25 Aug 2024

Vice president of Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Mr Ndaba Gaolathe, has appealed to Mmopane/ Metsimotlhabe constituents to place their faith in the UDC, as it was the only party that could enhance the social conditions of Batswana.

Speaking at the unveiling of the MP candidate for the constituency Ms Pushie Manyeneng and council candidates on Saturday at Mmopane, Mr Gaolathe emphasised the UDC’s steadfast commitment to delivering real, tangible benefits to the community, imploring voters to entrust the party with their votes and allowing it to fulfill its promises.

On the current state of affairs of the country, Mr Gaolathe expressed  concern over the alleged financial instability of the country, despite its abundance of mineral and natural resources. He noted that young people in particular, were suffering from high unemployment rate and lack of opportunities.

He therefore called on the youth to take control of their future and encouraged them to stand up and make their voices heard.

“The future of our country is in the hands of the youth,” he declared, “It is time to take responsibility, to demand more from our leaders, and to ensure that the wealth of this country is used to benefit all Batswana, not just a select few,” he said.

Mr Gaolathe praised the UDC candidate, Ms Manyeneng, highlighting her qualities as a woman of faith, a successful businesswoman, and someone who has dedicated her life to serving community.“Ms Manyeneng is a special woman, one who has the welfare of her people at heart,” he said. “She has a track record of service, and if she is elected to Parliament, I have no doubt that she will work tirelessly to improve the lives of all Batswana,” he said.

UDC treasurer Mr. Wynter Mmolotsi urged opposition supporters to remain united behind the UDC, cautioning them against splitting votes by supporting other parties. He emphasised the importance of voting strategically, pointing to the UDC as the only alternative party with the people’s interests at heart.

“We must unite and dethrone the ruling Botswana Democratic Party if we want to make progress,” he asserted. “Only with the UDC in power can we effectively address the scourge of youth unemployment, the crisis in our healthcare system, and the widespread corruption that is holding our country back,” he stated urging voters to act now, before it was too late.

Mr Mmolotsi praised Ms Manyeneng’s credentials as a qualified nurse and her dedication to healthcare.“Ms Manyeneng is not just a nurse by qualification, but a nurse at heart,” he said.

“Her background in healthcare makes her uniquely positioned to champion the rights of individuals to quality healthcare, and to effectively address the many issues facing our healthcare system today,” he emphasized.

Stepping forward to address the crowd, Ms Manyeneng took the oath to represent the voters truthfully and uphold the principles of the UDC. She also vowed to listen to the people of Mmopane/Metsimotlhabe constituency and work with them through regular consultations.

The UDC’s manifesto presents a vision for the future of the country promising to create thousands of jobs, increase wages, and improve public services.

According to the manifesto, the UDC pledges to create 450 000 to 500 000 jobs over the next five years, ensuring that Batswana are able to support themselves and their families. In addition, they promised to introduce a living wage of P4000, which may be increased as the economy improves. Furthermore, they plan to build 100 000 houses over the same period, addressing the shortage of affordable housing in the country. ENDS