- Party blames him for election loss and it seeks a new direction
LETLHOGILE MPUANG
Former president Mokgweetsi Masisi is under growing pressure from members of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) to step down as party leader.
Following the BDP’s historic defeat in the recent general elections, many party members – especially unsuccessful candidates – are calling for Masisi and the Central Committee (CC) to make way for new leadership to restore unity and rebuild for the future.
Inside sources say several party structures have formally requested that both Masisi and the CC, including Chairman Slumber Tsogwane, resign immediately.
Handling of primaries
Members are advocating for an interim committee to guide the party through a transitional period, with elections for a new Central Committee sought for next year.
One of the primary criticisms is Masisi’s management of pre-election issues, particularly the decision to prevent primary election losers from protesting, allegedly leading to defections.
“Those who lost in the primaries took their supporters and backed opposition candidates, contributing to our defeat,” one insider claimed.
Little time for reconciliation
Further discontent surrounds the timing of the primaries. Sources say advisors cautioned that early primaries could lead disgruntled candidates to defect, potentially giving opposition parties an advantage.
Critics argue the early timeline left little room for party reconciliation before the general elections.
BDP secretary general Kavis Kario has acknowledged members’ frustrations but defends the CC’s decision to remain until its extended term ends in 2025.
Structural challenges
“Our members are understandably disappointed, and they have every right to be,” he stated in a telephone interview yesterday. However, he emphasised that immediate resignation could cause serious structural challenges within the party.
Kario noted that the BDP National Council extended the mandate of all active structures by 12 months during its September meeting. He also clarified that appointing an interim committee would pose a conflict as “the president would essentially be replacing himself”.