07 Apr 2019

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) secretary general, Mr Mpho Balopi has applauded the outcome of the special congress and national council held in Kang over the weekend.

In an interview after the closed session of the national council on April 6, Mr Balopi said the two sessions were a success even after a court case in the 11^th hour, saying it did not dampen their spirits.

He said the national council deliberated on issues that had been persistent for a long time, and that led to some kind of ‘instability’ within the party.

He said through the delegate’s collective efforts, the council managed to pass a motion which called for a postponement of central committee elections from July 2019 to July 2020.

Mr Balopi, who is also BDP Gaborone North parliamentary aspirant,  said the postponement emanated from the fact that they were preparing for national elections which needed undivided efforts.

“Internal party elections also require immense and intensified campaigns, therefore, the two need to be separated for the party’s success,” he said.

He said deliberations also focused on issues that affected the private sector such as their condition of service that needed to be reviewed in order to create a conducive environment for them.

Furthermore, Mr Balopi said they applauded President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi for his efforts on consultations on the enrichment of government policies and programmes to secure a better future for Batswana.

Moreover, he mentioned that they also engaged on national issues such as water, health, infrastructure, education, and job creation opportunities for the youth.

On other issues, he said they were disturbed by some party members who elevated their issues to the courts of law.

He encouraged BDP members to adhere to the party’s constitution as well as follow the right channel of lodging complaints. He also appealed to them to support each other and to promote the party.

Meanwhile, he applauded the western region for hosting a successful event and the Kang community for their reception, saying they had no undesirable behaviours during the congress. ENDS