29 Jun 2014

Ntlo ya Dikgosi meeting has adopted a motion calling for the creation of a post of deputy permanent secretary (DPS) for affairs affecting dikgosi.

When tabling the motion, Kgosi Thabo Masunga of North East Region said although he was not opposed to the existing arrangement, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development had not afforded dikgosi equal and fair treatment in terms of resources and growth.

Kgosi Masunga argued that even in the 21^st century, bogosi had not been given time to grow, adding that the current structure did not give it the opportunity to grow and flourish as desired by both government and dikgosi.

Bogosi fell under the ministry of local governance, together with councils whose focus is on the development of the rural economy.

Kgosi Masunga said a deputy permanent secretary responsible for tribal administration would champion the needs of bogosi. He said the Department of Tribal Administration receives insufficient funding to facilitate the bogosi work while councils were well resourced to carry out their mandate.

He added that bogosi created a heritage for the country’s post-colonial democracy, but that the institution remained under financial recession.

Kgosi Oreagetse Machilidza of Boteti Region said for a long time, bogosi remained quiet, thinking that something positive would be done for it but nothing came forth. 

Therefore, a deputy permanent secretary for bogosi affairs would improve the situation. 

The proposed dispensation, he said, would enhance service delivery.

Kgosi Kea Lempadi of the Okavango Region said a deputy permanent secretary for tribal administration would bring to an end the situation where the department’s funds were almost always diverted to the district commissioner’s office or the council.

Kgosi Kgomotso Boiditswe of Serowe Region said delays that were a norm in tribal administration would come to an endSpecially elected Kgosi Mwakaupika Seemeko from Etsha 6 said issues such as the replacement of a headman of arbitration would be addressed in no time.

Supporting the motion, Kgosi Kegaisamang Ramokwena of Maun Region said it was disheartening to learn that at times a kgosi was appointed to the position of headman of arbitration at age of 25 and serve in that capacity until age 80. 

He added that dikgosi did a lot of work regardless of their grade as sometimes even the High Court ordered that they divide the estate of warring families. ENDS