After serving for more than 20 years, Botswana National Front (BNF) Women’s Wing President and Gaborone-based business woman, Rhoda Sekgororoane, earlier this week resigned from the BNF to join the Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD).
Sekgororoane confirmed her defection to the BMD to Sunday Standard her defection to the BMD.
She stated that she has been politically active in BNF matters since 1989 after the BNF Palapye split.
She has held several BNF positions, such as Secretary General of the Women’s league and Secretary for International Affairs, and has also been an observer at elections in SADC countries.
“I had to move on and it was not an easy decision to make. It was emotional because I have been working jointly with other people,” said Sekgororoane. She said, with the BMD, there is light at the end of the tunnel in terms of taking Botswana to another level.
Sekgororoane expressed support on the cooperation talks among opposition parties. She said she saw massive progress in the BMD.
“I am confident enough to say that I am on the right track in my political career,” said Sekgororane.
In an interview with Sunday Standard, BMD Interim Coordinator-National Mobilization, Kabo Morwaeng, confirmed Sekgororoane’s BMD membership. He labeled her a woman of quality and substance and a go-getter. He stated that her many years of experience as a political veteran would be useful to the party.
“We are very happy as BMD leadership and welcome the bold step she took,” said Morwaeng, adding that Sekgororoane is going to positively influence the direction party policy will take.
Gender activist from non-governmental organisation, Women Empowerment, Keobonye Ntsabane, said Sekgororoane’s decision to leave the BNF after 20 years had clearly been taken after deep thought. She described Sekgororoane as a vocal and influential woman.
“I wish her the best of luck on her journey,” said Ntsabane, giving credit to Sekgororoane for joining another political party on the back of a clean record.
“Twenty years is a long time and if there is no progress, why not move on and grow up,” said Ntsabane.
She stated that Sekgororoane’s move to the BMD is not surprising as there has been a lot of movement as people move from one party to another.
