There are fears that if the BDP leadership fails to mend fences amongst its members in the area, the ruling party may very well find itself bidding farewell to the constituency. Tension arose after the CC declared that a re-run in the constituency could not be held, citing time constraints from the electoral board. Consequently, they wielded their political authority to nominate Finance Minister Peggy Serame as the party’s candidate thereby ousting Health Minister Dikoloti from the race. The decision disregarded Dikoloti’s convincing victory at the party primaries held in July. Although Serame had garnered impressive support in the initial primary elections (despite her loss), the CC's decision has only deepened divisions within the party ranks. To make matters worse, President Mokgweetsi Masisi suspended Dikoloti for 60 days after the latter took the party to court for removing him from the Goodhope-Mmathethe constituency candidacy.
While the opposition parties may not be as formidable as the BDP, a split vote reminiscent of the 2014 General Election could very well tip the scales in their favour. During a recent Mmegi team visit to the area, it became evident that many residents felt disillusioned and expressed doubts about voting for the ruling party. Their sentiments echoed a growing frustration with what they perceived as the party’s disregard for their voices. "The BDP is at odds with the residents. We want to send a strong message to the party leadership: They cannot dictate our representatives," emphasised a concerned resident, Kelebaone Rapelang, during an interview on Sunday at Pitsane village.
"While the party should guide us, it must not stifle the democratic process to benefit a select few. Our power as voters is crucial. If we allow this to happen, our leaders will continue to perpetuate this misguided presidency,” she added. Rapelang clarified that their grievances lie not with Serame but with the party leadership's approach. Echoing her concerns, elderly resident Rapelang Gaofenngwe stated: "The BDP now holds the reins; its fate in this area hinges on reconciliation between Serame and Dikoloti. Furthermore, they owe us an apology and a discussion regarding this issue. Residents are upset, and only the party can soothe its members. Ignoring Dikoloti's influence is a grave mistake." Gaofenngwe further highlighted that Dikoloti’s family has long been a part of the BDP, and their votes are critical if the party genuinely seeks to maintain its foothold in the constituency. A resident of Ramatlabama, Gosego Nkarabang, voiced a grim outlook for the BDP, stating that the party’s divisions could significantly diminish its chances of success in the upcoming elections. "Honestly, I don’t believe residents will cast their votes for the BDP in this area. People are hurt and feel the party is making decisions on their behalf. Reconciliation efforts seem unlikely, even if they are attempted," Nkarabang said. He pointed out that before the recent decision was made, campaign teams for the two candidates were already at odds, with some members even resorting to defaming others within the lower party structures. "Do you really think those members, whose reputations have been tarnished in various newspapers, will forgive the party? A lot has transpired here that has led us to this situation," he asked rhetorically.
He further criticised the BDP for failing to communicate with its members regarding these issues, suggesting that this disregard indicates a lack of concern for the area. "The party needs to realise that some of its actions could backfire during election time," he warned, highlighting the precarious position the BDP finds itself in as it approaches the polls. In response to the growing dissent, BDP spokesperson Kagelelo Kentse emphasised that party members should understand that the congress empowered the CC to select candidates. "We are committed to addressing any concerns amongst our members where necessary," he said. Kentse urged party members to unite and consistently support the party’s mission, highlighting the responsibility of the branch committee, as outlined in the party constitution, to facilitate reconciliation between Dikoloti and Serame. Furthermore, he encouraged lower party structures to seek guidance from the CC whenever issues arise, reinforcing the need for collaboration and open communication within the party. Last week, the BDP spokesperson issued a press release stating that the party remains committed to upholding the highest standards of democracy, transparency, and unity.
He also conceded that he was aware that recent discussions regarding the outcomes of the CC meeting within the Goodhope-Mmathethe constituency have surfaced, and they emphasised that their processes are guided by fairness and integrity. Kentse said Dikoloti continues to be their respected member, known for his commitment to BDP’s principles and that they trust his dedication to the constitution and values of the party. He encouraged all members to remain united and uphold the values of "botho, setho, discipline, and respect" that guided them for decades. “Our strength lies in our ability to resolve differences and misunderstanding with dignity and respect,” the release had further appealed.
