The event marks the first step in what is likely to be a rigorous battle to the national crown. All top players in the country will be present save for the two defending champions in FIDE Master Phemelo Khetho (men) and Tshepiso Lopang (women). The top 23 players in the open section advance to the second round to be played in two weeks' time. In the women's section, the top nine finishers will join Lopang in the finals scheduled for March.
Botswana Chess Federation (BCF) secretary Kefilwe Miti said that they intended to make changes to the competition but they abandoned the plans because the idea was not popular. "Yes we did have ideas on revamping the championships but the furore surrounding the issue has been blown out of proportion even before BCF made any formal announcement regarding any changes. As such, there won't be any changes," Miti told Mmegi Sport. Players complained after BCF indicated in their 2008 schedule that only the top 20 will make it to the second phase together with three top seeds and Khetho. Critics said anyone viewed as being good enough to qualify will make it to the round and needs no protection.
