The ruling party in Botswana, which has been in power for nearly six decades, is attempting a bold move in the upcoming general election by adopting a phrase typically used by opposition groups – “change.” In their manifesto, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) is calling for a collective effort towards change and prosperity for all. President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who has been leading the country since 2018, acknowledges the need for a different approach, while the opposition argues that the president’s party is not equipped for this task. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the election outcome this time, the BDP has consistently secured parliamentary majorities and the presidency since independence in 1966. The party is credited with overseeing Botswana’s remarkable development from a poor nation with minimal infrastructure to one with high living standards, largely due to its vast diamond reserves. However, economic challenges, high unemployment rates, and income inequality persist, prompting calls for change. Both supporters and critics weigh in on the government’s performance and promises, as the country prepares for a pivotal election.
In the past, there have always been attempts to portray it as a matter of maintaining stability – more of the same – and in a frenzy, they are trying to promote something they don’t truly believe in.
UDC leader Duma Boko (R in blue tie) has claimed that there have been efforts to manipulate the election [AFP]
Supporters of another opposition party – the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), which received the second largest portion of the vote in 2019, turned out in large numbers in the north of the capital, Gaborone.
Clothed in blue-and-white T-shirts and sun hats, they enthusiastically cheered for leader Duma Boko.
Unlike Masisi, Boko mostly maintained a serious demeanor, highlighting the extent of the suffering experienced by the people under the BDP.
He accused that there were endeavors to rig the election.
“I encourage you all to be vigilant and to stay at the polling station after voting out the BDP to safeguard your vote,” he stated.
Thapelo Dimpe, a 45-year-old former teacher, is certain about his desire to see the president’s party defeated.
“Masisi has disappointed us in terms of education reform. The UDC aims to invest in our schools and empower our youth with the education they merit,” he expressed.
Although the government faces numerous issues that could weaken its support, opposition splits might enable the BDP to retain power.
Each MP is elected using a first-past-the-post system, meaning that the BDP only needs the highest number of votes in a constituency to secure a seat rather than more than 50%.
In a constituency where the UDC, BCP or BPF – or several other parties – are competing, it could result in the opposition vote being divided, giving the BDP an advantage.
“These parties appear to have internal divisions, airing their internal problems in the media – they lack true unity,” political analyst Lesole Machacha informed the BBC.
However, he also noted that the BDP itself faces challenges.
“The ruling party is not fully intact – it also has its own issues. In certain constituencies, BDP politicians who were dissatisfied with the primary process are running as independent candidates, potentially splitting the vote,” Mr Machacha remarked.
All of this sets the stage for a tightly contested and uncertain election, he added.
For one of Africa’s most successful political parties, the key question now is whether enough people are persuaded that it can bring about the necessary change in the country.
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[Getty Images/BBC]
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