Musicians cash in on political campaigns
Lekopanye Mooketsi | Wednesday October 29, 2014 16:37
The line-ups included both local and international artists. Politicians would then take advantage of the massive numbers to spread their election message. But this was not a new development because entertainment was also part of the package offered to voters during the 2009 general elections. In the old days, the only form of entertainment at rallies besides the politicians themselves, were the parties’ choirs.
During those days, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) used to have a powerful choir, which was conducted by the then specially elected MP, Gaotlhaetse Matlhabaphiri.
But these days, although the choirs are still in existence, politicians prefer music groups because they are more popular.
It was the former MP for Gaborone West South, Botsalo Ntuane who set the trend when he roped in popular South African group, Splash on the eve of the 2009 general elections.
The turnout at Ntuane’s rally, hosted at Gaborone West, was huge. Most of those who attended the rally were youth who were attracted by the music. The multitude of Splash fans could not miss an opportunity to watch their favourite group for free. Ntuane was voted into Parliament.
Last Thursday on the eve of this year’s general elections, Ntuane hired Splash to grace his rally at Gaborone West. Actually weeks ago, he had roped in another South African group, Trompies. The Thursday line-up included local groups like Mafitlhakgosi. The Old Naledi-based traditional dancing troupe, has been one of the beneficiaries of the electoral campaigns.
A week before, performing at Ntuane’s rally they performed at a BDP star rally in Old Naledi addressed by President Ian Khama.
However, this time not even Splash could save Ntuane as he lost the constituency that he held on for five years. Last weekend, BDP hosted a mega rally at Maharaj, which featured a number of local artists like Vee. Vee is one of the artists who are always billed for BDP events.
It is not only the BDP that has been hiring artists, but even the other political parties. The Botswana Congress Party (BCP) seemed to prefer Charma Gal as she has always been seen performing at their events. She performed at the party’s star rally, which was held at the GSS grounds. The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), on the other hand, engaged artists such as Afro pop singer, Ashley Gops.