My 2014 loss was suitable – Saleshando
Spira Tlhankane | Tuesday April 16, 2024 09:08
He suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Umbrella for Democratic Change's (UDC) Phenyo Butale in a David vs Goliath encounter.
Saleshando failed to retain the Gaborone Central MP seat, the constituency he had wrestled from Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) Margaret Nasha a decade before. Speaking at his presidential launch at Notwane Grounds in Gaborone over the weekend, the Maun West legislator said God allowed him to lose the 2014 General Election for a taste of defeat.
“The same way God decided to let his son Jesus taste death, I also went through the same as God allowed me to lose elections for the first time. Some say it was a bad time for me, but I differ. “It was a suitable time because God wanted me to learn. I want to thank Him for caring for me all these years,” the former UDC vice president said. Saleshando added that his life experiences show that he went through hardships that shaped the kind of person and politician he has become. The BCP president said this as he thanked everyone who contributed to and built his political career.
“I was under the hands of people who moulded and turned me into the person I am today. Like they say, it takes a village to raise a child,” he said. Saleshando indicated that he stands before Batswana ahead of the election for thorough scrutiny because he wants to be Botswana's next President.
“The presidency comes with a huge responsibility, so I challenge for the presidency at a time when the country is not doing well. I come at a time when many are unemployed, I come at a time when the education system is down,” he said. Saleshando said Batswana should go out there and vote in the 2024 General Election. He also emphasised that people who do not want to vote surrender to the same system that is failing them. He said by voting the BCP, Batswana will be voting for jobs and land. Saleshando said he is confident their party will pick up the 31 MP seats required to win government.