1961 Bechuanaland general election

Politics of Botswana
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    Mokgweetsi Masisi
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    Slumber Tsogwane
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    Minister: Vincent T. Seretse
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General elections were held in the Bechuanaland Protectorate in 1961.

Background

A new constitution had been enacted in December 1960, which created both a Legislative Council and an advisory African Council.[1] The Legislative Council had just over 30 members; 10 colonial officials, 10 blacks, 10 whites, one Asian and some co-opted members.[1] The 10 black members were elected by the African Council, whilst the 10 whites and the Asian member were all directly elected.[1]

The African Council consisted of the eight heads of the Tswana chiefdoms and some elected members.[1]

Results

Seretse Khama received the most votes in the election for the black representatives.[2] The Council was inaugurated in June.[2]

References

  1. ^ a b c d Botswana: Late British colonialism (1945-1966) EISA
  2. ^ a b "Seretse Khama Gains Most Votes" The Times, 18 May 1961, p12, issue 55084
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