Botswana, the diamond-rich nation in Southern Africa, cast its votes on Wednesday in a pivotal general election. The ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) aims to extend its nearly six-decade rule and secure a second term for President Mokgweetsi Masisi.
Polls opened at 6:30 AM (0430 GMT) for over a million registered voters, with four presidential candidates vying to lead the region’s oldest democracy, established after independence from Britain in 1966.
“It is my time to voice my opinion. I can’t wait,” said Lone Kobe, 38, who had been waiting in line since 3:15 AM at a polling station in Gaborone. “I would like to experience a new Botswana. We are just spectators in a movie, while a small percentage enjoys the benefits.”
Voter sentiments reflect a desire for true democracy, transparency, and fair elections, as expressed by 56-year-old Muthisi Kemo, who arrived three hours before the polls opened. “It’s an open secret,” he added, referencing concerns about irregularities in the Independent Electoral Authority (IEC) that may favor the ruling party.
High unemployment, currently at 27%, looms large in voters’ minds, coupled with allegations of government corruption and mismanagement. The ruling party, however, points to the adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and a decline in diamond revenues as contributing factors to economic challenges.
Masisi, 63, held a spirited final campaign rally with about 400 supporters in the capital on Tuesday, expressing his commitment to build on his accomplishments from the past five years. Supporters like Queen Mosiane, 34, praised the government for its support during her childhood and emphasized the peace and stability under the BDP.
“The opportunities we find today are because of the BDP,” said civil servant Refile Kutlwano, 34. “The opposition is not ready to govern.”
Masisi was elected in 2019 with approximately 52% of the vote. While the BDP is not expected to perform significantly better this time, the fractured state of the opposition complicates their efforts. The main opposition alliance, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), led by Duma Boko, 54, has faced setbacks, losing two key members in the lead-up to the elections.
Voters like Ookeditse Letshwenyo, 23, expressed frustration with the longstanding leadership. “Since our independence, we’ve been ruled by the same people with the same mindset. You can’t win against the BDP while you are divided,” he lamented.
Despite a recent surge in opposition energy following the return of former president Ian Khama from exile to campaign against Masisi, analysts suggest his influence remains limited to a few districts.
With 61 parliamentary seats up for grabs, the first party to secure 31 will be declared the winner and install its candidate as president. Counting began shortly after polls closed at 7:00 PM (1700 GMT), with results anticipated late Thursday.
