BPF targets growth, discipline, 2029
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday December 10, 2025 06:00
Speaking at the party leadership forum on Saturday at the University of Botswana, party president Lawrence Ookeditse emphasised that the time has come for the party to grow, establish a solid foundation, and have a clear ideology.
“This is a crucial moment for BPF. I want every member to understand that no individual is bigger than the party, not me, not our Members of Parliament (MP),” he said.
“Our immediate goal is to increase the number of councillors from 45 to 100 by the 2029 General Election. This is achievable if we start taking ourselves seriously and commit to disciplined growth.”
Ookeditse went on to stress that party unity and adherence to decisions are now non-negotiable.
“From this point forward, no MP or councillor will be allowed to act against the party caucus or violate its agreements. We will not hesitate to expel anyone who refuses to follow leadership. We are serious because we are rebuilding the party from the ground up,” he warned.
When highlighting the main obstacle that has historically hindered BPF’s growth, Ookeditse pointed to indiscipline. He called on councillors and MPs to begin paying their monthly subscriptions immediately, emphasising that their positions are a direct result of the party’s support and infrastructure. “Accountability is key if we are to achieve our targets,” he added.
Furthermore, he revealed that the party has established an official office and will soon begin issuing membership cards. However, he made it clear that no membership cards will be issued just two or three months before the primary elections, as such late joiners would not be considered genuine party members.
“Ga re bate bo ntodisa meletswana,” he said, reinforcing the party’s commitment to discipline, loyalty, and long-term growth.
With these measures, BPF aims not only to expand its political footprint but also to build a more united and disciplined party structure. Recently, the BPF has been known for internal fights that end up being at court. Some party members had been barred from using party colours and logos to hold meetings or even to call themselves an interim party National Executive Committee.