BPF Youth and Women's League elections loom amidst uncertainty
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday February 18, 2026 06:01
With the elective congress scheduled for next month, expectations are high following the postponement of last year’s event. This came after some youth last year destroyed the ballot box, and were then fined for disrupting the elective congress, which was held at Molepolole. This was the party's first attempt at holding both Youth and Women’s Leagues congresses.
The party’s secretary-general, Dr Malefho Kolaatamo, told The Monitor on Sunday about the delay in submissions.
“It’s true that some members have not yet submitted their names for the Expression of Interest,” he stated. However, he reassured that the deadline, set for March 15, 2026, remains well within reach. 'Members still have ample time, and some are simply preoccupied with campaigns and forming teams to run for office. All of this takes considerable time and effort,' he explained.
Despite the remaining window, Kolaatamo cautioned that there would be no extensions.
“The deadline is final. If individuals or teams fail to submit by then, they will be ineligible to contest in the elections,” he warned. In addition to the deadline, Kolaatamo emphasised the importance of adhering to the BPF’s constitution.
'It is essential for all candidates to meet the requirements outlined in the party constitution. Any failure to do so will result in disqualification,' he said, underlining the party's commitment to maintaining order and integrity.
He further explained that both Youth and Women’s League elections require candidates to ensure the eligibility of delegates as stipulated by the constitution. 'Delegates must be submitted on time, and no last-minute additions will be allowed. We are committed to preparing the voter rolls well ahead of the Congress,' Kolaatamo said.
Finally, he reassured party members that any queries would be resolved promptly.
'All concerns will be addressed in a timely manner, ensuring a smooth and fair election process,' he stressed.
With the clock ticking down to the BPF’s critical congress, the party now faces the challenge of ensuring that all candidates are properly vetted and that the election process runs smoothly and without delays.
However, The Monitor has learnt that the majority of teams that were willing to contest last year are busy on the ground trying to check for their support.