BNF ‘compromise’ sparks tension

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday June 16, 2025 13:40

The most divisive issue currently shaking the party is the leadership’s proposal for a compromise model between lobby lists, a suggestion that has sparked frustration and resistance amongst many members. Although the party leadership has presented the idea of a compromise as a means of preventing potential destabilisation, members on the ground appear unconvinced. They argue that the model threatens to undermine internal democracy, a right they have long held and a tradition protected by the party’s constitution. Through various internal WhatsApp groups and ongoing grassroots campaign discussions, it has become apparent that many members feel strongly that any attempt to interfere with the electoral process will erode accountability and fairness within the party. The BNF, an affiliate of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), is preparing for its elective congress, scheduled for July this year. However, recent statements made by the leadership suggesting the need for harmony between contesting teams have been met with skepticism.

While the leadership’s concerns about party unity are not without merit, grassroots members feel that the remedy should not come at the cost of their democratic rights. According to one insider familiar with these conversations, the resistance stems largely from a desire for clear accountability. 'It is true members are not supportive of a compromise as they believe they want people whom they could hold accountable. Their view is that if the president interferes in the affairs of the party, then when he has a dispute with office bearers or when they fail to deliver, the members will blame him,' the source said. Despite that, discussions among members indicate that internal campaigning has remained respectful and issue-based. In various leaked conversations, members revealed that while there are differences in opinions and preferences during campaigns, those divisions typically dissolve after elections. However, members' view are that the competition is temporary and unity resumes once the leadership is elected. It is clearer that this belief fuels their argument that a compromise is unnecessary and potentially damaging to the internal democracy. Some members have also pointed out that the BNF has clearly outlined disciplinary procedures in place to deal with any behaviour that encourages unhealthy factionalism. Instead, they advocate for the continuation of open contests, with the assurance that unity can and will be restored afterward. In addition to the resistance towards a compromise, many members are expressing a desire for a stronger and more active Central Committee (CC). They argue that the party is in urgent need of leadership that is not only competent but also present and engaged with its membership.

For them, an effective CC is one that holds regular meetings, responds to member concerns, and takes visible action in advancing the party’s goals. Members also want to feel represented and heard, and they see the upcoming congress as an opportunity to elect leaders who are responsive, transparent, and committed to revitalising the party from the top down. The absence of regular engagement by the current committee has, according to many members, created a disconnect between the leadership and the base. Meanwhile, as the BNF congress approaches, the party finds itself at a crucial crossroads. Earlier on, the BNF chairperson Dr Patrick Molutsi said they have been meeting with different members from the two teams, one is led by Moeti Mohwasa/Stephen Modise and one for Ketlhalefile Motshegwa/Nelson Ramaotwana. “We are yet to meet the leaders of the two teams since they have been busy. Yes, we are preaching compromise to them but we are not forcing them. Currently, as the party we are happy with the way both teams are handling themselves. But we are drafting the temporary guide for conduct while preparing for elections because we want free and fair elections that would bring peace among members. Again, members must know that this is party internal process and we are still going to need each other,” Molutsi said.

He also said members who campaign for the teams must also read the party constitution and learn how they must conduct themselves during those internal campaigns. Furthermore, he said members must be reminded that teams are disbanded immediately after the elections and therefore they are not allowed to be carrying those temporary names they are using while campaigning.