20 Jan 2025

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members have been urged to rebuild and grow the party as they prepare for the 2029 general elections.

 This was said by the party leader Dr Mokgweetsi  Masisi at the BDP South West region consultative meeting held in Jwaneng on Sunday. He said following their catastrophic loss in last year’s general elections, it was important for them to introspect and map a way forward in order to reclaim power in 2029.

Dr Masisi noted that even though his party had a robust manifesto aimed at improving people’s lives, it was evident that the majority of Batswana were more confident on the lucrative promises of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).

However, he said his government did its best under the circumstances, considering the financial effects caused by COVID-19.

“Botswana’s economy recovered fastest under the BDP government and we lured investors into our country as we geared towards a knowledge-based economy. Our country became 65 per cent self-sufficient in two years post COVID-19,” he said.

He attributed part of their loss to internal conflicts emanating from primary elections processes and outcomes, among other factors. He underscored the need for members to be disciplined as they rebuild the party towards victory.

“I urge you to desist from internal fights but instead be united, reliable and remain loyal to the organisation. Go and encourage others to work together to grow the party because your job as a member is to bring in key members,” he noted.

Additionally, he noted that plans were underway to capacitate the party’s key position holders such as chairpersons, secretaries and treasurers to build robust party structures.

He said leadership required special skills and attributes, hence the plan was to embark on impactful training sessions before July this year. Furthermore, he warned BDP members against campaigning for central committee positions prematurely, stating that such behaviour is against the party policy.

“Such campaigns are against our policy and therefore the perpetrators will be disqualified,” he said. In his welcome remarks, the BDP South West chairperson, Mr Koolopile Pema, said there was need to educate members on leadership positions and their mandate.

This, he said,  would not only assist in executing their duties but would also go a long way in empowering them to work well with members and build the party in their areas. ENDS