BCP CC leaves Samoka furious
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday July 2, 2025 06:38
During the congress, a highly competitive race resulted in a tie between Samoka and Tebogo June, with both candidates receiving 194 votes each.
The third contender, Bonnie Tlhagwane, trailed behind with 91 votes.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the CC later announced a final verdict that Samoka believes was influenced by internal lobbying.
Speaking to The Monitor on Monday in an interview, Samoka highlighted that there has been a 'plan to endorse comrade June for this position'.
'It is disheartening that results were altered at the CC level, even though the outcome was clear during the congress. This is sad. I will assess whether this matter is worth pursuing further,” he said.
Moreover, Samoka emphasised his frustration over the party's communication strategy.
Instead of informing the affected candidates directly, the party issued a public statement to the media, a move he describes as inconsiderate and disrespectful.
According to a recent press release dated June 30, 2025, “after thorough consideration of all relevant reports and objections, the Election Committee unanimously declared Comrade Tebogo June as the duly elected President of the BCP Youth League”.
This followed a BCP CC meeting held on June 28, where it resolved to announce the outcome of the party’s Youth League presidential election on behalf of the Election Committee.
The Election Committee was duly convened the same day and mandated to formally declare the results of the Youth League election held on June 21, 2025.
The final results that it announced read:
• Tebogo June – 195 • Bonnie Tlhagwane – 91 • Brian Samoka – 194 • Spoilt Ballots – 7
Total Ballots Cast: 487
Furthermore, it called upon the youth of the BCP to work together in unity and collaboration to champion the interests of young people across Botswana, especially those who continue to be economically marginalised by current government policies and practices.