02 Jul 2015

President Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama is expected to officially open the 36^th national congress of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in Mmadinare today (July 3).

A statement from the BDP office stated that the congress would be graced by fraternal guests from South Africa’s African National Congress, Chama-Cha-Mapinduzi of Tanzania, FRELIMO of Mozambique, Jubilee Coalition of Kenya, LCD/ABC/BNP of Lesotho, Angola’s MPLA, Patriotic Front of Zambia, SWAPO Party of Namibia and Zimbabwe’s African National Union Patriotic Front.

The guest parties would deliver solidarity messages during the congress. Proceedings of the day will include remarks by party chairperson, Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe at a closed session to be attended by observers and delegates.

BDP secretary general, Mr Mpho Balopi, and treasurer, Mr Satar Dada, would deliver reports on their respective portfolios at the closed door meeting. 

Furthermore, Mr Peter Siele will present a report on the reviewing of Bulela Ditswe, the party’s primary elections system, and to give a full report of the 2014 general elections.

The council and congress will be themed Party Unity and Coherence – Essential for Moving Botswana Forward.  Prior to the congress, the party held a special national council that discussed motions and resolutions of the 53^rd national council that was held in Gaborone in March.  ENDS