One can safely say that for the first in Botswana’s political history, it is not obvious which amongst the contesting political parties is going to win the elections, come October. In the previous elections, voters were always certain of the outcome. Batswana always knew that Botswana Democratic Party would clinch the crown. But now the atmosphere has changed. Oppositions parties are beginning to sense real possibilities of ruling the country in what could be a first since the country gained independence.
The changed political atmosphere has consequently put many politicians and party activists in a tight corner. Petty politics and insults seem to be the order of the day across the political divide. Of course, some leaders still choose to address pertinent issues in what could be a rarity, while others have resorted to using foul language and insult each other during their political rallies or in campaigns related events. On the other realm, Batswana are now more active in political debates, and want to interrogate promises made by politicians and whether such are in touch with reality.
