Dikgosi powers a priority for Khama before exit
Tefo Pheage | Thursday December 15, 2016 16:45
Mmegi is informed that he reportedly made the revelations during a recent Cabinet meeting in a discussion.
Although it is not yet clear what powers Khama is hoping for, his statements were reportedly motivated by a question from the Minister of Basic Education, Unity Dow over the progress in resolving the Bakgatla tribal leadership standoff.
Sources say Dow had expressed worry about the time taken to bring the matter to finality, further warning the leadership that they needed to tread carefully and move swiftly. Dow’s 2014 general election loss was largely blamed on the Bakgatla bogosi debacle as it dominated debates back then.
Although he has not been publicly forthcoming about his future after 2018, Khama frequently makes reference to his chieftainship in political rallies.
While it is not known what powers Khama plans to restore, sources say he was insistent on convincing Cabinet on the importance of restoring Dikgosi powers. Dikgosi in recent times, have complained of being stripped of their powers due to the advent of politics, Parliament and central government. Sources say it appears the Bangwato leader is considering retiring to his Bogosi seat.
“It is not clear what kind of powers he is talking of, but it sounds quite significant. The suspicion is that he wants to leave the office with some powers as traditional leader still on his shoulders,” an insider told Mmegi.
Khama was appointed Kgosi of the Bangwato tribe, whilst still serving in the army by his late father, Sir Seretse Khama, in 1979. The ceremony took place at the Bangwato main kgotla in Serowe where Ian Khama wore his military attire. Asked on what the agreement with Khama is, Bangwato regent, Kgosi Sediegeng Kgamane said such matters are “deep” and cannot be discussed with “outsiders or the media”.
“You want to get me into trouble now. I do not discuss my leader’s plans. The time will come when the tribe shall decide on that sensitive issue. I am sorry I cannot field any questions regarding that issue,” he said.
Local Government and Rural Development Minister, Slumber Tsogwane confirmed that plans are afoot to restore Dikgosi’s powers.
“We have consulted Dikgosi on the subject and we are still interrogating their submissions for now,” he said. Tsogwane however did not want to be drawn into discussing “Cabinet issues with the Press”.