BDP presidential race heightens
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday March 3, 2025 13:18
The number of those vying for the position appears to be growing, with five members already publicly expressing their interest. Unlike in the past, when the party was in power, the competition among contenders seems set to be much fierce this time. The current party chairperson, Slumber Tsogwane, along with Dorcas Makgato, Ame Makoba, and Mpho Balopi, have already thrown their hats into the ring. Party insiders suggest that the number of contenders may continue to rise, as others are still in discussions with fellow party members. While some of the declared candidates are diligently working to secure their support lists, time is now of the essence. This urgency has been amplified by the recent change in the schedule for the extraordinary congress, which was initially planned for July. The congress, according to party president Mokgweetsi Masisi, will now take place in Maun. When briefing the media on Tuesday at Maharaja Hotel, Masisi urged party members to actively assist in the preparations, saying, 'even if we are going to Maun, I want to urge party members that they need to assist. Life is no longer the same, as those who used to help us are gone due to our loss of power. We now only have four Members of Parliament and fewer councillors who pay monthly subscription fees. Therefore, things are no longer business as usual,' he noted.
Makgato, one of the presidential contenders believes it is time for the BDP to engage in internal discussions and reposition itself as a whole. She emphasised that if elected, her primary focus would be on reconciling party members. 'We lost because members were angry with one another. We need to reconcile, even with those who have left the party. That will help us rebuild,' she said in an interview on Tuesday. According to Makgato, open conversations are essential to understanding the root causes of the party's issues, which will then enable them to resolve them. She pointed out that at this critical juncture, every member’s voice must be heard. In addition to fostering reconciliation, Makgato mentioned that a review of the party's constitution would be considered to determine its relevance and necessity. She also highlighted the importance of examining the party's structures to ensure they are effective and conducive to progress. One common concern, she noted, is the concentration of power in a single individual, and many members are advocating for change in this regard. Makgato expressed her desire for a party that is truly driven by the people. Her candidacy marks a significant moment, as she becomes the second woman in the BDP history to seek a high leadership position, following in the footsteps of Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, who previously raised her hand for the same role. As for Makoba, he believes that the BDP's future hinges on three fundamental pillars being renewal, rejuvenation, and a shared future. His vision, grounded in these principles, aims to reshape the party and make it truly representative of all its members.
On renewal, he seeks to overhaul the way the party operates. He envisions a new structure where power is no longer concentrated solely in the hands of the president and central committee. “The time has come, to decentralise power and give authority to other party officials and structures”. He added. This, he believes, will create a more balanced and inclusive environment within the party. The Council of Elders should be granted the authority to summon the leadership and hold them accountable for their actions. “Leadership must be accountable,” he said. He noted they need a system where all party officers are clearly defined so that the burden doesn’t fall solely on the Central Committee. On rejuvenation, he said it s all about revitalising the party and ensuring it remains relevant in the changing political landscape. Makoba recognizes that the BDP must be more present in public discourse. “We need to engage more, debate more, and use media platforms to communicate with the people,” he stressed.
He said the party must create space for young, talented individuals. “We cannot afford to ignore the energy and fresh ideas of our younger generation,” he says. At the same time, Makoba acknowledges the wisdom of the elders, but insists that it should be used in support of the youth, guiding them from behind the scenes. Above all, he said his agenda will remain grounded in the BDP’s core principles: Democracy, Development, Self-Reliance, Unity, and Botho, but with a sharper focus on the needs and aspirations of the people. On his shared future pillar, he said it includes a commitment to ensuring that every BDP member feels a sense of ownership. He wants a BDP that is not only relevant today but is also ready to face the challenges of tomorrow. The current chairperson, Tsogwane, emphasised the importance of unity for the party's progress. He said: 'The party requires someone of my calibre, someone who understands the ongoing situation, to ensure things move smoothly in the right direction. The party lost due to its members, but if we unite, we can work together effectively. Naturally, I support the issue of constitution review.' He also said the BDP can come back if it re-organises itself and puts proper party structures in place. He, however, said there are more things that he would do for the party if voted president. Although there are party members actively campaigning for Balopi, attempts to reach him for a comment were unsuccessful, as he did not answer his phone.