UDC’s Mmadinare double blow
Ryder Gabathuse - Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday October 26, 2026 06:00
Whilst all roads lead to the former copper/nickel mining town of Selebi-Phikwe, where the BNF will hold its important policy forum, the whole saga throws the party into a difficult position. The UDC’s double blow comes amidst growing internal wrangles, unresolved factional tensions and mounting complaints from party members over leadership accountability and the implementation of resolutions adopted at the BNF’s last Palapye elective congress.
A letter allegedly originating from the UDC office and dated October 20, 2026 has sent the message: “Residents of Mmadinare East ward and Mmadinare constituency in general are informed of the resignation of Goitsemang as UDC member and councillor, which we have accepted and wish him well in his journey. We respect his decision.”
Goitsemang is amongst UDC councillors who were welcomed into the coalition after defecting from the Botswana Congress Party (BCP). Following their defection, they were given green light to serve under the UDC without being subjected to rigorous primary election processes.
However, Goitsemang’s disengagements from the UDC activities adds to the challenges confronting the BNF as it prepares for its policy forum, with questions emerging about the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to manage disagreements amongst members.
The latest tension has also been exposed by the Sefhophe ward by-election, which triggered a dispute between the BNF and some UDC direct members over which party should contest the seat.
The disagreement arose after some UDC direct members argued that the ward belonged to them since the late councillor, Christopher Motsholapheko, had previously been a direct member of the coalition.
Speaking to Mmegi this week, Goitsemang distanced himself from reports that he had actually resigned from the UDC to join the BCP.
“I haven’t resigned yet. The situation is such that I and the area MP, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa and other people within the constituency no longer have a relationship and are simply not in talking terms. Out of frustration, I have stated that come 2029 polls, I will not be with the UDC,” Goitsemang clarified to Mmegi. He also stressed that currently he is not in talking terms with Motshegwa and other party diehards, leaving him literally on his own. He however, promised to serve the people who mandated him to go to the council. He emphasised that the relationship with Motshegwa and some party operatives has apparently broken down irretrievably.
“Look, attempts have been made to reconcile us but, it doesn’t seem that will come easily any time soon.”
Meanwhile the BNF refused to relinquish the Sefhophe ward, sparking discontent amongst some direct members who vowed not to vote for the UDC candidate.
The dispute escalated to the point where BNF secretary-general, Dr Stephen Modise suspended campaign activities in the area and announced that the party had not yet fielded a candidate. The suspension lasted for two weeks, despite the by-election drawing closer.
Although the BNF central committee eventually intervened to resolve the dispute, some direct members remained dissatisfied, believing their concerns had been sidelined and that they had not been given a fair hearing. The controversy has since fuelled broader concerns about divisions within the BNF, with some members arguing that the party is undermining itself through persistent internal conflicts.
Some section of the party alleged that there were other members who were fuelling divisions in Sefhophe by supporting direct members and funding them. According to party insiders, the divisions have deepened since the Palapye elective congress, which reportedly widened the rift between rival factions.
“Both Team Stability and Team Temple still exist even now despite the party constitution dictating that teams must disband after the party leadership is announced to have won,” an inside source told Mmegi this week.
During a recent press conference, BNF vice-president, Moeti Mohwasa acknowledged that the party was facing difficulties.
Mohwasa admitted that some members continued to attack the organisation while remaining active in WhatsApp groups associated with their former campaign teams.
Meanwhile, messages circulating in several party WhatsApp groups, which Mmegi has seen, show that some members are increasingly frustrated with what they perceive as the leadership’s failure to address divisions and provide clear direction.
Some members have also accused ministers of encouraging factionalism by remaining active in the WhatsApp groups associated with their former campaign teams. They further allege that certain ministers favour members who supported them during the leadership contest.
One member argued that internal debate had historically been central to the party’s identity and should not be viewed as a threat to its leadership.
“Our party has lost its culture. When we go to forums or conferences, our constitution allows us to have temporary platforms which encourage inner-party debate. It is also part of democracy. Again, it is important to criticise our leaders internally so that things are done well. This is what makes BNF different from any other party. Maybe an extraordinary congress may help to solve all existing party problems,” the member said in a message shared in the group.
Some members have further accused the BNF central committee of failing to communicate progress on implementing resolutions adopted at the Palapye elective congress.
One member questioned the apparent delay in communicating the resolutions, arguing that the central committee should be held accountable for ensuring that decisions taken at the congress are implemented.
“We are still waiting for party resolutions even now. The CC must be held accountable as we cannot allow a situation where it goes against congress resolutions,” the member added.
For the BNF, the policy forum presents an opportunity to address the concerns and reassure members that the party remains committed to its principles and internal democratic processes.