The Botswana National Front (BNF) secretary-general, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, has said the party recognises and respects the remarkable role of the Women’s League in the party.
Speaking at a gala dinner organised by the Women’s League on Saturday at Cresta Hotel in Gaborone, he emphasised that they are the backbone and strength of the organisation, setting the pace for others to follow. Reflecting on the poignant message in a song, Motshegwa urged Africans to adopt Pan-Africanism as a driving force, asserting that Africa must find its own solutions to its unique challenges. “We must devise African solutions to African problems. Again, we must push for unity, economic independence, and self-sufficiency of Africa,” he said. On the issue of their relationship with the African National Congress (ANC), Motshegwa said they share a historical and ideological bond. He added that both parties advocate for liberty, civil rights and the economic empowerment of their people.
Moreover, the secretary-general noted the central focus of their policies is to address socio-economic disparities in communities, fostering equality and social justice. Acknowledging the ANC's significant role in national liberation, Motshegwa reaffirmed the BNF’s commitment to the National Democratic Revolution building a society where people are intellectually, politically, economically, and socially empowered. He also recalled Dr Kenneth Koma’s insight that "it takes a long time to train revolutionaries, not less than two years". Motshegwa urged for continuous political education to shape the character and ideology of BNF cadres, especially during a time when opportunists may seek to join the party due to its new position within the government. The secretary-general called for a steadfast commitment to the vision articulated in the BNF's political writings, such as the second phase of the African Revolution pamphlet, the Social Democratic Programme (SDP), and other foundational documents. Motshegwa urged the party to preserve, defend, grow, and nurture the BNF’s ideals. He then emphasised the core values and strategic direction of the BNF, which are centred around socio-economic transformation, justice, inclusivity, and equality. “These principles are outlined in the BNF's vision, mission, and values, as well as the Social Democratic Programme (1994), Strategic Plan (2023), and BNF Policy Document (2024),” he continued.
Turning to the need for vigilance, Motshegwa reminded attendees of the ongoing struggle for economic emancipation. He referenced Amílcar Cabral’s words, stressing the importance of defining the enemy—capitalism and the necessity to fight against its exploitation, manipulation, and abuse of workers and the poor. He echoed Mao Tse-Tung’s insight on the importance of recognising who the enemies and allies are in the revolution. He, however, urged BNF members to maintain organisational stability, cohesion, and unity, ensuring a functional government that delivers on its promises. Motshegwa reiterated the BNF's commitment to contributing to peace and unity within the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) and government, assuring the people that the government would fulfil its electoral promises.