BDP leadership split over independent oversight calls

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday May 7, 2025 06:00

He said such demands bypass the established procedures that every member is expected to follow when making official suggestions to the party's central committee.

Speaking to The Monitor on Sunday, Ngaka emphasised that he hadn't received any formal communication regarding the proposal for independent oversight.

“For the record, I haven't received any communication calling for an independent body. I only heard about it through conversations amongst members.

“Apparently, one of our members took to social media to make this suggestion. However, the central committee only acts on formally submitted correspondence,” he said.

The controversial suggestion was made in a recent social media post by Kabo Morwaeng, a candidate contesting for the position of BDP secretary-general position.

In his post, Morwaeng made an emotional appeal to the party leadership, urging them to consider involving an independent entity to oversee the election process.

“I appeal to the party leadership to take decisive steps that will strengthen and protect the unity and integrity of our party,” he wrote.

Notably, Morwaeng is one of four contenders vying for the secretary-general position. The competition has intensified as the party gears up for its elective congress, which is scheduled to take place over the weekend in Maun.

Importantly, the congress marks a historic shift, as it will be the first time the BDP convenes as an opposition party.

As the event approaches, tensions have risen within the party, with some members expressing concerns about fairness and transparency.

There is a growing perception that certain members of the central committee, who are still in office, might wield undue influence over the outcome of the elections. Such suspicions have fuelled calls for external oversight.

Nonetheless, Ngaka was quick to dismiss these concerns. He insisted that the majority of central committee members aren't candidates in the upcoming elections and have no interest in influencing the results.

“There is no truth to the claims that some members within the central committee are trying to manipulate the process. In fact, we all want to see a fair and transparent election that will leave the party united and speaking with one voice,” he said.

The candidates vying for the secretary-general role include Kentse Rammidi, Kabo Morwaeng and Pelotshweu Baeng.

The secretary-general said the BDP central committee would meet on Wednesday to iron out any issues that might be there and know how preparations are progressing.

The high number of contenders and the charged atmosphere underscore the importance of the upcoming congress in shaping the future of the BDP.

Ultimately, whilst social media continues to be a platform for expression, party leaders like Ngaka remain firm that any formal suggestions must go through the proper internal channels.

As the congress draws near, all eyes will be on Maun to see how the BDP will tread on its internal challenges and whether it will emerge stronger.