Makgalemele's alleged BPP 'interest' sparks mixed reactions
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday July 2, 2025 06:34
It is, therefore, not unusual to see a politician shift between multiple parties within a short period. In this context, the reported interest of former Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) member, Phillip Makgalemele, in willing to join the Botswana People's Party (BPP) has not come as a surprise to many.
Makgalemele is a former minister and had lost in the general elections from 2014. Therefore, life at his former party also has not been as easy as it was before.
Following the BDP’s loss of political power, it is widely acknowledged that some members are likely to defect in search of better prospects, often aligning with the ruling party in hopes of greener pastures.
However, BPP secretary-general Venta Galetshabiwe clarified the matter during an interview on Monday.
According to him, though Makgalemele has expressed interest in joining the BPP, there is a distinction between showing interest and formally applying.
“He has not yet applied for membership. Expressing interest and submitting an application are two different matters.
“So far, he has not filled in any membership form. At BPP, we have established procedures, and any applicant will be subject to scrutiny,” Galetshabiwe said.
He further explained that, as it stands, the party cannot comment definitively on Makgalemele’s potential membership, as he may still decide not to proceed with the application.
He acknowledged that they have received expression of interest letter from Makgalemele.
Interestingly, a letter dated June 24, 2025, and allegedly authored by Makgalemele, appears to state otherwise.
It reads: “Kindly accept this letter as my application for BPP membership with immediate effect. I look forward to working closely with you and the party membership in the exciting journey of the growth of the party.”
Efforts to get a comment from Makgalemele were not successful at Press Time.