Africa-Press – Botswana. Newly elected Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA) president, Dirang Thipe has promised to take boxing back to its glory days.
Thipe, who was vying for the top position against Lechedzani Luza, Irene Ntelamo and while Gilbert Khunwane, was voted at the association’s elective general assembly in Jwaneng on Saturday.
He was voted by eight delegates and Luza was voted by four, while Ntelamo and Khunwane received three and two votes respectively.
In an interview, Thipe said his vote was a clear indication that the boxing community had confidence in him and he promised that he would not disappoint them.
He said together with his committee, he would ensure that there was good governance, transparency and consultation.
“This is not a victory for me alone, but it is a new beginning for all of us. A united BoBA, driven by discipline, development, and purpose,” he said.
He committed to also work closely with all affiliates and stakeholders to launch the national boxing league, develop grassroots, school-based programmes and promote junior and youth tournaments.
Furthermore, he said they would invest in the development of coaches, referees and administrators, as well as restoring the pride of boxing across Botswana.
“It is important for us to work and walk together, with unity, accountability and action. The journey to Los Angeles 2028 Olympics begins today,” he said.
He said they would work with the outgoing committee, build on the foundation they had laid and carry the torch forward with fresh energy.
“I call upon each of them to be ambassadors of change, in their clubs, in regions, and in every boxing ring across the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Phetogo Tsheko was voted as the vice president in a closely contested election and he was declared the winner in the second round.
In the first round, both Tsheko and Hlanganani Digwere tied with eight votes each with one spoiled but in the second round Tsheko got nine with Digwere only voted by eight.
Tshiamo Moalosi is the new BoBA secretary general after defeating both Taolo Tlouetsile and Lefiri Moremi who did not receive any votes from the delegates.
Kabelo Seleka won the publicity secretary position with 15 votes, while his opponent Gaone Motshwanaesi was voted by two.
Nine voted Dintwa Sloca as the additional member while Mathata Thingwane and Olebogeng Gaotlhobogwe lost as they were voted by four delegates each.
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