MASISI'S HUMAN SHIELD
Pono Moatlhodi, a prominent figure in the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), made a striking declaration of loyalty to President Mokgweetsi Masisi during a candidate launch in Mmathethe this past Sunday.
Speaking in support of Peggy Serame, the BDP parliamentary candidate for the Goodhope-Mmathethe constituency, Moatlhodi expressed his unwavering commitment to the president, even going so far as to say that he would risk his life to protect him from threats allegedly made by the opposition.
Moatlhodi revealed the toll that recent events have taken on him. He said he had been unable to sleep due to comments made by Duma Boko, leader of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
"Ga ke robale, ke lala kewa mo bolaong ka mohoko a a builweng ke Rraetsho Duma Gideon Boko," Moatlhodi said, explaining that Boko’s words had caused him sleepless nights.
According to Moatlhodi, Boko allegedly stated that if he fails to win the upcoming elections, he will kill President Masisi. This threat, Moatlhodi said, had deeply troubled him, as he took Boko’s words as a serious threat to the president's life.
He claimed that Boko had also made threats against the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Secretary, Jefferson Siamisang. According to Moatlhodi, Boko warned that if the IEC tried to rig the elections, Siamisang would face severe consequences.
"Boko also threatened the IEC Secretary and his family, saying that if they attempt to steal the elections, he will make sure Siamisang goes through difficult situations," Moatlhodi claimed.
Moatlhodi made it clear that he would personally defend President Masisi if Boko attempted any harm.
"Ha aka goroga Boko a tshwere tlhobolo, le ha dile tlhano a di laetse, ke tla ema ha pele ga ga motlotlegi rraetsho tautona gore a bolae nna," he stated, which translates to, "If Boko comes with a gun, even with five loaded guns, I will stand in front of His Excellency the President so he can kill me instead."
Moatlhodi emphasised that the president has national responsibilities to serve the country and that he was willing to sacrifice his own life for the good of the nation.
"I will die in the name of the people of this country," he declared, solidifying his stance as a fierce protector of President Masisi.
He then urged attendants not to vote for Boko, citing the UDC leader’s alleged threats as proof of his disregard for democracy.
"Boko does not value democracy," Moatlhodi said, cautioning voters to consider the stability and future of the country when casting their ballots. He argued that a leader who makes threats of violence is not fit to lead a democratic nation.
He endorsed Peggy Serame as the right person to represent the Goodhope-Mmathethe constituency in Parliament. He expressed confidence in her ability to lead and serve the community effectively.
"Serame is ready to politically lead the Goodhope-Mmathethe constituency to Parliament," he said, adding that she has the necessary skills and commitment to bring developments to the region.
Moatlhodi also asked the crowd to protect Serame and her team from any potential threats or disruptions during the election process. He emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and ensuring that democracy prevails in the constituency.
"Protect her from anything that will disrupt democracy," Moatlhodi urged, calling for unity and support for Serame’s campaign.
As he concluded his speech, Moatlhodi made a final plea to the voters to choose Serame and her 21 councillors in the upcoming elections. He expressed confidence that their leadership would
contribute to the continued growth and success of both the constituency and the country.
"Vote for Serame and her 21 councillors to ensure that democracy remains intact, and our nation continues to progress," Moatlhodi said.