The candidates’ presentations highlighted the various approaches each party is willing to take to address the challenges facing Palapye, setting the stage for a competitive election season ahead

During the debate, candidates voiced their concerns about pressing local issues such as unemployment, inadequate road infrastructure, and the construction of a new hospital in Palapye, all of which they promised to address if elected.

BCP candidate Mr Gape Motswaledi emphasised that Palapye should be at the forefront of infrastructural development, considering its central location. He argued that the town should be economically thriving, capable of attracting businesses in various sectors, including trade, arts, and hospitality.

Mr Motswaledi criticised the ruling party for failing to utilise local resources, particularly a mine in the area that he believes could significantly enhance the economy. He vowed to leverage this resource to lift residents out of poverty.

BDP’s Ms Kungo Mabogo expressed her concerns over the high unemployment rates among the youth and the slow implementation of government programmes. She highlighted various initiatives by the BDP designed to improve the livelihoods of residents.

UDC candidate Mr Onneetse Ramogapi stated that the current economic challenges facing the country were a direct result of the BDP’s governance. He pointed to issues like land shortages, subpar education, and inadequate health services, urging voters to support the UDC’s targeted programmes aimed at addressing these challenges.

BRP’s Mr Moiseraela Goya identified unemployment, particularly among the youth and women, as the major issue in the Palapye constituency. He pledged to prioritise health services, wage improvement, and road development if elected.

While BMD candidate Mr Timothy Monyatsi appealed to Palapye constituents, promising to address unemployment, enhance health services, and focus on better resource allocation. Independent candidate Mr Guy Mollentze concluded by expressing his readiness to serve the community effectively if given the opportunity. ENDS