12 Oct 2026

Political momentum is building in Sefhophe as political parties launch their candidates ahead of Sefhophe Ward council by-election scheduled for Saturday, October 17.

The by-election follows the passing of former Sefhophe Ward councillor, Mr Christopher Motsholapheko, in July. 

With the election date fast approaching, party leaders have taken to the ground to urge residents to exercise their democratic right and elect effective leadership for the ward.

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has called on voters to maintain trust in proven track record.

Speaking at the launch of the BDP candidate, party chairperson, Mr Karabo Gare, encouraged residents to give the party another mandate to serve the community’s interests by backing Ms Same Sekanang-Ditshoto.

“Allow the BDP to take the lead. This political party continues to prioritise the welfare of the people it serves. Throughout its history, BDP has committed to listening to the voices of the community and welcomes constructive advice,” Mr Gare said.

He highlighted the party’s long-standing history of fostering sustainable and inclusive development aimed at improving the quality of life for all citizens. 

Commending Ms Sekanang-Ditshoto’s experience, dedication and steadfast commitment to addressing local issues, Mr Gare reassured voters that backing her leadership would help shape a brighter future for the ward.

For her part, Ms Sekanang-Ditshoto placed public health, safety and environmental protection at the forefront of her agenda. 

She expressed concern over improper domestic waste disposal, thus warned that poor waste management threatened human livelihoods, livestock health and environmental safety. 

She advocated for improved waste management infrastructure combined with targeted community awareness campaigns.

Ms Sekanang-Ditshoto underscored the need for youth empowerment to combat local unemployment.

“Empowering the youth through skills development and talent recognition is a vital step towards fostering economic growth and resilience within the community,” she stated.

On one hand, Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) positioned Mr Leoto Porati as champion for local government and development.

During the campaign, Assistant Minister of Health, Mr Lawrence Ookeditse, launched Mr Porati as the candidate for the BPF.

Mr Ookeditse emphasised that Mr Porati’s extensive work experience and familiarity with local governance set him apart as the candidate best equipped to represent Sefhophe residents effectively.  He noted that strong representation required clear understanding of local governance structures and the capability to articulate community needs through proper policy platforms.

Addressing party members Lieutenant General Gaolatlhe Galebotswe,  focused on internal cohesion, urging members to maintain constructive dialogue and resolve internal disputes amicably.

“Differences in opinions are inevitable within a political organisation, but how members handle them is critical to maintain cohesion and strengthen the party.

There should always be constructive engagement rather than actions that could alienate members and undermine party growth,” he said.

Mr Porati pledged to deliver inclusive, non-partisan representation for all Sefhophe residents. 

He outlined plans to prioritise tailored community development projects and committed to continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure that projects were implemented effectively and in line with local priorities. ENDS