02 Sep 2024

The 2024 Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) election manifesto is a forward-thinking and realistic programme grounded in the realities faced by Batswana.

Officially launching the manifesto and BDP prospective parliamentary and council candidates for the coming general elections in Tlokweng on September 1, His Excellency President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi said the manifesto was not just a collection of promises, but an achievable plan based on realities.

President Masisi, who is also the leader of the ruling BDP, launched 54 of the 61 BDP parliamentary hopefuls.

Good Hope/Mmathethe, Serowe South, Lentsweletau/Lephephe, Okavango West, Kanye East, Gaborone Bonnington South and Tati West constituencies did not have prospective parliamentary candidates due to pending appeals following the recent primary election results.

President Masisi said his government was unwavering in its resolve to shape a thriving future and would direct efforts towards key areas that would drive the nation to growth, opportunities and enduring progress for all Batswana.

 “Our brightest days are yet to come. We are dedicated to bringing about tangible improvements in the lives of our people. To support our local entrepreneurs and empower the informal sector, we will be implementing several key initiatives,” he said.

He said regulations would be amended to ensure that medium and large businesses were prohibited from selling traditional Tswana cuisine, thereby protecting smaller local vendors. 

He also said specific areas would be designated in urban and rural areas for informal food vendors, adding that they would further update guidelines to strengthen the sector. 

“As a first step forward, through the Chema Chema Fund, we are investing P50 million to develop market centres with essential amenities across the country,” he noted.

He said the manifesto, themed: Changing Together, Building Prosperity, was not just a political document, but a blueprint for a future where every Motswana could thrive. 

He said voting for the BDP was voting for a vision of hope and a commitment to building a nation where no one was left behind.

He described the launch as a celebration of a collective resolve and a reaffirmation of a commitment to the principles and values that have guided the BDP since its inception. 

The President added that it was time to reflect on their journey and to achievements, as well as setting the course for a future filled with hope. 

For his part, party chairperson and Vice President, His Honour Slumber Tsogwane said all aspiring BDP candidates were an embodiment of the party’s commitment to democracy, service, selflessness and prosperity for the nation.

Mr Tsogwane promised that pending appeal cases would be resolved in the coming week and an announcement made. Ends