Addressing democrats for the last time as the President of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), former president Mokgweetsi Masisi has expressed optimism that the party will return to power in 2029 or even before that highlighting the current Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) led government’s failure to deliver on its promises.
He said though the 2024 results were disappointing, that was far from the signal for organisation’s immplotion. Masisi is of the view that the BDP remain the country’s largest political movement, with roots that stretch deeper than any single election and a record of achievement no rival can match.
“Considering the numbers in their proper light, the UDC secured 37% of the popular vote, while we earned 30% which is a gap of just 56 230 votes, barely 7% in a nation of more than two million of which the majority was registered to vote.
According to him, that margin is significant in terms of forming government, yet it is entirely bridgeable. With disciplined listening, honest learning, and active re- engagement in every ward, the former president believes that they can still transform the party into a platform for victory.
He appealed to democrats to treat the moment as the turning- point that equips them for a confident return to service in 2029 and well beyond.
“The current government promised rapid change; eight months on, many citizens still await the progress they were assured. Our response must be to show what competent, compassionate governance looks like, never in anger, always in hope. By listening carefully, learning humbly, and engaging boldly, we will prepare the ground for a decisive return to office in 2029.”
He appealed to democrats that united behind the newly elected President and the Central Committee, they should begin a fresh chapter of purposeful service. Masisi told them that their task is to hold the current administration to account firmly, fairly, and always with the interests of Batswana at heart.
“Government is measured not by explanations or excuses but by solutions, and where shortcomings appear we should present constructive, data-driven alternatives: more jobs, stronger growth, reliable energy, sound public finances, and modern digital infrastructure.”
The former president advised democrats that they should undertake this work not as an opposition bloc, but as the Immediate Past Government and custodians of a proven record. He stressed that the legacy equips us to offer credible, forward-looking policies whenever the nation requires them.
“This moment is as significant as the early 1960s when the BDP was first conceived. I therefore urge our new leadership to begin tomorrow on a manifesto that speaks directly to the needs and aspirations of every Motswana. Let it rest on integrity, practical service, and an unwavering commitment to opportunity for all.”
Masisi is of the view that the party must transform, but noted that transformation must remain anchored in our founding principles of Democracy, Development, Self-reliance, Unity, and Botho.
“I leave this stage with confidence in the BDP and in the people of this great nation. We have been tested before and we have risen before. We will rise again. Our task now is to organise, to innovate, and to uphold the values that have always defined us.”
For his part, former vice president Slumber Tsogwane said there is need for the renew of BDP policies for it to rise. He said the theme that guided the Congress is Rebuild · Renew · Rise was very fitting and timely as voters last year sent them a message.
“We can hang our heads, nursing the bruises of that defeat, or we can do what Batswana have always done in the face of challenge which is to stand up, dust ourselves off, and move forward together. Democracy’s greatest gift is the promise of another opportunity. Our next opportunity arrives in 2029, and we must be ready to seize it.”
