BNF unity to be tested in Francistown

Although party officials publicly project confidence and peace, lingering divisions from last year’s elective congress continue to cast a shadow over the weekend gathering. Consequently, many observers are questioning whether the party will emerge stronger and more united or further divided by unresolved tensions.

The cracks within the party can be traced back to the fiercely contested elective congress held last year. At the time, rival teams led by different ministers competed for influential party positions, creating deep factional lines. While leadership contests are a natural feature of democratic politics, the aftermath appears to have left wounds that are yet to heal. To date, members aligned with opposing camps are reportedly struggling to fully embrace one another, thereby sustaining an atmosphere of mistrust and suspicion. Notably, party vice president Moeti Mohwasa previously acknowledged the importance of unity and forgiveness within the organisation.