Dow unveils team, targets 2029 victory
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Wednesday April 29, 2026 06:00
She emphasised that leadership within the BCP should not be defined by longevity alone, but by the value individuals bring to the organisation. According to Dow, her team comprises capable men and women drawn from varied professional and political backgrounds, all committed to advancing the party’s agenda.
Dow will be facing incumbent vice president Taolo Lucas, who is seeking a second term in the same portfolio. “It is not about how long one has been in the party, but rather what one can offer,” she said. “The BCP has a strong, progressive culture, and no one can easily derail it. What is important is that the party continues to grow and embraces new members with an open heart.”
Her remarks come at a time when internal campaigns ahead of the party’s elective conference in July are intensifying, with different lobby groups seeking to consolidate support.
Against this backdrop, Dow positioned her team as forward-looking and inclusive, arguing that renewal is essential for political relevance.
Meanwhile, she pointed to what she described as a recent surge in membership, particularly from former supporters of the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). She argued that this influx reflects growing disillusionment within rival political formations.
“Recently, we have seen significant growth, with people joining us from the UDC in search of a political home,” she said. “This is largely due to a lack of trust in their leadership. It also demonstrates that people respect the values and principles of the BCP.”
Furthermore, Dow maintained that the party must harness this momentum by strengthening its internal systems and clarifying its policy positions. In this regard, she outlined her vision should she be elected vice president at the upcoming congress.
Notably, she pledged to introduce a dedicated policy forum that would allow party members to actively shape BCP’s policy direction.
She argued that whilst the party’s constitution and manifesto provide guidance, there remains a need for structured platforms where members can deliberate on emerging and contentious national issues.
“At the moment, we are guided by our manifesto and constitution,” she explained. “However, there are critical issues on which the BCP must take a clear position. 'A policy forum would help members articulate what they want the party to stand for, especially if we attain state power.”
Amongst the issues she highlighted were capital punishment for murder and the handling of defilement cases, topics she said require clear and well-considered policy stances from the party. At the same time, Dow urged party members to conduct their campaigns responsibly and maintain unity despite the ongoing contest for leadership positions. She cautioned against divisive tactics, stressing that the party’s strength lies in its cohesion.
“I plead with members to campaign openly and cleanly,” she said. “We will still need each other after the July congress, and unity must remain our priority.”
Dow’s team include Dumelang Saleshando as the president, Chairperson Sennye Obuseng, Secretary-General Emmanuel Maite, Deputy Secretary-General Naledi Maotonong, Treasurer Obakeng Moumakwa, and Publicity Secretary Greg Kelebonye.
The Monitor has learnt that Lucas will also unveil and launch his team this week.
His team includes Chairperson Daisy Bathusi, current Secretary-General Goretetse Kekgonegile, who wants to retain his seat, Deputy Secretary-General Tebogo Molefe, Treasurer Ethel Gaampone, and Publicity Secretary Olebile Machete.