In the 1999 and 2004 general elections, the BCP only had one MP but after a impressive performance in the last polls, the party now feels confident because of better numbers in Parliament. Gaborone Central MP and BCP publicity chief, Dumelang Saleshando, the party's sole legislator in the last Parliament, says that more numbers means greater visibility.
"I think it will be an exciting five years. I think a team of five is going to be more effective than one," says the BCP spokesman. He states that they will introduce a new system in Parliament where the opposition will have spokespersons on different sectors. Each BCP MP will have a specific sector that he will be dealing with.
Saleshando says they cannot call the new system a shadow cabinet because the MPs will be carrying bigger responsibilities. In the new dispensation, Saleshando, who doubles as opposition chief whip, will handle issues of housing, mining, trade and economic management.
His father and BCP president, Gilson Saleshando will deal with matters of democracy, civil liberties, government and foreign affairs.
The MP for Chobe, Gibson Nshimwe will lead debates on tourism and industrial relations. The Ngami MP, Taolo Habano will deliberate on issues of agriculture and rural development. Bagatalia Arone of Okavango will be the BCP spokesman on education, youth and health.
Dumelang says that they expect their MPs to develop greater competence in the areas they will be handling. The MPs will not be prevented from discussing other issues.
Dumelang says they have put together teams of party experts to assist the MPs. The BCP has agreed to cooperate with other opposition MPs with which they will hold joint caucus meetings.
Dumelang says the Botswana National Front (BNF) MPs and the independent MP, Nehemiah Modubule have assured them of their cooperation. He is confident that their cooperation will result in greater organisation for the opposition in Parliament. The BCP was formed in 1998 after a fallout in the BNF.
