29 Apr 2024

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members in the South East Region have been urged to abide by the party constitution and remain loyal and steadfast to the party principles. 

Speaking during the BDP South East Regional congress in Tlokweng on April 28, the Acting President Mr Slumber Tsogwane said all card carrying BDP members who did not make the cut during the recent vetting process should not feel aggrieved but rather support those who are victorious and billed to participate in the Bulela Ditswe phase and finally represent the party at the General Election. 

Mr Tsogwane said the vetting process was a meticulous selection process that was conducted by the branches and the Central Committee. 

The announcement includes names of both parliamentary and council candidates who have succeeded the vetting process. 

He said the party recently made an announcement of their primary election candidates for the 2024 General Elections, which was finalised and was not to be appealed. 

“Those who were not successful should remain loyal to their party. Accountability is showing loyalty to your party against all odds. Factions reared their ugly heads in the past and did not yield the desired results,” he said. 

He urged the delegates to sell their party through their desired candidates and through promises that the BDP-led government had made to Batswana. 

Mr Tsogwane said they have programmes in place to develop the country and its people. 

He said since independence, rural development had remained a challenge for the government. 

He added that the BDP-led government was deliberate in prioritising rural development through the establishment of the Rural Development Policy. 

“Sustainable development is part of our plan. We encourage sustainable development through the provision of social services and welfare programmes with an intent of not leaving anyone behind. As aspiring candidates, during your campaign trail you should also make promises that reflect the party manifesto,” he said. 

Mr Tsogwane urged aspiring BDP candidates to be selfless in their service provision and abide by the Bulela Ditswe code of conduct. 

He appealed to democrats to defend the name of the party and that of President Mokgweetsi Masisi as the main target of criticism from their political opponents. 

He warned against indiscipline and said the party would deal with any undesirable behaviour. 

The Chairperson of the BDP Political, Education and Election Committee, Mr Alec Seametso said their party was a leading force in participatory democracy. 

He said those who succeeded the vetting process should prioritise untiy and discipline. 

He said the vetting process should be trusted and embraced as it was done by real cadres of the party who understood party traditions. 

The BDP South East comprises of Ramotswa, Kgatleng East, Kgatleng West, Kgatleng Central and Tlokweng. 

The regional committee retained their seats with Mr Mompati Pheto as chairperson, Mr Michael Masisi (vice), Mr Robert Panzirah (Secretary), Ms Veronicah Metseko (Vice secretary), Mr Riaz Jalal (treasurer) and Ms Matildah Kgaso (vice treasurer). Ends