Have a safe and successful congress

Mmegi Editor | Friday July 7, 2017 16:18

This is a congress that will obviously leave broken hearts, uncertain future for some, and an even spell the end of political careers for others.  The economy of Tonota village will definitely benefit from the congress that will bring multitudes from all over the country.

The party announced that they have invited the Independent Electoral Commission to make presentations on the electronic voting machines (EVM) and for members to experience these machines before forming a position on it at this congress. This is a welcome endeavour. However, this does not change the fact that majority of Batswana are suspicious of these machines and their potential to disrupt the peace and tranquillity that we have enjoyed since independence as a result of suspected cheating by some. We still hold the position that the use of EVMs in general elections should have a paper trail, which can be consulted in the event of suspected cheating. We all remember that during the 2014 general elections, some candidates could not believe their loss and the ballots had to be counted several times to verify the results. Imagine a situation where there is nothing to refer to when there is a dispute!

As for the contesting parties, we hope MaDomi will vote for a team that will take this country forward by coming up with programmes and initiatives that will give us sustainable jobs, and social security. We want a BDP that is tolerant of dissenting voices and the voices of the minority.

We urge the BDP supporters to bring in a leadership that will protect our national resources and that cares about equitable distribution of developments. What the membership should consider carefully is whether the team they are voting in is the one that will consult them, listen to them and the one that will make decisions that are in the best interest of the nation.

We are confident that the BDP will elect a team that cares about the country’s image abroad and its relationship and co-existence with its neighbours, and other countries far away from us.

The country needs a ruling party that cares about the important role that is played by organisations such as the United Nations, African Union, SADC, and others in enhancing good relations, good governance and respect for human rights amongst others.

Lastly, the BDP should elect a team that will promote accountability and transparency in the handling of national resources, and not those who think that it is their time to eat.

Good luck BDP.