Leadership litmus test for BDP, BNF

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday September 15, 2025 13:10

With fresh central committees (CC) ushered in during their respective congresses, the pressure is now squarely on the new leaders to prove their mettle. Can they steer their parties towards the political 'Promised Land,' or will internal and external challenges derail their ambitions?

The stage is set for the Kgalagadi South constituency, where an upcoming by-election is poised to be the first real test of leadership for both parties. All eyes are on this unpredictable constituency, an area known for its political volatility and reluctance to stick with the same Member of Parliament (MP) for more than one or two terms.

In 2024, the UDC, for BNF, is an affiliate of, got 8700 votes, BDP 6070, and Botswana Patriotic Front 1074. Previously, in 2014 and 2019, the area was won by the BDP. The BNF had won it in 2009 and in 2024.

A unique constituency

Unlike more stable strongholds where MPs can enjoy re-election three or even four times, Kgalagadi South has a reputation for political shifts, often swinging between parties from one election to the next. This historical trend makes the forthcoming by-election especially significant, not just for the candidates, but also for the new leadership of both parties, hoping to demonstrate strategic competence. By-elections are rarely influenced by the momentum of the previous General Election. Instead, voters tend to focus more on immediate, tangible concerns, which are often referred to as 'bread and butter issues.' If residents of Kgalagadi South feel neglected, they would hesitate to express their dissatisfaction at the polls. This reality adds another layer of complexity for both parties.

The BNF’s balancing act

Currently, the ruling coalition, UDC, led by the BNF, faces an uphill battle. The party currently holds the seat, but the death of Dr. Micus Chimbombi, widely respected and highly qualified, has left a credibility gap that will not be easy to fill.

So far, the BNF appears to be relying on a sympathy wave in hopes of retaining the seat. But sympathy alone would not guarantee victory, particularly in a constituency that demands substance and delivery over sentiment.

To maintain stability and avoid internal rifts, the BNF is considering sidestepping a primary election altogether, a move aimed at ensuring cohesion and reducing the risk of internal fights. This is particularly crucial given the influence of the Western region within the party's internal politics. Known for its population density and organisational strength, Western has historically played a decisive role in determining both congress outcomes and candidate selections. Currently, five aspirants have expressed interest in contesting the by-election under the BNF banner. According to BNF chairperson Moses Bantsi, this high number is both promising and concerning.

“We are worried that this by-election has attracted so many aspirants. We hope the numbers will go down after we’ve engaged with all the candidates and party structures in the area. We aim to retain this constituency,” Bantsi said. The BNF leadership’s immediate challenge is to unify the party base and select a candidate who can both command respect and reflect the legacy of Dr. Chimbombi. This delicate balancing act could determine whether the BNF retains or loses its hold on the area.

BDP: No stone left unturned



Meanwhile, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) is equally determined to make a comeback in Kgalagadi South, a constituency it has won twice before. The former ruling party’s new leadership is keen to hit the ground running, and it views this by-election as a golden opportunity to prove it still has grassroots appeal in rural regions. BDP secretary-general, Kentse Rammidi, confirmed that the deadline for expression of interest (EOI) is this week. Once the EOI phase closes, the party will proceed with its internal selection process, culminating in a vigorous campaign aimed at reclaiming the seat.

“We are leaving no stone unturned. Once we conclude our primary elections, we’ll launch a full-scale campaign to win back this constituency,” said Rammidi.

This assertive tone from the BDP is indicative of a party unwilling to cede ground, especially in a region where its support base remains relatively strong. However, like their rivals in the BNF, the BDP will also need to present a compelling candidate who resonates with local voters and addresses their pressing issues. The BDP will have to prove to people that it is still strong and it can make a comeback in the 2029 General Election.

High stakes for both parties

This by-election is more than just a vote for a parliamentary seat; it is a symbolic referendum on the effectiveness and unity of the new leadership teams within both the BDP and BNF. For the BNF, internal management and candidate selection will be critical. For the BDP, strategic campaigning and a relatable candidate will be the key differentiators.

Given the swing nature of Kgalagadi South, both parties must tread carefully. The outcome will not only influence the composition of Parliament but could also set the tone for the 2029 General Election. Voters in this region are politically aware, unpredictable, and deeply concerned about daily survival, qualities that make campaign promises less important than delivery records.

A test of strategy, unity, and ground game

As the campaign season unofficially kicks off in Kgalagadi South, pressure is mounting. The BDP and BNF leadership now face a true political test: can they translate internal reforms and congress victories into actual votes on the ground? Or will local dynamics and candidate choices derail their ambitions?