Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has doubled the fees candidates pay to participate in primary elections commonly known as Bulela Ditswe.
Now, council candidates are expected to pay P5,000 from P2,500 whilst a parliamentary candidate is expected to fork out P10,000 from P5,000 to be eligible.
This move will definitely boost the party's election campaign funds, but it could also make it harder for candidates, especially those with challenges of financial resources, to participate in the elections. The decision was taken by BDP central committee which met yesterday.
" It is true the CC decided to increase the fees. Our fees have not been increased for more than 10 years. All materials needed to help in the running of primary elections are very expensive, hence an increase, " BDP secretary-general Kavis Kario said in an interview this morning.
He said one cannot contest primaries if he or she has not paid the required amount as the receipt of payment is needed by the branch committees.
Mmegi has learnt that the party also want to see if those who have expressed interest are committed to contesting. Currently, reports show that the BDP has received overwhelming numbers of members who want to contest in the primary elections. Some members believe that through the raising of fees, the BDP is trying to cut down the numbers.
