Referee Joshua Bondo is amongst prominent sportspeople who have raised their hands for political office, come October 2024.
Bondo is seeking a council seat in Selebi-Phikwe on the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) ticket for primary elections.
Bondo recently retired from handling matches after the end of his CAF suspension for reporting incidences. Former Zebras and BDF XI striker, Mokgathi ‘Pro’ Mokgathi is in the hat for the BDP primaries in Sefhare, while Tshepiso ‘Sox’ Molwantwa, a goal-scorer of note during his playing days, will represent the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) for a council seat in Mahalapye. Retired Township Rollers defender, Aaron ‘Route 4’ Radira wants to represent the ruling party as a Member of Parliament for Mogoditshane East.
Former Botswana Football Association (BFA) vice president, Marshlow Motlogelwa, is eyeing a parliamentary seat under the BDP in Lobatse, while Dikgang Makgalemele who was the BFA president between 2004 and 2008, is seeking a parliamentary comeback. Boxing promoter, Thuso ‘Scud’ Khubamang is already a councillor in Ledumang, Gaborone.
Former boxer, Thebe Setlalekgosi, is amongst aspirants for the Mahalapye East parliamentary seat under the BDP. Former karate, swimming, and football administrator, Ookeditse Malesu, is contesting in Gaborone Bonnington North. Sports commentator, Tiroyaone Lepotokisi makes his debut challenge as he looks to unseat Thamaga-Kumakwane legislator, Palelo Mataosane. Former sports presenter, Tumiso Rakgare, made it to Parliament and Cabinet when he won the Mogoditshane constituency in 2019. He is seeking re-election.
The large presence of politicians with a sports background in local government and the National Assembly could bode well for sport development in the country, amplifying the sector's issues.
