Africa-Press – Botswana. Member of Parliament for Nkange constituency, Motlhaleemang Moalosi has emerged as one of the most outspoken voices in the opposition Botswana Congress Party (BCP).
Known for his fiery debates in Parliament and fearless advocacy, the Marapong-born legislator has campaigned vigorously for access to clean water, pushed for the economic potential of industrial hemp, and recently stirred controversy with his firm stance against the Tribal Territories Act.
In this candid interview with The Voice staffer DANIEL CHIDA, Moalosi opens up about his parliamentary record, clashes with fellow MPs, leadership ambitions within the BCP, and the challenges facing his constituency.
What key achievements have you delivered to your constituents since your election?
Since being elected, my primary focus has been on fulfilling the mandate given to me by the people. This includes actively participating in parliamentary debates, raising questions on behalf of my constituents, and holding the government accountable. I have introduced or contributed to a number of motions and bills aimed at improving the lives of Batswana. I have also been deeply involved in parliamentary committees, particularly those related to public accounts, ensuring that public funds are used transparently and effectively. Beyond the National Assembly, I have been visible in my constituency, holding kgotla meetings, and working with local leaders to address community challenges and bring development projects to the area.
You were once seen as a controversial figure. Why have you toned down?
Being an MP is a serious and solemn responsibility. My role is to represent the interests of my constituents and contribute to the effective governance of our country. My approach has evolved to focus on constructive engagement and well-researched, factual arguments. It’s about substance over style. I believe that effective change comes from working within the system and building alliances, not from unnecessary confrontation. I have not “toned down” my principles or my commitment to fighting for what is right, but rather, I have refined my approach to be more strategic and impactful.
How do your constituents feel about your strong presence in Parliament?
The feedback from my constituents has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciate my strong and clear voice in Parliament and the fact that I am actively fighting for their interests. They feel a sense of pride and ownership in the work I am doing. They see that their concerns are being heard at a national level, and they encourage me to continue to speak truth to power and be a champion for their needs.
You once clashed with Specially Elected MP, Pius Mokgware. Was that personal beef or it was purely political?
I want to be very clear that I do not have a personal “beef” with anyone, including Hon. Mokgware.
Any disagreements that have occurred in public have been purely on matters of principle and political strategy. When debates become heated, emotions can run high, and sometimes a person may use language that, in retrospect, could have been more carefully chosen. I regret any instance where my words may have caused offense. My focus is and will always be on the issues at hand, not on personal attacks.
Many expected you to lead the charge on industrial hemp, do you feel sidelined?
I have not been sidelined from the issue of hemp and cannabis. The BCP and the UDC have a clear and collective position on the need to explore the economic potential of industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis. My personal interest and advocacy on this matter are well-known, and I continue to contribute to the party’s policy discussions and parliamentary debates on the topic. The current government has also shown an interest in this, which is a positive step.
My vision for implementation is that we adopt a comprehensive and responsible framework. This should involve:
• Public education: Raising awareness about the difference between industrial hemp and recreational cannabis, as well as the medicinal applications.
• Legal framework: Creating clear legislation that regulates the cultivation, processing, and sale of industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis, including a licensing system to prevent abuse.
• Economic empowerment: Prioritizing local farmers and small businesses in the licensing process, and ensuring that the benefits of this new industry are widely distributed throughout the country.
You have been outspoken against former President Ian Khama, who is backing you?
I stand on my own convictions and my take on the matter is purely a matter of national interest. I do not have a sponsor or a person “backing” me. I do not know why one may think I have taken President Khama head on. I have never interacted in any forum with President Khama. There is an issue that I am working on at the moment on the repeal of the Tribal Territories act. This is an act of parliament that negatively affects the people I represent. It has nothing to do with Khama or anyone for that matter.
Do you see BCP winning elections in 2029?
The Botswana Congress Party, is committed to winning the 2029 general elections. We believe that by continuing to address the issues that matter most to Batswana—such as unemployment, poverty, and corruption—we have a strong chance of winning and forming the next government. Batswana have voted for change but many are beginning to see that this is not the change they wanted. A lot of promises they were given are not materialising.
Rumours suggest you’re eyeing the BCP presidency in the future. Is this true?
I have no ambition of being the BCP president. I believe that there are more senior and capable members in the party who are well-equipped to take over from President Dumelang Saleshando when the time comes. My focus is on serving my party in the best way I can, and my current aspiration is to serve in a different leadership capacity.
Who do you like to see succeed Dumelang Saleshando as BCP president?
As a loyal member of the BCP, I will respect and support the democratic process within the party. The BCP is a democratic organization, and the members will elect the next leader. There are many highly qualified individuals who have the experience and leadership qualities to take on the presidency, and I have full confidence that the members will make the right choice when the time comes.
Which position will you contest at the upcoming elective congress?
I have publicly stated that I will contest for the position of publicity secretary at the upcoming elective congress, if given the opportunity by my party to serve in that capacity. I believe my experience and skills in communication and public relations would be a great asset to the party in this role.
There’s talk of silent factions in the BCP. What’s your view?
I do not believe there are “silent factions” in the BCP. What we have are different lobby lists, which is a normal and healthy part of any democratic party that is preparing for an elective congress. These are not factions driven by personal animosity, but rather groups of members who are passionate about different leadership approaches and want to see their preferred candidates elected to the Central Committee. This is a sign of a vibrant and engaged membership, not a fractured party. The fact that we can have spirited contests and then come together as a unified force is a testament to the BCP’s internal democracy.
More ReadHow would you rate your performance so far as MP?
I believe that I have risen to the occasion and have worked diligently to serve my constituents and my country. I have been a strong and consistent voice on important issues, and I have been an active participant in the legislative process. I am proud of the work I have done, but I am also aware that there is always more to be done. My performance is ultimately for the people to judge, and I hope that they see my commitment and my tireless efforts to represent them to the best of my ability.
During your campaign you said Maitengwe residents were drinking sewage water. Has the crisis been solved, or was it political exaggeration?
My statement about the water crisis in Maitengwe was based on the grim reality faced by my constituents at the time. The description of the water quality was to highlight the severity of the problem and the urgency with which it needed to be addressed. It was not political propaganda, but a genuine and honest portrayal of a public health crisis. The challenge was that the then MP denied that people were drinking dirty water.
Solving the water crisis is an ongoing process, and it is not something that a single MP can do alone. I have been relentless in raising this issue with the relevant government ministries and the Water Utilities Corporation (WUC). I have engaged in numerous parliamentary questions to pressure the government into action. While the problem has not been entirely eradicated, there have been some improvements, and I will not rest until every household in my constituency has access to clean, safe, and reliable water.
Finally, what should we expect from you going forward?
In the future, you can expect the same commitment and passion from me. I will continue to be a dedicated public servant, working for the betterment of my constituents and the nation as a whole. I will continue to be a vocal and principled member of Parliament, advocating for policies that promote social justice, economic development, and good governance. I will also continue to be an active member of the BCP, working to strengthen the party as we prepare for the next elections and beyond. My future is intertwined with the future of Botswana, and I will do everything in my power to ensure it is a bright one.
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