15 Sep 2024

The newly elected Botswana Football Association (BFA)  president Tariq Babitseng has promised to discharge his duties with integrity, fairness and respect for the rule of law and all governing statutes and principles.

Speaking after being declared the new federation president during the elective congress in Palapye on Saturday, Babitseng said sport was bigger than any individual, and together with the football family, they would work together to create a legacy of excellence, driven by a shared love for the game.

“Over the past months, I have traveled this nation, I have spoken to many of you regional executives, players, coaches, referees, sponsors, supporters and what I witnessed was not just passion, but a deep-seated love for the game,” he said.

Babitseng said football in Botswana was not just a sport but the nation’s heartbeat that brought everyone together, lifted their spirits, and carried with it the hopes and dreams of every boy and girl who dared to dream.

“You the football people are the reason we are here today. You have demonstrated patriotism, dedication and a relentless belief that together we can make Botswana football great. Today I proudly stand with you, united in the collective mission to serve this game,” he said.

Babitseng said by voting for him, the delegates had agreed to integrity and good governance, adding that together they were committed to transparency, accountability and a football association that served the game and not personal interests.

He said the delegates had also chosen to invest in their future, to nurture the talent of every young boy and girl with the potential to shine from every corner of the country.

Under his committee, Babitseng said they would make sure that a girl child would not be left behind, as they would foster a football environment where opportunity and access were available to all with safeguarding measures to protect their journey to greatness.

“Today is not just a victory for me, it’s victory for you, for Botswana football and for the future we will build together. The journey ahead will not be easy. There will be challenges but I stand ready to face them, knowing I am not alone. I have all of you beside me,” he said.

Babitseng was declared BFA president after Maclean Letshwiti withdrew from a re-run. In the first round, Babitseng was elected by 21 delegates, Letshwiti 16 and Masego Nchingane was voted by one.

The election had to go for a re-run because the winner should have 70 per cent of the votes, but Letshwiti declined saying the delegates had spoken.

Meanwhile, Maokaneng Bontshetse is the new vice president one after defeating Phadza Butale 26-11.

Tico Kamati beat Carlos Sebina 35-three, making him the second vice president.  BFA three ordinary members are Goemeone Letebele who was voted by 31 followed by Bathusi Rathari with 27 and Norman Sebele, 19. Rabie Ratshosa and Moreotile Juta were only voted by 17 and 16 respectively

Additional female member is Thabang Shadikong who defeated Suzie Montsho by 26-12 in the re run, after they tied 19 all in the first round. Ends