Plot to coup Masisi flops

A plan by scores of Cabinet ministers to have Mokgweetsi Masisi dropped as Vice president collapsed last week after President Khama closed ranks around his deputy. A cabinet meeting called last week turned into a Masisi bashing session as scores of ministers among them Tshekedi Khama and Health Minister Dorcus Makgatho Malesu expressed their reservation about the Vice president’s leadership. The Cabinet meeting was called by President Khama to try and clear the air which has been poisoned by the bruising contest for the presidency. The anti-Masisi group believed the meeting was called to strengthen Khama’s hand and resolve to drop Masisi from the Vice presidency. The antiÔÇôMasisi camp was counting on the support of President Khama, but their plan unravelled when the president threw his brother Tshekedi Khama under the bus and instead fought Masisi’s corner. Among those who backed Masisi were Minister of Defence Justice and Security, Shaw Kgathi. The President’s right hand man, and Minister of Sports Youth and Culture, however steered clear of the fray and never took part in the verbal sparring, suggesting that he was in on the President’s plan. The president allegedly endorsed Masisi as his heir apparent and implored other Cabinet ministers to make peace with him. This has laid to rest, speculations that Khama was backing his brother’s bid for the presidency which were stoked by recent reports that the President had tried to dissuade Masisi from contesting the chairmanship of the party. The BDP chairmanship is traditionally believed to be a springboard to the presidency. Another candidate who is expected to stand for the Presidency is Minister Nonofo Molefhi who support cuts across the BDF factional divide. Some party insiders believe that Molefhi, who is a gentleman politician, appeals to BDP structures and grassroots because of his gentle and approachable demeanour. It is however early days and indications are that other contenders for the BDP presidency will not be withdrawing their candidacy anytime soon.