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Botswana: Pastor Joins the Political Fray
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Mmegi/The Reporter (Gaborone)
9 April 2008
Posted to the web 10 April 2008
Onalenna Modikwa
Gaborone
Christ-Citadel International Church Pastor, Ronald Phetlhe has been appointed the new administration officer for Selebi Phikwe-West constituency after the resignation of Mbaha Kambimba.
Pastor Phetlhe's appointment was effected last week while Kambimba was reportedly vying to challenge Vister Moruti for the Okavango parliamentary seat at the end of February. It is very rare for a Pentecostal church pastor to hold a public office, especially one closely linked to politics, but Pastor Phetlhe who is commonly known in the town for his involvement in faith institutions like Ministers Fraternal, says there is nothing wrong with it.
He indicates that his new position does not affect his obligations to the church. "When I knock off, I go straight to the church. My congregation knows about my position and they welcomed it," he says. Pastor Phetlhe noted that the church should never be viewed as an institution above the country's government. He added that the church should not stand back but must lend a hand to help government shape the future of the country and get involved. "Like any other person, Christians are affected by poverty, and they must participate in rebuilding the family, justice and prosperity and God wants us to prosper.
People should be encouraged to take responsibility roles and hard workers are always rewarded. I want to be an example to the brethren and show that politics is not dirty like people assume. Without politics there would be no government," argues the pastor. He stressed that politics is God's creation and people should pray for those in authority. People must understand that leadership was created to restore order, he believes. "Christians should be involved and think of the country and how the nation can progress. Democracy is like a baby, it has to be nurtured." Pastor Phetlhe once worked for Botswana Savings Bank before going for the Bible School in South Africa.
Selebi-West MP, Kavis Kario confirmed Pastor Phetlhe's appointment. "He was officially appointed at the beginning of this month," he said.
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