This loss marks a significant shift in Botswana's political landscape, and the BDP members are now looking to the upcoming congress as a critical moment to reassess the party's vision, elect new leaders, and set a new course for recovery. Former president Mokgweetsi Masisi, who led the party during his time in office, recently made headlines by announcing that he would not be seeking a second term in party leadership.
At a press conference held shortly after the election results were announced, Masisi decisively stated: “I am not seeking a second term,” signaling his intent to step back from the party's top leadership position. The announcement has further stirred internal discussions about succession and the future of the BDP’s leadership. During an interview with the BDP secretary-general. Kavis Kario on Tuesday, Masisi reinforced his stance, clarifying, “It is true that I will not be contesting for the Central Committee position.”His firm statement effectively rules out any possibility of his return to a key leadership role within the BDP, setting the stage for new contenders to emerge. Masisi’s decision comes at a time when the party faces substantial challenges in regaining its footing and restoring its appeal to the electorate after the disappointing election outcome. The BDP's constitution offers guidance on what happens in the event of a leadership vacancy while the party is not in power. According to Article 29.3.5 of the BDP constitution, if there is a vacancy in the office of the president of the party while it is not in power, "the chairperson of the party shall act as president of the party until the next Congress." This provision will play a crucial role as the BDP navigates its current period of transition, with the chairperson expected to assume an interim leadership role as the party regroups. As BDP prepares for its congress, members are intensely aware of the high stakes involved. Traditionally, the congress serves as a platform for party members to engage in constructive dialogue, evaluate the party's policies, and elect new members to the Central Committee, the BDP's decision-making body.
