The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) Central Committee (CC) has dismissed a complaint in which one of its members, Tebogo Boalotswe, lodged against Baefesia Sango in the North West region. Boalotswe had written to the CC demanding disciplinary action against Sango.
Mmegi has learnt that Boalotswe believes that Baefesia is campaigning for his brother Judge Sango. The latter and Boalotswe are competing for the same North West region chairperson position. Boalotswe alleged that Sango is sowing divisions and insulting fellow members of the BDP in the North West Region.
The CC dismissed the complaint on grounds that; “we accordingly advise that you consider formally lodging your complaint backed with evidentiary and/or detailed record of occurrences with the Regional Disciplinary Committee (RDC) or in its absence the National Disciplinary Committee (NDC).
A copy of the complaint to the indicted (Sango) would also suffice to accord him opportunity to defend himself.” Still, a letter dated February 13, 2024 written by party secretary-general, Kavis Kario stated his complaint refers to Boalotswe’s function as a member of the labour and wellness subcommittee of the BDP. According to the letter, in that regard, Boalotswe was advised that the committee for which he is a member, was established according to Article 33.1 of the constitution of the BDP and the terms of reference of the labour and wellness committee.
Therefore, it serves the specific role to advise the CC on labour and wellness matters and bears no supervisory responsibility over any organ of the BDP or members of the party. The letter states that members of subcommittees are advised not to occupy themselves with the operations of the various branches and regions of the BDP but to apply themselves to the specific mandate of their committees.
It further states that it would therefore be advisable, if resolute, to pursue their asserted concern as a member of the ward or branch or region and not as a member of the labour and wellness subcommittees which is not mandated to deal with disciplinary matters. Kario continued; “we are hopeful that the above counsel may assist to assuage your concerns and regret to inform you that the central committee is not the appropriate organ to deal with your matter.” The elections for the regional committee are expected to be held either on March 9, 2024 or March 16, 2024.
The CC felt that Boalotswe wanted to use his influence as a member of labour committee to block his opponent. Meanwhile, Boalotswe said Sango who is actively a member of the BDP, is sowing seeds of divisions and indulging in disrespectful behaviour toward fellow party members, including himself, in the North West Region.
“I regret to inform you that despite my previous attempts to address this issue with the members of the CC deployed to the region, Sango’s behaviour has only worsened over time. His relentless discrediting and insults directed towards party members have caused significant unrest and turmoil within our ranks,” the complaint letter said. He said it is worth noting that unity and solidarity have always been the pillars on which the BDP stands. Furthermore, Boalotswe said the disrespectful conduct of Sango not only undermines these fundamental principles but also hinders the progress and growth of the party in the region.
Moreover, Boalotswe said Sango’s divisive behaviour threatens to weaken the camaraderie and trust amongst party members, which is vital for the collective success. Furthermore, Boalotswe requested that CC should take immediate action to address the matter and discipline Sango accordingly. “We cannot let such conduct go unchecked as it tarnishes the reputation of the party as a whole. It creates a hostile environment and discourages the active participation of loyal members,” the letter states. However, Boalotswe refused to comment on the matter and referred to this publication to office of Secretary General Kario. For his part, Kario said he will not comment on party internal matters.