Masisi turns to Bazezuru for BDP support

Innocent Selatlhwa | Tuesday June 11, 2024 11:40

Over the weekend, dozens of Bazezuru expressed their support for Masisi and joined the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Although the Bazezuru haven't been prominently visible in Botswana's political landscape, President Masisi has engaged with them since 2019, when he attended the launch of Ignatius Moswaane in October of that year. Images of the President singing with the Bazezuru touched many's hearts and he has since continued to engage with them. With elections looming once again and a strong determination to reclaim constituencies lost to the opposition in 2019, particularly in the Central region, Masisi is actively recruiting Bazezuru into his party. Masisi has been travelling across the country, addressing star rallies and meeting with Bazezuru and their church leaders. Last weekend, he met with Bazezuru in Palapye and Serowe, where they turned up in large numbers.

In Palapye, after meeting with Bazezuru, the President joined them in a special performance. They sang for him and his party and then paraded with red umbrellas. Masisi called on the Pastor and his congregation to fill the grounds, demonstrating the BDP's commitment to inclusivity. 'It isn't like they weren't welcome in the BDP before. We are showing seriousness and we have them here to show that. Please embrace them wherever you are as democrats,' Masisi said. 'They work hard with their hands and are very obedient. I want you BDP members to embrace them and copy some traits from them. Most of them have registered to vote. Those who didn't register also promised to campaign and win Palapye for us.' He added that Bazezuru promised to recruit others and promote the BDP, even amongst those in the opposition.

Meanwhile, Kgosi Martha Lebang, a headman of records at the Palapye sub-tribal authority, praised Masisi's efforts to uplift the Bazezuru community. She commended the President, stating that Dikgosi recognised the work he was doing for Botswana. She urged BDP members to protect their organisation by fostering love, and unity, and resolving any issues amicably. Lebang lauded Masisi for acknowledging Bazezuru. 'This is something that made me very happy. We have Bazezuru in Palapye who I love. You are close to them and you give them love to show they are appreciated members of the society. 'Please do the same and unite all merafe across the country. I was really happy to see them arrive here to be part of this event. They also have rights as Batswana,' she said. As the election draws nearer, Masisi's strategy of engaging with diverse communities, including Bazezuru, highlights his inclusive approach and determination to secure a broad base of support for the BDP.