BPF turmoil threatens Serowe leadership
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday June 15, 2026 06:00
Over the past two weeks, several councillors at the Serowe District Council (SDC) have been repeatedly locked into caucuses amid attempts by some members to unseat the current council chairperson, Atamelang Thaga.
These developments highlight tensions within the party that, according to insiders, have begun to seep into local governance structures, raising questions about party unity and leadership cohesion ahead of the 2029 general elections. Currently, councillors for Palapye District Council (PDC) are on suspension after trying to topple Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) chairperson Kabo Ketshogile. The BPF and UDC have an unofficial relationship. BPF has had internal fights since its formation to date.
The SDC is overwhelmingly dominated by the BPF, which controls 90% of council seats, leaving only two seats for the UDC and two for the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). This dominance should, in theory, have allowed the BPF to operate with cohesion and efficiency. Yet, despite its numerical strength, internal disputes appear to have intensified, with some councillors openly challenging the authority of the current chairperson. Party insiders suggest that the struggles within the central leadership have now permeated the council level, turning what should have been routine administrative processes into arenas of political contestation.
Observers note that these internal disagreements could have serious implications for local governance. As councillors focus on internal power struggles, the delivery of public services to Serowe residents may suffer. “When party politics interferes with council operations, ordinary citizens are the ones who feel the impact,” said one political analyst who requested anonymity.
“The BPF risks undermining its credibility not just within the party but also among the electorate if these conflicts continue unchecked.” Despite these reports, BPF spokesperson Modiri Lucas described the ongoing tensions in more positive terms. He characterised the current period as a “political ecdysis”, a process of renewal, transformation, and growth. “While such transitions may, at times, present challenges, they also provide valuable opportunities for introspection, reorganisation, and strengthening the party's structures and leadership,” Lucas explained. He further said that the BPF’s house is in order and that all members entrusted with positions of responsibility are expected to account for their actions and demonstrate diligence in executing their duties.Lucas also stressed that BPF members, including those serving at the council level, expect leadership that is responsible, accountable, and reliable.
“Our members want leaders who can effectively contribute to the growth and development of the party, positioning it competitively for the 2029 general elections,” he said. He reiterated that party members strongly believe in BPF’s potential to win state power, adding that this ambition requires all leaders, regardless of rank, to contribute constructively to the party’s objectives.
Lucas argued that councillors should not allow internal disagreements to impede their duties to the public. “It is imperative that we uphold high standards of service delivery while simultaneously strengthening our party internally,” he noted. Political analysts have observed that while internal disagreements are common in political parties, the BPF’s situation is particularly delicate because it is a relatively new party that has seen rapid growth. However, since its establishment in 2019, the BPF has quickly positioned itself as a serious contender in the country’s political landscape, largely due to the popularity of its leadership and dissatisfaction with traditional parties.
Rapid growth can also magnify internal tensions as new members and leaders compete for influence, authority, and recognition. The recent events at SDC are emblematic of these growing pains. On the other hand, some analysts warn that if left unresolved, these internal conflicts could spill over into national politics, potentially undermining the BPF’s prospects in the upcoming elections. Nevertheless, Lucas remained optimistic about the party’s trajectory. He expressed confidence that the current period of evolution would ultimately strengthen the BPF, positioning it as a formidable political force capable of winning state power in 2029. “Through unity, discipline, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals, this aspiration remains well within reach,” he stated. Lucas also emphasised the role of leadership accountability.
He noted that party members expect their leaders to perform effectively not only in party activities but also in public service. This dual responsibility, he argued, is essential to maintain public trust and enhance the party’s credibility. “Our leaders must balance internal political dynamics with the imperative of serving citizens effectively. Only then can we ensure that the BPF fulfills its promise to the people of Botswana,” he said. Lucas, however, maintained that these challenges are temporary and integral to the party’s growth. He urged members to embrace this period of transformation as an opportunity to strengthen internal structures, enhance leadership accountability, and reaffirm the party’s commitment to serving the people.
“The future of the BPF is bright,” Lucas affirmed. “Together, through constructive engagement, unity, and unwavering dedication to our principles, we can build a stronger party capable of delivering meaningful change for all Batswana.”