BDP could profit from UDC’s internal wrangles
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday July 17, 2024 17:06
If these disputes are not swiftly addressed, the apparently peaceful Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) may capitalise on the instability to retain control of the area. Molepolole South remains a highly contested constituency, with both the UDC and BDP having strong support bases. However, the current stability within the BDP in the area contrasts sharply with the turmoil within the UDC, giving the ruling party a potential edge. The discord within the UDC is primarily fuelled by members of the Botswana National Front (BNF), a key affiliate and traditionally strong force in Molepolole South. Despite the UDC having announced its official candidates, some BNF members are campaigning independently, leveraging the party’s banner and creating confusion amongst voters.
This infighting is not only undermining the unity of the UDC but also diluting its campaign efforts.
For the UDC to have a fighting chance against the BDP, it is crucial that these internal conflicts are resolved promptly and decisively. Failure to do so could result in the BDP consolidating its position in the constituency, much to the detriment of the opposition’s overall strategy. The BDP's decision to vet out Godfrey Sibisibi, leaving current MP, Kabo Morwaeng, unopposed for the primary elections has caused controversy. Many are concerned that this may disadvantage Morwaeng in the General Election due to perceived unfairness and internal party disputes. Similarly, the UDC candidate also skipped the primary elections, leading to internal conflicts and leaving some BNF members disgruntled. Moreover, two weeks ago, the UDC national executive committee (NEC) met with former area MP Tlamelo Mmatli, who claims to be the UDC candidate, to persuade him to accept the coalition's decision to give the area to the Alliance for Progressives (AP), a UDC affiliate. However, their efforts seem to have fallen on deaf ears, as Mmatli continues with his campaign. Consequently, this ongoing issue further confuses the electorate. The AP chairperson, Pius Mokgware, affirmed this, stating that they have met with the UDC members falsely claiming candidacy and urged them to cease such actions. He emphasised the confusion caused by these members, asserting that while the public knows the rightful candidate, appropriate action will follow once discussed by the UDC NEC. Mokgware expressed relief that the BNF members addressed the issue at their regional conference, ensuring clarity amongst their rank and file.
Nevertheless, he also expressed concern over the misuse of the UDC symbol, highlighting the ongoing disturbance caused by these actions. “All pending issues are going to be dealt with by NEC and appropriate action taken. Some members of the UDC NEC have met different members who have been de-campaigning other members or claiming that they are candidates to desist from their actions,” he said. While the BDP leaves no stone unturned in its aggressive campaign to reclaim the area, it is evident that Morwaeng is determined to secure victory at all cost, openly expressing his commitment. Throughout recent times and even last year, he has not had a free weekend, engaging in constituency activities to support the community while simultaneously campaigning tirelessly. Morwaeng attends every event and activity, recognising the critical importance of campaigning effectively at this juncture. Although the BDP has not yet held primary elections for council candidates, it is evident that competition in the area remains fierce. The local MP is working diligently to narrow any gaps and maintain voter confidence. The BDP lost the area to the opposition party, the UDC, in 2014 but reclaimed it in the 2019 General Election. This setback served as a stark reminder for the BDP not to take anything for granted, realising that voter preferences can be unpredictable and change swiftly if underestimated.
Meanwhile, the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), which traditionally has not shown much interest in contesting the area, is now testing its luck with Kagiso Gopolang. While its chances may seem slim, one cannot discount anything given the unpredictable nature of the electorate. Despite not being traditionally strong in that constituency, the BCP's organisational stability could work in its favour. Moreover, having completed its primaries and manifesto ahead of other parties, the BCP is positioning itself strategically for the upcoming elections. The coming weeks will be critical for the UDC in Molepolole South. The party's leadership is expected to navigate these challenges and restore cohesion if the coalition hopes to mount a successful campaign against the BDP. Mmegi has learnt that some of the internal fights within the BNF, which are now affecting the UDC, will be discussed over the holidays at the party's annual national conference which will be held at Ledumang Senior Secondary School. The conference's theme is: “BNF preparing for UDC victory in 2024 to usher change for Batswana.” Other UDC affiliates will be holding conferences to discuss issues affecting them and making some resolutions.