Following a series of internal rifts, the party splintered, giving rise to the Botswana Republican Party (BRP) last October. As the BPF prepares for the upcoming elections on October 30, divisions remain apparent, with some members, including key executive figures, contesting under the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) banner. The BPF has always been known to rely on the so-called ‘Khama Magic’ with the belief that Khama has his way of attracting people to himself and any causes he partakes in. Even the man who would ordinarily be the face of the party’s campaign, president Mephato Reatile admitted at a press conference recently that it would take just the presence of Khama at their party events and saying a few words that would ensure that though they came late to the campaign season, they would still perform greatly. Interestingly, despite the party not having been clear on its election plan, joining the UDC then leaving before elections, internal fighting leading to court cases, absence of party manifesto, the BPF has been the biggest beneficiary of primary elections casualties from other parties. The party until just before nominations were made was accepting disgruntled members from the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) and opposition parties with most of them going on to test in new territories almost in any region.
Also, it has never been about what the BPF as a party can offer or what is in their manifesto, but rather they hope to benefit from Khama’s popularity and assumed sympathy votes over his self-exile which he says he was forced on by government. At the heart of the BPF's campaign is the charisma and substantial following of its patron, former president Ian Khama. His return to Botswana following a period of self-imposed exile in South Africa and Eswatini has reinvigorated the party’s presence, especially in the Bagammangwato tribal territory, where his popularity remains high. Shortly after his return, Khama was welcomed like a hero in Serowe, where he announced his intent to return to the Kgotla as Kgosikgolo. His subsequent campaign appearances, including a recent manifesto launch, have centred on a clear message: a desire to see President Mokgweetsi Masisi ousted from power. Khama’s influence is undeniable; his return has galvanised support for the BPF, particularly in constituencies in the northern part of the country, mainly the Gammangwato territory. He has expressed confidence that the party can make significant gains in the upcoming elections, emphasising unity amongst opposition parties against the BDP.
