06 Jun 2023

A case in which former North West District Council (NWDC) chairperson, Mr Kebareeditse Ntsogotlho and deputy, Mr Lekonne Masoko are challenging legality of their removal from office will be heard before the Maun High Court June 8.

The duo were recently removed from office during a special full council meeting.

They were replaced by Boseja South councillor, Mr Itumeleng Kelebetseng and nominated councillor, Mr Nico Folae as chairperson and deputy respectively.

The case was scheduled to be heard on Friday before Justice Godfrey Nthomiwa following an urgent application by the duo.

However, the court postponed the case following a request from the second respondent’s attorney who stated that he was not available.

Justice Nthomiwa stated that the postponement would give all parties an opportunity to make full representation. He, however, ordered that the new chairperson and deputy should not perform any duties in the given period.

Attorney representing the applicants, Mr Andrew Johannes, said in an interview that they filed an urgent application to challenge the decision of the council on May 30.

He argued that removal of chairperson and deputy from office violated Local Government Act and standing orders, adding that the council meeting was convened without due notice.

However, he appreciated assurance by the court that there would be no undertaking during the period given as both the new chairman and deputy had been instructed not occupy the office nor execute related duties.

Respondents on the matter were North West District Council represented by council attorney, Mr Otsweletse Moupo, while Cllr Kelebetseng would be represented by Attorney Martin Dingake and Cllr Folae promised to engage an attorney also. ENDS