09 Oct 2016

Sensei Jonathan Phiri who was also Assistant Superintendent with Botswana Police in Gaborone was laid to rest in Rasesa over the weekend.

Sensei Million Masumbika from Botswana Karate Association described him as a well-disciplined karateka, who respected himself, his seniors in karate, juniors and colleagues at all times.

Phiri was a third Dan Sensei and highly rated referee at national, zonal and continental levels.

It is said that since he started refereeing, Sensei Phiri made a name for himself within the international karate arena.

Sensei Masumbika said he attended the reputable referee courses such as the world karate federation referee course in Turkey and officiated at the Commonwealth Karate Championships in Australia in 2011.

He was the Secretary for Botswana Karate Association Referees Commission and also Secretary General for Botswana Kofukan Federation Executive from 2015 to 2016.

He said he showed his abilities, strong character and high level of command at most of the tournaments he attended.

Senior Superintendent Matthews Letsholo said Sensei Phiri joined Botswana police service in 1983 and described him as a bold and committed man who should be celebrated for being a true patriot.

He has traversed the country tirelessly serving his nation and has been stationed in different areas like Kanye, Lobatse and Gaborone.  Senior Superintendent Letsholo said he started Karate after joining the police service and dedicated his time to it where he influenced lives positively.

He said his passion driven life yielded him fruits in the force as he was promoted to Sergeant in 1989, Sub Inspector in 1993 and went on to be Inspector in 1996. He said Sensei Phiri was later promoted to assistant superintendent in 2008.

Letsholo further said Sensei Phiri’s commitment and dedication was recognised as he was awarded Botswana Police Long Service and Good Conduct in 2005, Botswana Police Jubilee Service in 2009 and Botswana Police Distinguished Service Order award in 2014.

Sensei Phiri is survived by his wife, son, mother and four siblings. He was born in 1965 and died after a lengthy illness. ENDS