Botswana Ruling Party Loses: Masisi Concedes Defeat

Botswana Ruling Party Loses: Masisi Concedes Defeat

Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi – who is Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa's close political ally – has conceded defeat to the main opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change leader, Harvard-trained lawyer Duma Boko.

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) which has been in power for nearly 60 years since the days of Sir Seretse Khama has lost power for the first time.

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In an state of utter shock, but gracious and setting a democratic example for his country and the region, Masisi said:

“Starting tomorrow or as in my discussion with the president elect, at a time convenient to him, we will begin all administrative work to facilitate the transition and I assure you that I will not take any actions to hinder or slow down this process.

Botswana Ruling Party Loses: Masisi Concedes Defeat

“I will also hand over all outstanding government matters to the new president so he may address them after his inauguration. 

“I will continue to serve the interests of my beloved Botswana within the parameters of our constitution. 

“I promise to do my part to build a strong country from within and to work with the new administration to ensue that every citizen has opportunities at their finger tips. I look forward to attending the inauguration.”

The actions of Masisi who is the country’s 4th president, and his BDP party are consistent with the political culture in Botswana which is one of Africa's most stable democracies.

The BDP maintained a tolerant political environment even if it was a super majority party for the past 6 decades.