Some North West District councillors have called for a review of the Constituency Community Projects (CCP) programme, demanding that local authorities have the power to provide key input during the planning process.
While projects are technically determined through consultations involving Members of Parliament (MPs), Village Development Committees (VDCs), and councillors, MPs currently serve as the primary signatories and final validators. Councillors argue this guideline sidelines them, as the ultimate decision-making power rests solely with MPs.
Specially nominated councillor Kebareeditse Ntsogotho stated that while the initiative is a valuable tool for addressing local needs, its administration is flawed. He argued that the current setup excludes councillors, who are “on the ground” and more familiar with community needs than “detached” MPs.
“The system as it stands is wrong,” Ntsogotho proposed, calling for a revision that includes councillors in the decision-making process. He also criticised current project priorities, specifically the purchase of vehicles and PA systems, suggesting instead sustainable initiatives like shops or offices for struggling youth businesses.
“These projects should be sustainable and impactful to lives of people. Other constituencies have built shops that have created employment and improved trade. These are initiatives that we should consider, building offices for youth business as they are currently struggling to pay rental fees,” the councillor emphasised.
Councillor for Tsau- Semboyo/ Makakung, Gaapale Makudunyane also concurred with Ntsogotho advising him to table a motion for the councillors to also have say on the selection of projects.
Another nominated councillor, Kedibonye Kgari also pleaded for the approach of the programme to be changed. “VDC would come up with a project for the community needs only for it be overruled by the decision of a single MP for political gain,” stressed Kgari.
Independent councillor, Moetetse Mogalakwe complained about inequality when it comes to allocation of projects highlighting that from P10 million allocated to their constituency Somelo has only been allocated P300 000 worth project. He decried that this ends up politically disadvantaging those who have sidelines on projects allocation.
“We are from far seeing that MPs are cheating us on issues of priority. Their powers doesn’t mean they should do as they plead like purchasing cars. I agree with those who says the programme should be revised,” added Councillor for Sehithwa-Legothwana, Mmoedi Modiegi
He also complained that bringing the proposed projects before council for debate is a waste of time as final decisions on them have already been taken by MPs.
Meanwhile, NWDC chairperson, Itumeleng Kelebetseng reminded the councillors that the proposal for the programme for the to be revised was recently raised by local authorities across the country but cabinet rejected the request.
“In kgotla meetings people were requesting for the same proposal. I also agree with you that why should they be brought to council when the decisions have already been made decision. The approach should change,” said Kelebetseng who urged the councillors that its high time they engage with their leaders on such issues.
That as it may, the MPs for Maun West, Maun East and Maun North have reportedly decided for the proposed projects of 2025/2026 to be the ones implemented the 2026/27 financial year as the proramme was not funded in that previous year.
