BCP eyes constitutional overhaul
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday August 13, 2025 08:36
To ensure thorough consultation, all proposed amendments have been circulated across the party’s regional branches. According to the party spokesperson, Mpho Pheko, the next major step is to convene a constitutional congress where these changes will be formally adopted.
In an interview on Monday, Pheko revealed that the constitutional congress is scheduled to take place in Francistown. However, the exact date remains undecided as the party awaits the submission of position papers from all regions.
“These documents will outline the specific clauses each region wishes to see amended. Only once this critical step is completed will the party submit the revised constitution to the Registrar of Societies for official approval,” she said.
Furthermore, she said the process is aligned with the stipulations of the current constitution, which mandates that all regions must have the opportunity to review and contribute their input on proposed changes.
“It is important that the entire party is engaged in this process to ensure our constitution reflects the collective will,” Pheko emphasised. Furthermore, the spokesperson said that the primary purpose of the constitutional congress is to ratify the proposed amendments.
She said that the party cannot hold an elective congress whilst the constitution is still under review and subject to change. “An elective congress will only be organised once the revised constitution has received formal approval,” she said.
Once the constitution is officially adopted, Pheko noted that some leadership portfolios may be eliminated or redefined in line with the new governance framework. This means that the party’s structure could see significant shifts as a result of the constitutional reforms.
Following the approval, the BCP will open up the campaign period for party positions. Pheko revealed that these campaigns will be conducted internally, with strict guidelines in place. For instance, members are prohibited from engaging in public branding or external promotional activities. Moreover, she said the party has taken a firm stance against any form of negative campaigning; members must refrain from tarnishing or attacking one another during the race for leadership roles.
“This approach fosters unity and ensures that our party remains focused on its core values and goals,” Pheko explained. She concluded by reaffirming the BCP’s commitment to a democratic and transparent process that encourages healthy competition whilst maintaining respect amongst members.