23 Mar 2025

Multitudes of mourners from all walks of life converged at Kgaphamadi ward yesterday to pay their last respects to former Ghanzi District Council chairperson, Director Tlharese.

Tlharese, affectionately known as DD, passed away on March 11 at Ghanzi Primary Hospital after battling a long illness. The late Tlharese served two consecutive terms in Ghanzi District Council and continued serving the district in different committees upon his retirement until his demise.

Many speakers praised him for his unwavering commitment, love and exceptional leadership that he demonstrated across all levels in different communities. Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) chairperson, also former vice president, Mr Slumber Tsogwane said it was important to honour the life and legacy of ‘DD’ as he had demonstrated unwavering support and dedication to the party as well.

He said his endless love and services to different communities would forever be remembered, as he said his legacy was of a committed leadership that also promoted unity. Mr Tsogwane said it was proven by his passing that it attracted many people from all corners of the country and even across borders. He said Tlharese’s legacy was a testament that he impacted many lives during his life journey, something that he commended.

Former Minister of Transport and Public Works, also a family member, Mr Eric Molale described the late Tlharese, as a difficult person but with amazing sense of humour, who easily mingled with all people without any form of discrimination.

He called him a socialite, who knew how to organise his wardrobe and even the mode of cars that he owned were left-hand driven, because he loved to differentiate himself amongst others. Mr Molale also said Mr Tlharese performed exceptionally well during his tenure as a council chairperson and implored others to take a leaf from his performance to promote the district to greater heights.

Messers, Johnny Swartz, Rudy Lemcke and Christian De Graaff also acknowledged him for the selfless services and outstanding leadership he demonstrated in their local community. They described him as a socially accessible person as well as a visionary leader who had the best interests of his community members at heart.

The trio decried that he had left a void in the hearts of many community members, but they were hopeful that others would follow in his footsteps to ensure that they fulfilled his aspirations about Ghanzi community.

For his part, Ghanzi District Commissioner, Mr Ketumile Ramotadima also appreciated the late Tlharese for his visionary leadership as he said he was keen to promote the business sector to thrive in their community.

Mr Ramotadima said he served in the Local Level Consultative Committee that was established to deliberate and devise strategies to create a conducive environment for conducting business in the area. He said he was a rare gem who worked cordially with the district leadership to ensure that they achieved their mandate.

Ghanzi MP, Mr Noah Salakae implored Tlharese’s associates and community members to honour his legacy by sharing and implementing his ideas and ideologies to turn Ghanzi into a city.
Meanwhile, five siblings, two children and three grandchildren survive Tlharese. ENDS