Independent Candidate advocates for community-driven development
Anthony Sedibo, a 33-year-old independent council candidate for Diagane Ward in Mogoditshane’s Block 9, is pursuing a political path outside the traditional party system.
His campaign centres on community-driven development and economic empowerment, drawing from a diverse background in economics, law, and journalism.
“I have always believed in the power of the people, not the power of the party,' Sedibo said. His vision for Diagane is rooted in creating tangible solutions for the community, emphasising the importance of job creation, education and security. Sedibo’s flagship proposal is the creation of a community trust, which he hopes will manufacture building bricks and interlocking paving stones.
Branded as 'DiagaBricks,' the trust would not only create jobs for drivers, labourers, and engineers but also supply materials for government infrastructure projects. Sedibo sees this as a critical step toward economic empowerment.
'I want to provide practical solutions that make a difference. DiagaBricks is about using local resources to build our own future,' he explained. He believes this initiative aligns with the government’s push to support citizen-led businesses.
Addressing crime in Block 9 is another key pillar of Sedibo’s campaign. He proposes the establishment of a mobile police station and improvements to local infrastructure, including water and electricity at the Kgotla.
'We cannot talk about developments without addressing safety. Crime in Block 9 is a major issue, and tackling it starts with ensuring that basic services are in place,' he said. Education is also high on Sedibo’s agenda. With a new primary school set to open in 2025. He plans to seek corporate partners to ensure the school is well-supported.
He also intends to open a Village Development Committee (VDC) tuckshop near the school to raise additional funds for the community. Sedibo’s personal experience, particularly in his early schooling, has shaped his belief in the importance of a strong educational foundation.
'Investing in education is investing in the future. We have to make sure our children have the best start possible,' he said. Sedibo’s campaign has faced financial constraints. Running as an independent candidate, he competes against well-funded opponents backed by established parties.
'I am up against candidates with party backing and resources, which can be persuasive in areas like Block 9 where poverty is an issue,' Sedibo cried. However, he remains optimistic, relying on the community support he has received, even if it’s not always public. He believes his message of community-focused development will resonate with voters, particularly the youth, who have been more receptive to his ideas.
However, convincing elderly voters of the viability of an independent candidate has proven difficult.
'The youth in Diagane are receptive, but older voters tend to favour established parties. Many ask, ‘What can you do alone?’”
He counters this by emphasising that development is driven by tax money, not political parties, and points out that he has built good relationships with members of various parties, which he believes will help him collaborate effectively if elected. Sedibo’s decision to run as an independent candidate or 'Mokoko,' stems from his dissatisfaction with party politics in Botswana, which he believes lack meaningful ideological differences.
'I have seen politicians move from one party to another with ease because the core ideologies don’t differ much. My focus is on the community, not on adhering to a party line,' he explained.
Sedibo’s frustration also comes from his experience in journalism, where he observed how the media’s reliance on government funding limits their ability to hold public officers accountable. 'There are stories we can’t cover because of financial dependencies, and that limits our ability to hold leaders accountable,' he said.
Sedibo’s time in journalism has shaped his approach to public service. After studying law for a year at the University of Botswana, he received a scholarship to study Economics and International Trade in China.
'Living in China opened my eyes to the power of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) and their role in lifting millions out of poverty,' Sedibo said. This experience has greatly influenced his results-oriented mindset, something he hopes to bring to local governance.
As an openly lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and plus (LGBTQ+) candidate, Sedibo has drawn attention for his personal life, though he insists it is not a central issue in his campaign.
'I have not made my sexuality a focus, and for most people, the priority is on jobs and development,' he said.
While Mogoditshane’s urban setting has led to more progressive attitudes, Sedibo notes that some conservative groups, particularly Pentecostal Christians, have been less accepting. 'The Evangelical Fellowship of Botswana has been vocal against the LGBTQ+ community, especially after recent legislative victories,' he mentioned.
Despite this, Sedibo urges those who feel marginalised because of their sexuality to persevere, urging: 'Hang in there, it gets better. I have been victimised because of my sexuality, but I have never let it stop me from pursuing my goals.'
If elected, Sedibo plans to ensure transparency and accountability through regular engagement with the community. He encourages voters to hold him accountable, especially for his DiagaBricks project, and plans to provide regular updates on its progress.
'If, in four years, Block 9 residents cannot walk to the kombi stop at night without feeling safe, then I will have failed,' he stated.
Opinions about Sedibo’s candidacy vary within Diagane Ward. While young residents like Tiro Gabanakgosi are optimistic about his vision for the community, older voters like Mma Ntsue remain skeptical about the practicality of an independent candidate.
Nevertheless, Sedibo is confident that his focus on community-driven solutions and transparency will resonate with voters. His goal is to create a safer, more prosperous Diagane, where development is led by the people, for the people.