Africa-Press – Botswana. Mr Nabulani Lenyatso of Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has emerged victorious in the Mapoka/Nlaphkhwane/Kgari Council Ward by-election, which was held on Saturday.
He received 565 votes against 327 votes received by Mr Thomamisi Ndaba of Botswana Congress Party (BCP) and Botswana Democratic Party candidate Mr Thomas Chabalala’s 273 votes.
Four votes were spoilt.
The seat fell vacant after the death of Councillor Farai Bonyongo in February.
The returning officer, Mr Gobe Macha confirmed that all candidates accepted the results and endorsed their signatures as a sign of acknowledgment of the elections outcomes.
He was happy that the whole process went well as there were no commotions or reports of unacceptable behavior during the voting process and after the announcement of results.
Mr Macha said polling stations opened at 630 am and closed at 7pm with no extension time. He added that all candidates were either present or represented at the counting center and at the time of announcement of results.
The triumphant Mr Lenyatso concurred that all processes went well.
“I commend the UDC members for expressing their love on me and the party as well by sending me to represent them at council,” he said.
Mr Lenyatso said he would represent both the youth and elderly people by coming up with programmes that would alleviate poverty and improve food security in all three villages forming his ward.
He said electorates found the ability in him and that of UDC.
BCP representative, Mr Benjamin Bagali, who was the polling agent for the by-election said the desire of the people was reflected in the outcome of the election.
Mr Bagali said although he accepts the results, the elections were not independent and called for some laws be amended.
For his part, Mr Chabalala said voters had exercised their right in an independent manner.
“I wish my brother the best of luck in his future endeavors in taking our ward to greater heights,” he said adding that he was happy with the way elections were conducted.
“Democracy has prevailed and I accepted the results,” he said.
For More News And Analysis About Botswana Follow Africa-Press
