03 Oct 2024

Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) leader, Advocate Duma Boko, has emphasised the importance of Section 3 of Botswana’s Constitution, which guarantees every citizen rights such as life, liberty, and legal protection.

Advocate Boko  made the remarks during the recent launch of UDC’s Tati West Parliamentary candidate, Mr Justin Hunyepa and  prospective council candidates.

The UDC leader stated that these rights belonged to every individual, regardless of their background, and should not be contingent upon favour from government officials.

“This is a right that is not bought or solicited from anyone,” he insisted, urging citizens to recognie and demand their inherent rights without hesitation.

Addressing issues of livelihood, Adv. Boko underscored that the right to life extends to a dignified existence, which includes a sustainable income and access to land for residential and agricultural purposes.

He highlighted the plight of elderly individuals over 60 years who were subjected to hard labour under harsh conditions for minimal pay.  “These people are sent to the bush to sweep roads in dreadful weather, which is an abuse of their rights and dignity,” he lamented, referring to the meager wage of P564 that they receive.

He criticised the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) government, alleging a deliberate cap on pension increases below P600, a sum he claimed was considered insufficient against the minimum wage of P1 084.

He promised voters that under UDC leadership, the old age pension would rise to P1 800 by the end of November, saying  this increase should  not  be regarded as a favour but as government’s obligation to ensure dignity.

In addition to pension reforms, Adv. Boko promised a national school feeding programme that would provide breakfast and lunch to students, alleviating concerns for parents about their children’s nutrition.

He urged UDC supporters to mobilise  public   against  voting for BDP in upcoming elections, encouraging vigilance at polling stations to safeguard against potential vote rigging.

Former BOSETU President, Mr Eric Ditau, echoed Adv. Boko’s sentiments, calling for the BDP’s removal from power due to its detrimental impact on agriculture and public service pensions.

He outlined three pivotal pillars for change: the youth, employees still living in poverty, and the marginalised poor, asserting that change must originate from those who are oppressed.

Ms Susan Ntobedzi, a youth representative from Tati West Constituency, expressed confidence in a UDC victory.

She promised that if elected, the party would create 100 000 jobs within a year and provide free sanitary pads to girls, in addition to implementing a P4 000 minimum wage.

Mr Motlatsi Molapisi, the UDC national chairperson, urged party members to rally behind the Tati West candidate, asserting that UDC stands as a champion for their rights. 

He reiterated the UDC’s commitment to combating poverty, unemployment, and inadequate healthcare, asserting that a brighter future is possible with their support.

Mr Molapisi said as the election approaches, the UDC’s message of hope and change resonates within the constituencies, setting the stage for a contentious electoral battle ahead. Ends