Botswana is at a very crucial general election that pits the long-time ruling Botswana Democratic Party against what might be one of the greatest tests it has faced since its inception. Under President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who assumed power in 2018, BDP has adopted a slogan typically associated with opposition rhetoric, “Let’s change together and build prosperity for all.” This positioning indicates there is growing public discontent against the status quo, primarily because issues such as youth unemployment and economic inequality, among others, have frustrated many citizens into demanding a change.
Botswana is often praised as a model country ever since gaining its independence back in 1966 when it emerged as one of the most progressive countries on the African continent, much because of the diamond industries that had brought prosperity there. There is, however, economic concern. World demand for diamonds has come down, and inequality levels within the nation are still quite high: the Gini index ranking Botswana as one of the more unequal societies worldwide.
Pressure comes at a time when the BDP has changed its messaging amid pressure from opposition parties such as the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) and the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). The BCP accuses the government of merely packaging up job creation promises from its policies. The UDC, on the other hand, cautions against potential election irregularities, appealing to voters to protect their votes on election day.
In a strategically designed campaign, President Masisi drove to a rally in an electric vehicle produced at the local plant, anchoring his government’s resolve regarding economic renewal and sustainability. The opposition and criticisms notwithstanding, BDP still claims what have been some recent positive achievements: a better deal than obtained previously with De Beers that promises to result in an increase in share diamond revenues in Botswana to over ten years from now.
The opposition, though, remains divided, and that is something that will benefit the BDP. Under the “first-past-the-post” system, BDP may seize constituencies with a majority of votes if opposition votes are split. However, factionalism within the BDP itself presents even more problems as disaffected party members run as independents.
With high stakes and unpredictable outcomes, Botswana’s election could redefine the nation’s future, especially if enough voters are persuaded that the BDP can indeed deliver meaningful change.