Some members are dissatisfied with a recent push by certain leaders to hold an elective conference instead of the usual congress. These members argue that such a move contradicts the party’s constitution and is therefore, unconstitutional. They believe holding an elective conference may be part of a larger scheme within the leadership to either challenge or exclude certain individuals from contesting for party positions. The debate has caused a significant rift, with several members feeling that some leaders are attempting to undermine the party’s leadership to gain favour with certain allies. According to a source, “this issue has sharply divided both the Executive and Central Committee. It is astonishing that some leaders are secretly promoting this agenda despite both committees having already rejected it. This undermines the necessity of both committees if decisions are being made outside of these recognised bodies.” The source expressed concern that if this behaviour continues, it could lead to loss of members, who may defect to other parties.
However, the source said members believe that condoning actions that go against the party's constitution could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging members to act in their own interests rather than adhering to the party’s core principles. Additionally, a troubling trend has emerged within the party, the source revealed. The source added: “Some leadership members have begun to argue that the party needs the direction of ‘the party owners.’” The source emphasised further: “We have always believed that the party belongs to all members, not to individuals or families.” This sentiment has fuelled further dissatisfaction within the ranks. Additionally, some members have expressed their concern about the party's current performance, which stands at 25%, far below the 50% target they had set for themselves. They believe that addressing these internal issues should take priority over personal ambitions and the need for a change in leadership. In an interview recently with the BCP secretary-general (SG), Goretetse Kekgonegile, he said: There is discussion within the party such as holding early elections though the constitutional term is five years and points to 2026 elections. If that happens, indeed there will be change of guard in some portfolios.” Kekgonegile recently addressed the issue in a detailed statement.
He explained that the matter has been discussed at a high level within the party, where it was concluded that legal opinion should be sought to guide its resolution. He stated: "It’s true that the issue was discussed at upper levels with the conclusion that a legal opinion be sought to guide the finalisation of the issue." He went on to emphasise the BCP's constitution, which stipulates a five-year term for the executive, with elections scheduled to take place after the national elections. "The BCP constitution talks to a five-year term with executive elections to take place after national elections," Kekgonegile stated. In an interview on Wednesday, the party SG pointed out the timeline of the party’s leadership, reminding the members that the most recent BCP executive elections were held in 2021. Therefore, he explained, "hence, five years goes up to 2026, which is still after national elections and will give the incoming committee enough time to prepare the party for the 2029 elections." Kekgonegile also expressed disappointment over the circulating lobby lists, clarifying that it was premature to consider elections at this time. "It’s unfortunate that lobby lists are flying around when it’s clear the party is not due for elections," he said. In addition, he said the party should focus more on pressing issues such as the constitutional review and the election of auxiliary bodies.
He, however, claimed that the intentions behind the current push for internal changes seemed not to benefit the party, but rather to alter its leadership for personal gain. "It is unfortunate that it seems the intention is not to benefit the party but to push some people out of the executive and have same-minded people within leadership," Kekgonegile pointed out. He also warned that such actions could have detrimental effects on the party, undermining its diversity, which is essential to its strength. The SG also pointed out that the action will be detrimental to the party given the diversity that exists and must be protected as it is a reflection of society. Meanwhile, the BCP constitution article 11.1 says, “there shall be an elective conference, which shall be the highest decision making body of the party where inter alia, members of the central committee shall be elected the next calendar year following the National General Election to hold office for five years from the date of election.”
