- Central Committee divided over Serame suggestion
- She lacks the support of BDP backbenchers
- Serame to run in Goodhope-Mmathethe primaries
LETLHOGILE MPUANG
A large section of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) is reportedly against President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s apparent plan of nominating the Minister of Finance, Peggy Serame, as his vice after the 2024 general elections.
While reports of Serame taking over from Vice President Slumber Tsogwane next October appears to be gaining traction within the party, some democrats have found the prospect hard to deal with.
This publication has learned that even the Central Committee is divided over Serame becoming Masisi’s Number Two and that some of them have even vowed not to support her nomination if it comes.
Stamina
“She is still new in politics,” said an influential party member. “I believe she does not have the stamina to lead a party like this one.”
According to other sources, the allegation that Serame and Masisi are related makes the situation more complicated. “Rumour is that they are related,” said one.
“If at all that is true, it is going to cause a lot of problems. Remember we had a similar problem with Ian Khama wanting his brother Tshekedi to take over after him. If he does nominate her it is going to divide the party.”
A faction led by Tsogwane’s sympathisers is already reportedly forming. It is believed that Tsogwane, who is also chairman of the party, is keen to hold onto his position and ultimately succeed Masisi as president.
The Botswana Gazette understands that most of Tsogwane’s sympathisers are among the party’s backbenchers in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Serame is expected to run in primary elections for Goodhope-Mmathethe. Although no one has officially announced their candidacy in accordance with party policy, she is expected to face the health minister Edwin Dikoloti and Fankie Motsathebe.
Incumbent MP Eric Molale is also yet to clearly state whether or not he intends to defend his seat.
The chief spokesperson of the BDP, Kagelelo Kentse, had not responded to questions regarding dates of the party’s primaries at the time of going to press.