15 Jun 2025

Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Kgotla Autlwetse was laid to rest in Serowe on June 14. 

Mr Autlwetse, 76, succumbed to illness on the June 3 at Gaborone Private Hospital. Among those who braved the cold Saturday morning to pay their last respects included the Minister for State President Mr Moeti Mohwasa, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Ms Helen Manyeneng, Botswana Democratic Party president Mr Mpho Balopi, former president Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, former vice president Mr Slumber Tsogwane and former ministers.

Serowe District Commissioner, Ms Angelina Leano read a message of condolences from acting President Mr Ndaba Gaolatlhe who described  Mr Autlwetse was an accomplished political leader, an educator and great Setswana orator of note. He said Mr Autlwetse was principled and selfless statesman who served the nation with grace, intelligence and dignity and left an intelligible mark on the institutions he helped shape. 

Other speakers, his sister in law Ms Beauty Autlwetse, his nephew Mr Lesego Selotate, his son Mr Kabelo Kgwaneng and daughter Ms Tirelo Autlwetse said Mr Autlwetse was a devoted family man and a formidable cattle farmer. They described him as the cornerstone they turned to in times of uncertainty and his generous spirit, unwavering love and guidance left an undeniable mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Former president Dr Masisi said Mr Autlwetse was a true leader and a servant to the people. He said he was humble, and his calibre was unmatched. Mr Guma Moyo said even though they supported different political parties, this was not a challenge to their friendship. He said his friend was a straightforward person who did not mince words if he did not like something. BDP president Mpho Balopi said Mr Autlwetse was dependable and a unifier. He thanked him for his selfless service to the nation.

Ms Gabalape Autlwetse said she was full of gratitude for the 35 years they spent together as husband and wife. She said Mr Autlwetse was not just her husband but her best friend, confidante and cheer leader. She said his kindness, and integrity were evidenced in everything he did. She said their children grew up in an environment where they were cherished and guided with wisdom and compassion. She said her husband served as a public leader with dedication and humility, always putting the needs of others before his own.

Ms Autlwetse said her husband never allowed public responsibilities to overshadow his commitment to serve the family, as he balanced his duties with grace ensuring that they felt his love and presence. She, however, said Mr Autlwetse’s ability to lead with compassion and integrity was testament to his character and his faith.

Mr Autlwetse started his political career in 1994 which earned him the role of a nominated councillor in the Central District Council, culminating to him serving as the chairperson from 1999 to 2004. In the 2014 general elections, he was elected as a Member of Parliament for Serowe North a role he performed dutifully until 2019.

His exemplary parliamentary service paved way for further ministerial appointments; specially elected member of parliament (2019 to 2024), assistant minister of tertiary education, Minister of Education and Skills Development (2015 to 2016), assistant minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security (2016 to 2018), assistant minister of Local Government and Rural Development (April 2018 to Feb 2022).

He will be remembered as a God fearing principled and selfless statesman who served the nation with grace, intelligence and dignity.  He was revered for his command of the Setswana language, his oratory brilliance, and his quiet sense of humour that endeared him to all, at times to the chagrin of his political opponents. ENDS