PALEKA BOARD GETS THUMBS UP

Interim board in control until next AGM

THE Master of the High Court, Maggie Rampha, has approved the PALEKA (Pandamatenga, Lesoma, Kazungula) interim committee to act as Board of Trustees.

Following years of complaints by residents of the three villages over mismanagement of resources and a prolonged tenure of over seven years by the boad, concerned members took matters into their own hands and ousted the board at a Special General Meeting (SGM) held on December 12th, last year.

The concerned residents complained bitterly about corruption and mismanagement of assets, such as abandoned vehicles and unpaid debts. Before ousting the old board of trustees, the villagers further demanded audited financial reports, information on the trust’s assets, and details of its contracts.

In an interview with The Voice the concerned group’s former Secretary, Kabozu Kabozu, emphasised that the PALEKA Community Trust should serve the communities’ well-being and, until tangible benefits are realised, the group was ready to pursue alternative solutions for the communities.

Kabozu said their demands reflected a commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement in the management of natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations.

Kabozu was voted as the new board’s interim chairperson alongside Baithamaki Shango, Chirema Muletwa, Crescent Sibani, Louis Moyo, Mompati Oageng, Simon Tshekonyane, Steven Mubi and Tshepo Banika.

“History would’ve judged us harshly had we stayed back and watched a few individuals waste our natural resources, and our children’s future,” said Kabozu.

The letter from the Master of the High Court authorising the interim committee led by Kabozu to act as PALEKA’S Board of Trustees was issued on March, 20th, 2024.