29 Apr 2018

Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) deputy leader, Mr Dumelang Saleshando will contest for the Maun West Parliamentary seat in the upcoming 2019 general elections.

This was revealed during a recent press conference and a rally in Maun to welcome new members to the party amongst them councillor for Kgosing/Kubung, Mr Galaletsang Mhapa and political activist, Mr Lekonno Masuku who all resigned from Botswana Democratic Party (BDP).

Currently, Maun West constituency is under Batawana paramount chief, Mr Tawana Moremi who is not affiliated to any party following his resignation from Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD) and his announcement that he was retiring from politics.

Mr Saleshando who is also leader of the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) stated that a decision had been taken as people were wondering which constituency he would contest.

“I am coming back home to contest for Maun West as a decision has been taken. I know there are some concerns that I did not consult electorate in the constituency but I have not seen the need to do so as I am coming home,” he stressed.

In addition, he said although some people seemed not to be happy about the decision, he stated that the constituency needed a strong candidate who could bring change for the betterment of the community.

He said surveys had indicated that Ngamiland region was rich in natural resources that sustained the wealth of the country’s economy.

He said on the other hand, the communities were poverty stricken and he said that he was in a position to turn things around and ensure Ngamiland community benefitted from their wealth.

Mr Saleshando emphasised the need to fight challenges faced by the region such as poor academic results in schools.

He said the region needed particular attention to reverse corruption and ensure the riches here benefited all.

Asked about the status of UDC, Mr Saleshando was quick to point out that the coalition process was not an easy exercise noting that it was absolutely normal that there would be tension within the movement.

He said it was fortunate that they all knew there would be challenges and indifferences but at the end of the day, as a movement they had to face them all, strive for cooperation and focus on their goal of winning elections in 2019.

Mr Saleshando believed that UDC had all that it takes to win the coming election adding that “we are unstoppable because our party is a winning machine and I can assure you that we are heading towards victory”.

Furthermore, he explained that their ideas differentiated them from the ruling party as they put first the nation interest. He said at their party, they welcomed people without raising their hopes. ENDS