Mogae was also the BDP president. For many observers, the emotional speeches delivered during Mogae’s State funeral over the weekend painted a picture of a party still trapped in bitterness, regret and unresolved internal battles. While senior members praised President Duma Boko for according Mogae a dignified State funeral, some of their remarks appeared to indirectly attack the previous leadership of the BDP, especially over how former president Sir Ketumile Masire was honoured after his passing. From the tone of the speeches and comments during the funeral proceedings, it became increasingly clear that, although the BDP leadership has publicly called for healing and counselling, many members still carry emotional scars from the party’s turbulent final years in power.
One of the people who did not hide her feelings was outspoken BDP member Tebelelo Seretse. Known for speaking her mind without fear, Seretse openly thanked Boko for honouring Mogae in a manner she believed had not been done before. “We thank you, President Boko, for honouring Rra Nametso and giving him a State funeral. We nearly died without witnessing one,” said Seretse. She further revealed that Mogae once advised her not to hate members of the opposition because they could one day also lead the country.
