Mmegi

Students revolt against UDC go’vt

Following the mounting pressure from the protest, the government adopted the proposed fares PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG
Following the mounting pressure from the protest, the government adopted the proposed fares PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 marked a revolutionary moment as university students in Botswana protested at the Office of the President, forcing the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government to reverse controversial commuter fare hikes.

Led by different student leaders of multiple affiliated political parties, including Neville Sechele, who was handcuffed and later released, the students demanded an end to April fare increases and the promised P2,500 living allowance.

Following the mounting pressure from the protest, the government adopted the proposed fares of December 2025 levels, and the allowance rose from P1,900 to P2,200.

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