After 58 years in a democratic led Botswana government, a new political party has emerged victorious to rule the landlocked Southern African country. This fate came following the 30th October 2024 general elections where over one million electorates anonymously elected the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) led by President elect Adv. Duma Gideon Boko.
UDC, a coalition of Botswana National Front (BNF), Alliance for Progressives (AP) and Botswana Peoples Party (BPP) agreed for a formulated mutual arrangement to oust the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) led by the outgoing and former president Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi.
Celebrated in Africa as one of the longest democracies with no warfare, Batswana felt the tension and growing economic constraints to propel a new government.
Boko who started the idea of the coalition of the opposition parties following the 2011 public servants strike has fought vigorously to see the winds of change sweeping off the BDP in a landslide results.
UDC amassed a convincing 36 seats , enough to secure a majority number of 31 members of parliament, while the Botswana Congress Party led by Dumelang Saleshando won 14 seats and Botswana Patriotic Front secured 5 seats in the parliamentary house. The BDP narrowly gotten 4 seats and one independent candidate.
Former president Masisi had earlier phone called President Adv. Boko to assure him his support in the new era and conceeded defeat, citing the campaign as a ”good race” between the two rival parties leading to elections.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the new President-Elect, Adv. Duma G. Boko, on his victory. It has been a privilege to serve and lead this great nation, and I am profoundly grateful for the trust you placed in me.
As we celebrate this democratic milestone, I urge all citizens to unite and support the incoming administration. Together, let us uphold the values of peace and ensure a smooth and seamless transition. This moment is a testament to our commitment to democracy and the strength of our nation. Wishing you all the best”, said Masisi.
Meanwhile, President Elect Advocate Duma Boko was officially sworn in by Chief Justice Terrence Rannowane as the sixth President of Botswana at the High Court today at High Court in Gaborone.
When addressing a packed BTV auditorium after the swearing in, Adv. Boko highlighted the importance of taking oath without delay, stating that any postponement would leave the country without a leader.
He expressed his commitment to following Section 37 of the Constitution of Botswana , which states, ‘A person assuming the office of President shall, before entering upon the duties of that office, take and subscribe such oaths as may be prescribed by Parliament.
