GABORONE, Botswana: Voters in Botswana have rejected the country’s long-serving governing party in a result that marks a political earthquake in the diamond-rich southern African nation.
The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) – in power since independence in 1966 – has won only one parliamentary seat as of early Friday morning. It looks set to be replaced by the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
President Mokgweetsi Masisi has conceded, saying that it was clear his party had lost “massively”.
Despite overseeing a dramatic change in Botswana, recent poor economic growth and high unemployment dented the BDP’s popularity.
ALSO READ: Russia fines Google more money than there is in entire world
“I will respectfully step aside and participate in a smooth transition process ahead of inauguration,” Masisi said in a press conference on Friday.
He has urged his supporters to remain calm and rally behind the new government.
The UDC, led by human rights lawyer Duma Boko, has won 25 seats, according to the early tallies.
The party is projected to pass the 31-seat threshold for a majority in parliament.
It has pledged to adopt a new economic strategy that creates well-paying jobs and distributes wealth that empowers all citizens.
Comments are closed.