Mogae’s bold party reforms
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Friday May 15, 2026 10:22
The initiative brought both positive and negative outcomes. It empowered grassroots members to have a voice, but it also amplified divisions within the party, creating tensions that previously simmered under the surface.
Mogae’s decision to liberalise party primary elections was bold, particularly because many party members and even his own Central Committee were initially uneasy with the idea.
At the time, the BDP was characterised by strong factions, and any significant change to the party’s internal processes risked deepening existing rifts.
Nevertheless, Mogae believed in democratic engagement and was convinced that opening up the selection process would strengthen the party in the long term, even if it caused short-term friction.
During his tenure, Mogae consistently championed open debate and inclusivity. He deliberately ensured that different members from all factions of the party were represented in government positions and the cabinet.
For him, factional affiliations did not determine the worth or capacity of a leader. Instead, he held the view that a team composed of diverse voices could function effectively if each member was competent.
This philosophy is perhaps best summarised in his often-quoted Setswana expression: “Nna ga ke rapele ditlhopho”, meaning he did not pander to personal biases or favouritism when making decisions.
Mogae was also known for his willingness to challenge colleagues when he believed in a particular course of action. One memorable incident involved his vision for leadership succession within the BDP.
He sought to position former president Ian Khama as vice president, necessitating the reassignment of then-Serowe North Member of Parliament Roy Blackbeard to a diplomatic role abroad.
This move was influenced by the late political consultant Professor Lawrence Schlemmer, who believed that Ian Khama was uniquely capable of neutralising the party’s deeply entrenched factions, which were then divided into the Barata-Phathi and A-team axis.
While this decision ultimately aimed to stabilise the party, it came at a personal cost for Mogae, as it led to the loss of close friends within the BDP, including prominent figures like Ponatshego Kedikilwe.
Reflecting on Mogae’s contributions, BDP executive secretary Ame Makoba emphasised the president’s longstanding commitment to public service and leadership.
“President Festus Mogae has, over the years, worked with different BDP leaders, including President Sir Ketumile Masire and several ministers,” Makoba noted.
“He did this first as a civil servant, serving in critical roles such as Permanent Secretary to the President and Governor of the Bank of Botswana, long before he became a politician,” Makoba said
Furthermore, he said Mogae’s political career formally began when he was specially elected to Parliament in 1989, representing Palapye constituency in 1994. By 1992, he had been appointed Vice President of Botswana, and in 1998, he ascended to the presidency.
“He was subsequently elected President in his own right in 1999 and again in 2004. Throughout his political journey, Mogae remained committed to democratic principles, both within the BDP and in national governance,” he revealed.
One of his most notable legacies, he said, was the formal introduction of the BDP primary elections. He, however, said this shift transformed the party’s candidate selection process. Previously, party representatives were chosen exclusively by branch committees, limiting broader participation. Under Mogae’s leadership, he said all party members could vote for candidates across different constituencies and wards, fostering a more inclusive and representative system.
He said the first such elections took place in 2004, marking a significant milestone in Botswana’s democratic development. Makoba said beyond procedural reforms, Mogae played a critical role in stabilising the BDP during a period of intense factionalism.
“At the time, the party’s internal divisions threatened to undermine its unity and public credibility. Mogae’s strategic decisions, including bringing Ian Khama into key positions, were aimed at bridging these divides,” he said.
“By incorporating leaders from different factions into the government, he sought to ensure that no single group dominated party politics, thereby promoting cohesion and long-term stability.”
He said Mogae’s approach to leadership was informed by a deep respect for competence, fairness, and democratic values. He noted that, unlike some political leaders, who rely on personal loyalty or factional alliances, Mogae believed that leadership effectiveness was rooted in ability, not affiliations.
His inclusive style often required difficult decisions, including challenging allies or reallocating political positions to maintain balance and fairness. Despite the challenges, Mogae’s reforms left an enduring impact on the BDP. By giving ordinary party members a voice in leadership selection, he strengthened internal democracy and accountability. While factional tensions persisted, his policies helped create a more transparent and participatory system, encouraging dialogue and engagement across all levels of the party.
Moreover, Mogae’s leadership extended beyond party politics. As president, he championed policies that promoted economic stability, social development, and regional cooperation. His tenure was characterised by a pragmatic approach to governance, balancing competing interests while maintaining a focus on long-term national objectives. Even as he navigated political complexities, Mogae consistently demonstrated integrity, impartiality, and a commitment to democratic principles.
In summation, Mogae’s legacy within the Botswana Democratic Party is defined by his courage to innovate, his dedication to democratic values, and his ability to unite diverse voices. The introduction of Bulela Ditswe not only transformed party politics but also reinforced the importance of inclusivity, fairness, and transparency in governance. While the reforms sparked debate and challenged existing norms, they ultimately contributed to the BDP’s resilience and adaptability in an evolving political landscape.
Mogae’s leadership serves as a reminder that true democracy requires both vision and courage. By prioritising competence over factional loyalty, he set an example for future leaders on how to navigate political divisions while fostering unity. His strategic decisions, often difficult and sometimes unpopular, were guided by a long-term vision of stability and inclusive governance. Today, the impact of his reforms continues to shape the Botswana Democratic Party, ensuring that the voices of ordinary members are heard and respected.
Through his actions, Mogae demonstrated that effective leadership is not about personal gain or factional dominance but about creating systems that empower others, promote fairness, and strengthen institutions. His enduring legacy is a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful, democratic leadership in both party and national contexts.