Although the BNF and ANC have maintained a long standing relationship, it was never officially established. Over time, disagreements arose within the parties, as some members of both groups favoured the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) over the BNF, particularly when the latter was still in opposition. For several years, the BDP and ANC grew closer, further complicating the dynamics of political alliances in the region. This time around, the ANC deputy secretary-general, Nomvula Mokonyane, addressed the BNF leadership during the BNF's gala dinner on Saturday, stressing that it is now time to formalise their relationship. "It is time for you to send a delegation with a Memorandum of Agreement outlining our relationship," she said. Furthermore, she suggested that they could collaborate on political education programmes, noting, "We have a school for political education." By doing so, she explained, it would help eliminate any confusion that has previously surrounded their relationship. To further stress the point, Mokonyane said the ANC looks forward to rebuilding the historical relationship with the BNF and repairing the confusion that has prevailed as a result of government-to-government relations got privileged over party-to-party relations with those parties with whom they come a long way.
She said the ANC and BNF come a long way. Moreover, he said there are historical allies that they share deep ideological affinity. “We shared trenches. We know that you have been trying to revive bilateral ties, including your express interest in running a joint political education and training programme. We are committed to reviving the party to-party relations between our sister parties. We will very glad to receive a high-powered delegation of the BNF at our Headquarters in Johannesburg to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation,” she revealed. In addition, the ANC deputy secretary-general said they must mobilise all governments, business people and civil society voices to influence the outcomes of the summit. She said they want to see a lot of Batswana entrepreneurs in Johannesburg in November. On other areas, she said they must work together to assert their position on the global stage, advocating for our interests and ensuring that Africa’s narrative is shaped by Africans. She revealed that South Africa will be hosting the G20 Summit this year. “Like our 2010 World Cup, The BRICS Summit, which was preceded by BRIC Plus Political Parties Dialogue in which you participated, we are hosting this on behalf of our campaign as you govern. Don’t be complacent,” she said.
