The Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) executive committee, led by Mpho Bakwadi, is facing a motion of no confidence from its affiliates. In a letter signed by three-quarters of BOKA members, the clubs have called for a Special General Meeting (SGM) scheduled for February 8, 2025, to address several serious concerns and initiate the process of removing the committee from office.
Allegations Against the Executive Committee
The affiliates accuse the current executive of numerous constitutional violations, including:
- Failure to Appoint Required Commissions
The committee has not established the necessary commissions as outlined in the BOKA constitution, raising questions about its adherence to governance standards. - Lack of Financial Transparency
For two consecutive years, the committee has failed to present audited financial statements. This omission has sparked concerns about financial accountability and proper use of funds. - Non-Compliance with Constitutional Procedures
Members allege that the executive has failed to hold meetings as mandated by the constitution. - Unlawful Appointments and Terminations
There are allegations of unlawful appointments and arbitrary terminations of members, further fueling dissatisfaction among affiliates. - Failure to Implement AGM Resolutions
The committee is also accused of ignoring resolutions passed during previous Annual General Meetings (AGMs).
Calls for Action
The affiliates have written to the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC), requesting that BOKA’s funding be frozen pending the resolution of the leadership crisis. They have also reached out to the Ministry of Sports and Arts and the World Karate Federation (WKF) to investigate the allegations and intervene if necessary.
In their letter, the members highlighted that government funds are allegedly being misused by the executive committee to finance legal battles against the same members the committee is supposed to represent. “This is the misuse of public funds and a violation of the trust placed in them by the government,” the letter states.
Next Steps
The SGM on February 8, 2025, will provide a platform for the affiliates to deliberate on the motion of no confidence and chart a way forward for the association. The affiliates are determined to restore transparency, accountability, and proper governance within BOKA.
Broader Implications
This leadership crisis could have far-reaching implications for BOKA’s reputation and its relationship with stakeholders, including the BNSC and the WKF. Affiliates are hopeful that the SGM will pave the way for a new leadership team that prioritizes the association’s values and adheres to its constitution.
The developments in the coming weeks will be crucial for the future of karate in Botswana, as members and stakeholders await resolutions to the issues plaguing the association.
