29 Apr 2014

The MP for Francistown South, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi has told members of his constituency that Parliament has passed the Married Persons Property Bill.

Addressing a kgotla meeting at Block 9 on April 24, Mr Mmolotsi said initially, the married persons’ property bill did not enable married persons to change their minds if married in community of property to change to out property.

He said couples were forced to divorce first and re-marry, something which proved to be difficult. The MP said married couples were now allowed to change that aspect of marriage (changing from community of property or vise versa) without having to go through a divorce.

Mr Mmolotsi said couples should have a clear understanding of whether they wanted to marry in community of property or out of community of property before they got married.

On other issues, the MP said the Omang office had now opened for citizens to be able to make applications of Omang and birth certificates without any penalty for those who failed to do so in time.

He said the penalty was withdrawn from April this year until April next year. He therefore, urged residents to use that opportunity to go and apply for Omang and birth certificates.

Mr Mmolotsi also mentioned that of the 26 000 youth who applied for Tirelo Setshaba, 15 000 had since been allocated to different government departments. One resident, Masego Gaedupelele accused the construction company engaged in the Tonota/Francistown road of failing to hire them.

Another resident, Mr Mogae Mponang complained of lack of development in their area, stating that recreational facilities in their area were out of shape and not being used effectively.

He also said there were no recreational grounds where their children could play and that their area does not have any open space that they could use for such activities

Mr Mponang further appealed to the MP that they want a primary school in their area so that their children would not have to cross the busy roads in order for them to reach schools in other areas.

The residents also complained that social workers fail to conduct proper assessments for the Nyeletso Lehuma programme.

Responding to residents ‘s comments, Mr Mmolotsi said that he promises to visit the construction company that is doing the Tonota/Francistown road and enquire about their recruitment policy.

He also said he is aware of lack of developments in their area, but insured them that the Francistown City Council is busy developing and maintaining recreational parks hence, soon, all parks will be in good condition.

The MP also urged residents to work with their Ward Development Committees (WDC) in order to help bring developments to their area.

On other issues, Mr Mmolotsi revealed that the crime prevention programme is lacking behind because residents failed to register for the volunteer programme with the police and the police have since stopped it in their area. He urged residents to help fight crime in the area and volunteer so that the police can re-introduce the programme. Ends