Ageing BCP politician seeks council re-election
Boro-Senonnori ward Councillor, Kenson Kgaga, has reneged on his previous decision to retire from active politics.
In an interview this week, the 76-year-old Botswana Congress Party (BCP) member says he may just contest for the same ward in the next general elections.
“Just as you have heard, many people have come knocking at my door and some have called me to meetings and requested that I return to council next year to represent them,” explained Kgaga.
Kgaga who doubles as a long serving Chairperson of Botswana Guides Association, further explained that age cannot be an impediment as there are much older politicians who are holding offices.
“The important thing is service delivery and how well you can speak and represent your electorate,” added Kgaga who prides himself in notable developments brought to his ward since his first election in 2014.
“You know that Boro satellite primary school was never on national plan nor the District plan, but I motivated for the school to be built and as we speak it is at roofing level. Senonnori primary school is also on the cards, just to mention the most recent,” added Kgaga.
When announcing his intention to step down two years ago, Kgaga explained that effects of old age including poor eye sight and memory were the main reasons he wanted to hand over the baton.
However asked about these factors, Kgaga explained that his health has improved after he recently underwent surgery.
“I am now able to read minutes from my tablet without any strain and I have realized that I am just as forgetful as any ordinary person out there. Nonetheless I have not completely made my mind on whether I will contest or not but I am likely to. I will disclose very soon,” added Kgaga.
Allegedly BCP has been requesting the outspoken councillor not to retire after the party decided not to ditch the Umbrella For Democratic Change (UDC). In the coming elections, BCP is expected to contest against UDC and the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) and the lime movement is said to be banking on the strength of Kgaga’s political muscle to retain the ward.
Currently, the North West District Council is under the BCP and BDP leadership, with the two parties holding 10 -seats each against six of UDC.