As the contest intensifies for the soul of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), the lobby list is beginning to take shape.
With the date for the election of the party's central committee set for May 10 in Maun, the next month promises to have major surprises as the race for the former ruling party heats up.
Notably this morning, presidential hopeful Dorcas Makgato withdrew from candidacy for the top position to fancy her chances at the party chairship. Makgato had made her intentions known following former president Mokgweetsi Masisi's announcement that BDP members could start canvassing for votes in the Central Committee. She was competing against former vice president Slumber Tsogwane, Mpho Balopi, and Ame Makoba, amongst others.
"After extensive consultations and deep reflection, I recognise that our party's ultimate strength lies in unity and strategic collaboration. In light of this, I am officially withdrawing my candidacy for the presidency of BDP and will instead be seeking the position of party chairperson," she said through a statement.
The former high commissioner of Botswana elaborated that the decision shouldn't be perceived as a sign of cowardice or her getting cold feet as it is a well-pondered decision.
"This isn't a withdrawal; it is a strategic realignment and this decision is based on our collective belief that in this role (chairperson), I will be best positioned to unify the party, bridge divides, and lay the groundwork for a more cohesive, visionary, and forward-thinking BDP," Makgato said.
She highlighted that leadership isn't only about occupying the highest seat as she can have a huge impact as a chairperson despite withdrawing from the race.
"Our party's future is bigger than any individual ambition. It is about building a movement that works for all. The journey to transformation isn't a solitary one and as leaders we must be able to embrace approaches that serve the greater good," she said.
Notably this morning, presidential hopeful Dorcas Makgato withdrew from candidacy for the top position to fancy her chances at the party chairship. Makgato had made her intentions known following former president Mokgweetsi Masisi's announcement that BDP members could start canvassing for votes in the Central Committee. She was competing against former vice president Slumber Tsogwane, Mpho Balopi, and Ame Makoba, amongst others.
"After extensive consultations and deep reflection, I recognise that our party's ultimate strength lies in unity and strategic collaboration. In light of this, I am officially withdrawing my candidacy for the presidency of BDP and will instead be seeking the position of party chairperson," she said through a statement.
The former high commissioner of Botswana elaborated that the decision shouldn't be perceived as a sign of cowardice or her getting cold feet as it is a well-pondered decision.
"This isn't a withdrawal; it is a strategic realignment and this decision is based on our collective belief that in this role (chairperson), I will be best positioned to unify the party, bridge divides, and lay the groundwork for a more cohesive, visionary, and forward-thinking BDP," Makgato said.
She highlighted that leadership isn't only about occupying the highest seat as she can have a huge impact as a chairperson despite withdrawing from the race.
"Our party's future is bigger than any individual ambition. It is about building a movement that works for all. The journey to transformation isn't a solitary one and as leaders we must be able to embrace approaches that serve the greater good," she said.
