- NWDC chairman slams Boko’ SONA,
- His predecessor hits back; reminds him of district issues
- ‘direct your energy towards issues that affect our communities daily’- Ntsogotho
Following the North West District Council (NWDC) Chairman, Itumeleng Kelebetseng’s scathing critism of President Duma Boko’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), his predecessor, Kebareeditse Ntsogotho hit back redirecting him to focus on the responsibility of resolving pressing challenges facing the district.
Kelebetseng, a Botswana Congress Party (BCP) had decried that while Boko’ SONA aims to project confidence and a vision of transformation, the speech however largely remains a lofty rhetoric that underplays the significant socio-economic and governance challenges facing Botswana.
The chairman observed that while Boko emphasises progress and achievements, the address glosses over the deep-seated issues that continue to plague Botswana, such as high youth unemployment (38%), rising gender-based violence, and ongoing corruption concerns.
“The narrative of steady progress seems disconnected from the lived realities of many Batswana who still face poverty, inadequate healthcare, and unemployment,” slammed the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) councillor.
But Ntsogotho responded, urging the chairman that instead of focusing solely on national politics and critiquing the president, he should direct his energy towards the issues that affect communities in North West District on daily basis. “Our people expect leadership that acts, not only commentary,” he criticised on his social media post.
The Umbrella for Democratic (UDC) councillor highlighted the need for council to urgently finalise plans to allocate and develop open spaces for youth-led businesses noting that they need opportunities and infrastructure to start and grow enterprises.
He also indicated that the current state of sanitation and waste management in Maun is unacceptable and that immediate interventions are required to restore its cleanliness and dignity.
Ntsogotho also reminded the chairman on illegal sand mining – a practice which he says is destroying environment and livelihoods. “Strong enforcement and community engagement are needed to stop illegal sand extraction,” he advised.
The outspoken councillor added that poor road conditions continue to frustrate residents and hinder economic activity, telling Kelebetseng that his council must prioritise grading and maintenance of internal roads.
Ntsogotho also touched on land allocation noting that, “Land allocation remains a major challenge in the North West. As Chairman, you should lead constructive dialogue with the Land Board to facilitate fair and timely land distribution.”
He also urged Kelebetseng to ensure regular maintenance and repair of street lights across the village by his council.
“The people of the North West District expect solutions, not rhetoric. Your leadership must be measured by tangible improvements in service delivery, infrastructure, and community welfare. I therefore call upon you to act decisively and address these urgent matters with the seriousness they deserve.”
However, some commentators defended Kelebetseng criticising Ntsogotho that he has also failed to address the challenges he raised during his period as council chairman.
Meanwhile, NWDC chairman who is also the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) councillor Boseja North-Matswana concluded his critical analysis of Boko’s address by noting that as the opposition, they must remain vigilant and demand transparent, accountable, and pragmatic strategies that truly address the root causes of the country’s problems, rather than merely celebrating superficial milestones.
