Around Mother Africa Long Walk Original Manuscript (Image #442)

former members of the ANC of South Africa. Its National Secretary was Motsamai Mpo, another former Treason Trialist and Phillip Mathante, who was prominent in the Alexandra branch of the ANC, was one of the leading members of its national executive and I hoped that they would do well in the elections that would be held in the following year. Nonetheless I strongly felt that the existence of two political parties on the eve of independence was undesirable and irged them either to merge with Seretse or sign an election pact with him. It was my firm opinion that in spite of my own personal wish in the matter, bearing in mind the family background of Seretse and the influence of chieftaincy still in the country, his own personal ability and popularity and the massive support he received from his people during the conflict with his powerful and resourceful uncle Tshekedi, he would certainly romp home to victory. I pointed out to Professor Motsete that it would be unrealistic to expect any other result and persuaded him to have discussions on the matter with the leader of the Democratic Party. He acknowledged the point and promised to discuss the whole question with his executive at the earliest possible convenience. Motsamai was living in Palapye at the time and Phillip was on a visit to Ghana but I was hoping to visit Motsamai and discuss the matter with him directly as well. I was also keen to go to Serowe to pay a courtesy call on Seretse whom I had last met in South Africa. After a separation of more than a decade I looked forward to seeing him again and meeting his family. We were still conversing with the professor and others when a white gentleman arrived and who was introduced as Mr. Kirby, the immigration officer. After a few preliminaries he indicated that he