THE FIGHT FOR DEMOCRACY
The outcome of this year's election in Botswana will be a signal for the rest of Africa, you have the power to help us shape what that signal will be.
For 58 years, the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has held an unwavering grip on power. However, the cracks in their leadership have become increasingly apparent. Over the last ten years spying on judges and civil servants has become the norm and corruption has been on the rise. A staggering 79% of Batswana believe that the government is plagued by corruption, and approval ratings have plummeted to historic lows.
The once-bright beacon of democracy in Africa is now threatened by the looming shadows of authoritarianism.
ERODING DEMOCRACY
A new constitution currently going through Parliament would give the President the power to directly appoint 10 Members of Parliament. 15% of all seats would have no democratic election at all.
The government is proposing that the new constitution would be voted on by a simple majority in parliament rather than a democratic referendum as should be the case.
The proposed constitution has had almost no input from civil society
The government are refusing to allow counting of votes at the polling stations leaving the process open to rigging
Opposition parties, such as BCP, have noted that they are not being allowed access to the electoral role.
THE POWER OF HOPE
But amidst this darkness, there is a glimmer of hope. Under the steadfast leadership of Dumelang Saleshando, the BCP stands ready to break the BDP's nearly six-decade stranglehold on power. We carry forward the legacy of our founder, the late Michael Dingake, who tirelessly fought for a free and just Africa. The BCP remains unwavering in our commitment to social democratic values, integrity, and transparency.
With over 200,000 members, the BCP have the power to create historic change. If the BDP win, it will not be through a fair fight.
