PUBLIC OUTCRY Councillor’s alleged abuse sparks outrage and swift suspension
The story of specially elected councillor Mmusi Jerry has taken a dark and disturbing turn. The 42-year-old politician appeared before the Masunga Magistrates Court on Monday, facing a single count of rape after allegations that he sexually assaulted a 12-year-old Standard Six pupil in Makobo village last Thursday.
In court, Jerry told the magistrate he would conduct his own defence, citing lack of funds for legal representation. Prosecutor Moathodi Macheng successfully applied for his remand, noting that investigations are still at a preliminary stage and that the young victim is receiving counselling. The case has been set for mention on 10 February.
The allegations have sent shockwaves across Botswana. Councillor Leungo Thabana of Majana ward expressed disappointment, saying leaders should be custodians of children, not predators. “If it is true, then I am disappointed. As councillors we should be seen to be custodians of these children, they are our children and they need our protection,” she said.
The Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), under whose banner Jerry was specially nominated, wasted no time in acting. On Monday evening, the party’s National Executive Committee announced his immediate suspension, invoking Clause 15.4.2 of its constitution. BPF President Lawrence Ookeditse stressed that the party has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual abuse, especially involving minors. He added that but for the principles of natural justice, Jerry would have been summarily expelled.
The party also confirmed it will write to the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, urging him to revoke Jerry’s council seat. “Our country is grappling with extreme high cases of rape and defilement, and we do not expect any leader or member of our party to commit any such violations,” the statement read.
Public reaction has been swift and unforgiving. Many Batswana have welcomed the suspension, seeing it as a necessary step to restore trust in leadership. The Botswana Congress Party Youth League (BCPYL) condemned the alleged abuse, calling it “shocking, horrifying, and fundamentally contrary to the values of humanity, dignity, and justice.” The youth league demanded Jerry’s resignation to preserve the integrity of public office and stood in solidarity with the victim and her family.
Shashe West constituency chairperson Mmoloki Olopeng was blunt: “Men should just stay away from molesting children. It is a disgrace.”
The case has reignited national conversations about child protection, accountability, and the moral responsibilities of leaders. For many, Jerry’s suspension is not just about party discipline, it is about sending a clear message that no one, regardless of position, is above the law.
Renowned human rights layer Uyapo Ndadi hailed BPF leader Ookeditse for the decisive reaction. “Well done Lawrence, I am proud of you for taking this decision. Leadership,” Ndadi stated, concluding with a stern warning to men, imploring them to stay away from children. “A bana ba tshele borraetsho. A bana ba gole. Baeteledipele, sireletsang, se ntsheng bana didirisiwa,” he concluded.
As the legal process unfolds, the nation watches closely. For the victim and her family, justice must be more than a slogan. For the public, the suspension is a welcome first step. And for Jerry, once a councillor, now a remanded suspect, the fall from grace has been swift and brutal.
