14 May 2017

The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has retained the Tlokweng parliamentary seat after its candidate, Mr Kenneth Segokgo was declared winner of the Saturday’s bye election.
The returning officer, Mr Richard Boitshwarelo announced Mr Segokgo as the newly elected area MP, having gained 4 634 votes, with Mr Elijah Katse of the Botswana Democratic Party getting 2 156 votes, while independent candidate Ms Shirley Segokgo got 57 votes.
A total number of 6 875 voters participated in the poll and 28 ballots were spoilt.

The ballot counting process ended at around 10 am on Sunday morning, prompting celebrations from UDC supporters, who had congregated in numbers outside the counting centre.
Mr Segokgo pledged to place healthcare and education at the top of his agenda in Parliament.
UDC leader, Gaborone Bonnington South legislator, Mr Duma Boko thanked the people of Tlokweng for their support. He said issues such as a lack of access to land and youth unemployment were pressing issues that could be addressed by the UDC.

BDP representative Councillor Douglas Kereng thanked his party leaders for their effort in Mr Katse’s campaign.
“We gave Batlokwa a solid message about our policies as the BDP. If the electorate decided to choose something else it is their democratic right,” he said.
The seat fell vacant in November 2016 after the passing away of the then MP, Ms Same Bathobakae of the UDC. ENDS