Addressing the gathering, party chairperson,Slumber Tsogwane passionately underscored that collaboration is essential for their success. The BDP candidate for Lentsweletau-Lephephe Constituency, Legojane Kebaitse was launched on Sunday by Vice President, Tsogwane. Previously, tensions arose as some members sought the suspension of certain candidates, but their recommendations to the Central Committee (CC) were ultimately dismissed. Despite the CC’s decision, which followed the disappointing outcome of the primary elections, some members remained inactive. However, figures like former Member of Parliament Wilhemina Makwinja have continued to rally behind the current candidate. "It is imperative for members to set aside their differences and focus on the party's goals," stated a source within the party. Those who did not succeed in the primary elections were reminded of their obligation to support the victors as per the party constitution. Furthermore, members were cautioned that ongoing divisions would not be tolerated, and both regional and branch committees were urged to ensure a robust campaign to secure the constituency.
Additionally, it was revealed that the candidate's initial struggle to gain acceptance stemmed from his relative newness in election contests, despite his dedication to the party due to work commitments. Nonetheless, Mmegi has learnt that all parties involved are now committed to working together harmoniously. The regional committee has emphasised the importance of collaboration in the area. Constituency chairperson, Chomie Letlole, stated in an interview: "Indeed, we met with the party chairperson, who was briefed on the party's situation in the area, particularly following the primary elections." "There is currently peace in our region, as all candidates who contested the party’s parliamentary elections, along with those running for council seats, are actively campaigning in various areas. "We are collaborating with them, and some have contributed their resources. Our branch and the regional committee have ensured that we work together, fostering a peaceful environment," Letlole explained. Furthermore, he expressed confidence that they would retain the area as the chairperson had requested, and they made a commitment to him in this regard. He also mentioned that all organisational structures in their area remain intact and active. When asked about members who left the party after the primary elections, Letlole acknowledged that two candidates who participated in the primaries are now running as independents. He noted that they are diligently working in those wards to secure victories for the BDP candidates. Additionally, he specified that the two wards in question are Medie-Kweneng and Sojwe. He clarified that those members who left had not succeeded in the primaries and departed with some other members.
Meanwhile, Mmegi has learnt that voters in the Medie-Kweneng ward typically support candidates from their locality, often voting en masse for one individual, particularly in Medie. According to a source, this tendency stems from Medie being one of the less developed settlements. Notably, the results from the primary elections indicated that voters from that area predominantly supported Makwinja. Although the constituency is traditionally a BDP stronghold, the party is somewhat lagging in its campaign efforts due to its large size, as it is one of the biggest constituencies. Additionally, delays caused by petitions following the primary elections have further hindered their progress, while opposition parties have been actively campaigning.
Moreover, the constituency faces numerous challenges, such as inadequate healthcare access, requiring residents to travel nearly 200km from Lephephe to Molepolole for better medical services. Other issues include poor internal roads and a high unemployment rate. Consequently, various parties are leveraging these challenges to appeal for votes.
