1961 Bechuanaland general election

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General elections were held in the Bechuanaland Protectorate in 1961.

Contents

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]

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References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Botswana: Late British colonialism (1945-1966) EISA
  2. 1 2 "Seretse Khama Gains Most Votes" The Times, 18 May 1961, p12, issue 55084