08 Aug 2013

The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development is empowered to fill the vacant seat for both elected and specially nominated councilors within three months of the vacancy having occurred.

Responding to a question in parliament, the Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ms Botlhogile Tshireletso said where a vacancy occurs 12 months before the local government elections, the vacancy will not be filled until the next elections.

She said a nominated councilor who opts to resign submits his or her notice to the minister who consults with the respective District Commissioner.

Ms Tshireletso said the recommended nominee is then forwarded to the ministry for appointment.

She was responding to a question from Francistown South MP Wynter Mmolotsi who had asked the minister to state the procedure followed to replace a nominated councilor who resigns. ENDS