He said it is a known fact that the BDP has over the years maintained its culture of successfully solving even the hardest of issues in-house as well as containing its membership despite all odds. Speaking at a veterans' tea engagement in Maun, themed 'Morero le Bagolo go Boela Marakanelong a Ditsela (Consultation with Party Elders: Going Back to the Crossroads)', Kwelagobe stated that the party is fortunate as it is blessed with diehard veterans and supporters, most of whom have been there since its inception, the same people who have witnessed the party weather all storms but still ensured it comes out victorious as they have mastered the art of amicable conflict resolution. These, he said, are members who should not be taken for granted as they have stayed this long and remained steadfast even through the party’s past trials and tribulations. He said their dedication and commitment speak volumes and cannot be overlooked, as they are the very people who are always willing and better placed to listen and where possible advise the leadership whenever the need arises.
He called on members to look past their differences, whilst also taking into consideration that they have a duty to fight a common enemy – the opposition. Kwelagobe noted that not long ago the party was faced with multiple challenges some of which should have been avoided. “I must admit that I am aware of a couple of errors which led to unease within our party as a result of matters which many feel were not appropriately handled by our leadership. It is true that there had been pressing issues where some people were seriously affected. This happens and is experienced everywhere. However, going forward let us unite even more and all agree that in the future we will not see a repetition of what was encountered by some of us,” he said. Furthermore, he urged democrats to make it a habit of always defending and referring to the party constitution as a guiding tool so that the decisions that they take at all party structures fall in line with what is stipulated in the constitution. He highlighted the need to preserve forgiveness and reconciliation in the face of political adversities as well as to try and avoid internal strife at all costs for the purpose of staying united. “Let us come together more than we ever did bearing in mind that we aim to win the upcoming elections. Remember, our party has quite a large following, but if we waste time influencing or fuelling unnecessary fights internally, we would have given the opposition ammunition to oust us,” he advised.
He added: "Nevertheless, on the other hand, we need to be alive to the fact that we cannot all win elections or be in leadership positions – that has always been the nature of politics. Therefore, this is the time to hold hands and ensure that those who are contesting are given all the necessary support for them to excel." In addition, Kwelagobe said he personally still wishes for the BDP to remain in power through dominance at councils and Parliament. All that is needed, he said, is for democrats to do the needful and work towards a major comeback. He said unlike in neighbouring South Africa where the African National Congress (ANC), the Democratic Alliance (DA) and others settled for a government of national unity, the BDP is not in a position to do the same. As a party, Kwelagobe does not see it happening locally emphasising that no one is ready for such a development. He reminded democrats to emulate party founder, Sir Seretse Khama, as he believed in party unity and was very much against tribalism as it had the potential to cause divisions amongst people. He applauded the founding father, Khama, for having instilled in them, wisdom and togetherness, something that he urged members to ensure it is passed on to future generations. Also speaking at the event was former North West District Council chair, John Benn, who equally shared Kwelagobe’s views of reconciliation and forgiveness.
He emphasised the need for group effort in making amends and guarding against all those who might try to distract or cause divisions amongst party members. The engagement also served as a reminder of the guiding principles, which the party has been accustomed to since way back.
