Botswana to get new vice-president this week after Merafhe’s resignation over illness

PRESIDENT Ian Khama of Botswana is to name a replacement for vice-president Mompati Merafhe this week after he had to step down because of illness.

The highly decorated political veteran had planned to stay in office until 2014 when Botswana is due to return to the polls.

Mr Khama has given no hint of who he will name on Wednesday, but most observers expect Minerals and Energy Affairs Minister Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe to replace Mr Merafhe, 76.

Mr Merafhe first appeared on the political scene in 1989 as an MP after serving as commander of the Botswana Defence Force.

Among many posts, he was Botswana’s foreign minister for 14 years from 1994. He was chosen as vice-president and Leader of the House on April 1 2008.

Political analyst and former University of Botswana lecturer Lawrence Ookeditse said Dr Kedikilwe would be the least controversial choice, despite his intending to retire in 2014. “It will also do great justice to President Khama’s legacy as having ended factionalism in the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Previously, the likes of Dr Kedikilwe would have been overlooked due to factional battles,” he said.

There was no immediate comment from the government.

Political analyst Hamufari Gwerevende also expects Mr Khama to select Dr Kedikilwe. “At this moment President Khama is mostly likely to appoint a senior from the BDP until 2014. We sus- pect Dr Kedikilwe, looking at his wealth of skills and appreciation of issues.”

Mr Gwerevende said after 2014, Mr Khama could appoint businessman and party stalwart Lesang Magang. From a wealthy family, he has ties with the Chinese business community in Botswana, and is secretary for publicity and international affairs in the BDP.

Another candidate for the post after 2014 is Mokgweetsi Masisi, the presidential affairs and administration minister.