Some might say Balikani is a coward but this is missing the point. Only those without a proper understanding of what leadership entails can support that argument. A general whose judgment causes loss has to reconsider his role as a leader. Only a leadership steeped in unaccountability could fail to recognise the invalidity of its own existence after self-inflicted disaster. A good leader knows when to call it quits, because ultimately the movement is bigger than the narrow interests of the individual or even his or her inner group. A smart leader recognises these simple facts.
For a political party, the leader's primary responsibility is to increase its popularity and electoral standing. A political party should be active in the public arena. An opposition party should be seen to be on the ball on every issue relevant to Batswana. The BPP has not met these standards. Balikani has recognised this in general terms. His stepping down will assist the movement to find another member who might move it to the next level. It is only fair that when Balikani has done all he can to improve the BPP, he should leave so that others can have an opportunity to lead the party.
