Africa-Press – Botswana. Former Lobatse MP, Mr Otlaadisa Koosaletse, was laid to rest in Kanye on Saturday.
Mourners from across the political divide, Batswana from all works of life and Kanye residents descended on the Bangwaketse capital to pay homage to the giant of opposition politics, who died at the age of 66.
Delivering his tribute, Botswana National Front and Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) leader, Advocate Duma Boko described Mr Koosaletse as an honest and visionary leader.
“We judge people not by the glittering costumes they dawn, we judge people not by the high sounding appellations they give themselves, but what they actually do and what they stand for,” he said.
In that regard, he said Mr Koosaletse had inscribed his name in the hearts of many because he was a dedicated servant of the people.
Advocate Boko thanked the Koosaletse family for supporting the late stalwart BNF member, who was at some point leader of the Botswana Congress Party (BCP).
Their selflessness in offering their child to serve the nation would forever be valued, especially on the challenging times experienced by politicians, added the BNF leader.
“Comrade Koosaletse was dedicated to improving the lives of the people.
He was exemplary and a testimony to all of us, hence the reason we are proud of him,” said Advocate Boko.
He further applauded Mr Koosaletse for his dedication and spirit of patriotism, adding that he was loyal to the BNF and its cause.
For his part, Former MP, Mr Leach Tlhomelang, described Mr Koosaletse as a leader of note, adding that he was a humble giant, who never allowed prejudice to overrule his judgement.
“I admired him as mostly he relied on facts and not speculation.
He has served Bangwaketse with diligence,” he said.
Mr Koosaletse’s children, Pulane and Pontsho described their father as a loving, brilliant, principled and courageous being, who had a sense of humour.
A message of condolences on behalf of Parliament and Speaker of the National Assembly stated that the news of Mr Koosaletse’s passing were received with heavy hearts.
Mr Koosaletse, according to the message, contributed immensely as a Member of Parliament during the ninth Parliament from 1994 to 1999, adding that his passing was a great loss not only to the Koosaletse family, but Batswana as well.
Mr Koosaletse was in the BNF leadership before internal misunderstandings led to the formation of BCP in 1998, where he became the vice president, then later the president.
He later retracted his steps to the BNF.
He was the elections coordinator under the UDC.
Mr Koosaletse was recently appointed chairperson of the UDC primary elections.
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