Kablay laid to rest at the Ramotswa Muslim Cemetery
03 Oct 2024
Mourners, among them President Mokgweetsi Masisi thronged the Ramotswa Muslim Cemetery today, for the burial of former Botswana Democratic Party’s parliamentary chief whip, Mr Liakat Kablay.
The long-standing Member of Parliament for Letlhakeng/Lephepe, succumbed to a short illness Wednesday evening.
In paying tribute to the former legislator, President Masisi said Botswana had lost a towering figure in its political history as Mr Kablay was a relentless advocate for his constituency and a key player in parliamentary strategies by virtue of being a chief whip.
“It is on this very sombre mode that we have gathered to pay our last respects following the untimely demise of our own brother and a compatriot in the BDP political space. I am extremely proud to have elected Mr Kablay as chief whip, the first Muslim and person with disability to execute such a role,” President Masisi said.
President Masisi described the deceased as a politician of note, who had committed his life to serving the interests of his constituents, adding that he had immensely contributed to uplifting the livelihoods of many a constituents and the nation as a whole.
He stated Mr Kablay contributed significantly to many legislative debates over the years, which shaped the fabric of the country’s status.
President Masisi said it was even more heart-breaking that he had signed Mr Kablay’s parliamentary candidacy nomination letter on the afternoon of the fateful day.
He thus called on the nation to unite in mourning the death of Mr Kablay, adding that government and the ruling party were committed to consoling the Kablay family in their time of grief.
Mr Kablay served as a councillor for Malwelwe in 1994 before becoming a Member of Parliament from 2009 until the recent dissolution of the 12th Parliament.
In addition to his political endeavours, he was a farmer and businessman.
He was the prospective parliamentary candidate for Letlhakeng/Lephepe constituency for the upcoming general elections.
Survived by his wife, two children and two grandchildren, Mr Kablay leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service to his community. Ends
Source : BOPA
Author : Thato Mosinyi
Location : Gaborone
Event : Funeral Service
Date : 03 Oct 2024