As previously mentioned, I urge all eligible Batswana to register, particularly members and supporters of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). We aim for a decisive victory over the Opposition Parties. In the 2019 General Elections, we secured triumph with 38 National Assembly seats, surpassing the main opposition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), which claimed 15 seats. The Botswana Patriotic Front won three, and the Alliance for Progressive secured one. Our goal now is to surpass the 38 seats and achieve an even more substantial victory.
President Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi has unequivocally demonstrated his merit for a second term, and a resounding one at that! He has fulfilled numerous electoral promises made in 2019, including achieving food security through the revitalization of the agricultural sector. Botswana's first mega Citrus project in Selibe Phikwe, featuring around 800,000 citrus trees, is set to yield its first harvest this month. The project is expected to export thousands of tons of citrus fruits to markets such as China, Europe, and the USA, making it the largest consolidated citrus development in Southern Africa. Additionally, initiatives like electrification of villages, provision of clean water, infrastructure development, and digitalization of the public sector are underway to enhance service delivery.
In the aftermath of the last general elections, the Opposition Parties, particularly the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), witnessed a setback, leading to their withdrawal from the UDC. This move involved some BCP MPs, such as Hon Dithapelo Keorapetse, Hon Dr Nevah Tshabang, and Hon David Tshere, pledging allegiance to the UDC despite their party's stance. The lack of inner party democracy within the UDC was highlighted, culminating in the removal of their leader from the position of Leader of Opposition in Parliament. The UDC's failure to hold leadership elections raises concerns about its future governance practices.
Opposition unity, often advocated by these parties, has historically crumbled due to a lack of inner party democracy. Attempts at unity before the 2014 and 2019 general elections resulted in discord, with the BCP opting to contest independently in 2014 and the UDC facing defeat in 2019. The BCP is set to contest this year's elections outside the UDC, emphasizing the persistent absence of inner party democracy within the opposition.
Considering these factors, I can confidently predict the outcome of the 2024 general elections. While not claiming prophetic insight, it seems likely that figures such as the Leader of Opposition Hon Dithapelo Keorapetse, Hon Nevah Tshabang, and Hon David Tshere may lose their seats, not to the BCP but to the BDP. The UDC, aiming to prevent key figures from the BCP, including President Hon Dumelang Saleshando and others, from returning to Parliament, will face stiff competition from the BDP, potentially losing all mentioned seats.
Opposition Parties often repeat the same strategies and expect different results. We have consistently advised them on the necessary steps to pose a real challenge to the BDP. The opposition must first demonstrate the ability to govern themselves before aspiring to lead the country. Batswana, I urge you to register in large numbers as our democracy hinges on your participation.
Source: The Patriot
Author: by patriot
