Africa-Press – Botswana. Mr Richard Eaton, the first chairperson of Ghanzi District Council, who also served in the second Parliament (1969-1974) was laid to rest at his farm near Ghanzi.
Uncle Dick, as Eaton was fondly known, was born on March 9, 1924 and died on January 28, two months shy of his 99th birthday.
President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, who was among multitudes of mourners, described the late Eaton as a distinguished legend.
Dr Masisi said the deceased was a selflessness leader, imbued with patriotism, peace with racial tolerance.
“We don’t have to look far for a model who represents attributes of peace and racial tolerance,” President Masisi said, adding that Mr Eaton was a staunch BDP supporter and an avid pilot.
Moreover, Ghanzi District commissioner, Mr Mooketsi Lesetedi, read President Masisi’s message that he conveyed on behalf of government and his family, where he expressed sincere condolences to Eaton family on the loss to their beloved.
Part of the message stated Mr Eaton’s illustrious career and generosity, which earned him two presidential meritorious awards.
For her part, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Ms Talita Monnakgotla described Mr Eaton as a businessman, a farmer and a community leader who would be remembered for his commitment and contribution toward the development of Ghanzi District.
She described as beyond reproach, his contribution to the agricultural sector and social development of Botswana.
MP for Ghanzi North, Mr John Thiite said, “When the country’s great leaders are mentioned, we ought to mention Mr Eaton.”
Former Minister of Agriculture and MP for Ghanzi South, Mr Christian De Graff said Ghanzi would never be the same without Uncle Dick, whom he said was a legend and a patriotic leader.
He said his wisdom and contribution to the development of Ghanzi when he was serving the council for a tenure spanning for over 30 years, coupled with being Ghanzi Farmer’s Association chairperson for 28 years, evidenced that he was a legend.
The entire period as a councillor, he dedicated his entire salary to the less privileged, he said.
Mr Eaton’s son, Brian said his father was exemplary on how to live well and his courage, hard work and commitment bore him success.
The grand daughter, Jessica Eaton said his grandfather was a simple man and a true gentleman leaving behind enormous legacy.
Mr Eaton was Born in Victoria West in South Africa’s Cape Province and he landed in Ghanzi in 1955, in service of the then British Protectorate as a surveyor, whose task was not only to map the farms, but also to consolidate and allocate economically viable units as well as to demarcate new farms on the periphery of the existing farmland stretching as far as Xanagas and Kuke. He is survived by three sons.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
