Addressing the Botswana National Front (BNF) Women's League Gala Dinner held on Saturday at Cresta Lodge, she urged the attendees to fully understand the weight of this transition and their responsibilities. Mokonyane stressed that whilst criticising the government is easier from the outside, once in power, the responsibility becomes significantly heavier, especially in a society facing serious socio-economic challenges. At the Botswana National Front (BNF) Women's League Gala Dinner held Saturday at Cresta Lodge, Nomvula Mokonyane, the African National Congress (ANC) first deputy secretary-general spoke candidly about the complexities of moving from opposition to governance. “As you embark on this new journey from opposition to governance, I want to share some insights drawn from our own experiences in the ANC. “Running a successful election campaign and winning elections is also very different from governing successfully,” she said. Mokonyane who was a keynote speaker at the gala dinner said it was important for the BNF members to understand the weight of responsibility they are into. She warned that now they are the architects of solutions, and the expectations of the people will be high. Therefore, Mokonyane said it was essential to manage those expectations whilst remaining grounded in reality.
She, however, said it is also important that they understand the advantages that a governing party or alliance derives from incumbency as well as the risks that come with power (what we in the ANC call “sins of incumbency”). Another challenge she said they would face is balancing needs and resources. “The needs of the people are vast, yet the resources at your disposal may be limited. Striking a balance between immediate relief for those in desperate situations and long-term sustainable development is crucial. Transparency and communication with the public will be vital in maintaining trust and support,” Mokonyane continued. Moreover, she said governance is about fostering a culture of inclusivity and participation. In addition, Mokonyane urged the BNF to create avenues for citizens to engage in the political process and contribute to the decisions that affect their lives. The more inclusive your governance approach, the more resilient your government will be in facing challenges, she revealed.
