Botswana elections

Botswana heads to the polls on Wednesday, facing a pivotal election that will decide whether the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) can maintain its 58-year grip on power. Analysts suggest this election is particularly unpredictable, as the country grapples with an economic downturn due to declining demand for diamonds, a crucial resource. The opposition criticizes the BDP for its lengthy tenure, accusing it of economic mismanagement and corruption—claims the party denies. Many young voters in the capital, Gaborone, hope for change that will bring employment opportunities. While Botswana is generally regarded as having low corruption and good governance, public confidence in the government is waning. “I’m a graduate but still unemployed. I hope this election will lead to a brighter future,” said resident Maitshwarelo Ditsebe. With unemployment exceeding 27% and youth unemployment over 45%, there is a strong desire for change. “I hope the party I vote for will create jobs for young women,” added Gaborone resident Boago Sentsho. President Mokgweetsi Masisi of the BDP is seeking a second and final term, competing against three challengers, including Duma Boko from the opposition coalition Umbrella for Democratic Change, who has promised to significantly raise the minimum wage and enhance social grants. The election will determine the composition of parliament, with voters casting ballots for 61 National Assembly seats and 609 local council seats. Polling stations open at 6 AM on Wednesday.

Botswana’s High Court has confirmed that four presidential candidates will compete in next month’s general elections. Incumbent President Mokgweetsi Masisi is among them, seeking a second and final term. Under Botswana law, presidential candidates must demonstrate to the chief justice that they have sufficient support to be eligible. The High Court verified that four out of five potential candidates met this requirement. Addressing party supporters outside the court on Monday, Masisi expressed confidence in his victory. “We have completed the nomination process in the High Court,” he stated. “While we are all equal before the law, politically we are superior. Let us show the opposition that we are stronger.” Duma Boko, leader of the opposition coalition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), warned that his party would not tolerate a rigged election. In 2019, Boko claimed that the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) had stolen the election. “If the election is free and fair, we will accept the outcome. But if it mirrors the situation in 2019, we will reject the results,” he stated. Boko urged voters to remain vigilant against any irregularities. The UDC will enter the October 30 polls without the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), which left the coalition last year over differences. BCP spokesperson Mpho Pheko expressed optimism about their chances, saying, “For the BCP, 2024 presents the best opportunity to change the government in Botswana.” She emphasized that completing the nomination process brings excitement and hope for their message to resonate with Batswana, the citizens of Botswana. The president in Botswana is elected indirectly by parliament, with recent proposals for direct voting rejected after national consultations. The confirmed candidates are Masisi, Duma Boko, Dumelang Saleshando from the BCP, and Mephato Reatile from the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF). Biggie Butale from the smaller Botswana Republican Party did not meet the necessary requirements.