BPF must come to the party

Mmegi Editor | Monday August 19, 2024 06:00

With just a year since its last internal legal battles, the party is once again at odds with itself, dragging its internal disagreements into the courts. These disputes not only undermine the party’s credibility but also raise serious questions about its role in Botswana’s democracy.

The ongoing legal challenges, sparked by the party’s withdrawal from the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), reflect deeper issues within the BPF.

The decision by the party president, Mephato Reatile, to pull the organisation out of the coalition has sparked confusion, frustration and outright rebellion amongst the rank and file, and other leaders.

Lack of communication and transparency regarding this decision has only fuelled the discord, leading to court cases that seek to challenge the legality of Reatile’s actions and demand clarity on the party’s direction.

These developments are not just internal party matters but have broader implications for Botswana’s democratic process. The BPF, as a relatively new party on the national political stage, holds a responsibility to contribute to the country’s democratic discourse.

However, its current state of disarray threatens to diminish its influence and effectiveness as a political player. Instead of focussing on building a cohesive strategy for the upcoming national elections, the party is embroiled in self-inflicted conflicts. The situation in Serowe, where primary elections were marred by allegations of rigging and malpractice, is another symptom of the party’s deeper problems. The inability by the BPF to conduct fair and transparent elections within its stronghold not only damages the party’s image but also raises questions about its commitment to democratic principles.

The party’s failure to address allegations of rigging and other issues swiftly and decisively could result in long-term damage to its reputation and electoral prospects come the 2024 General Election. It is imperative for the BPF leadership to recognise the gravity of the situation as the current trajectory, marked by infighting, legal battles, and leadership crises, is unsustainable. If the party is to remain relevant and contribute meaningfully to the country’s political landscape, it must urgently address its internal divisions.

This requires not only resolving the legal disputes but also fostering a culture of transparency, accountability and unity within the party.

The BPF’s role in enhancing democracy in Botswana is at a critical juncture. The party must move beyond its current conflicts and focus on presenting a united front to the electorate. Failure to do so will not only weaken the BPF, but also undermine the broader opposition’s efforts to challenge the status quo at the next polls. As a partner in the democratic process, the BPF owes it to its supporters and to the nation to put its house in order and to engage in the political process with integrity and purpose.

The time for internal bickering is over; the party must now focus on fulfilling its democratic responsibilities.

‘No government can be long secure without a formidable opposition.’

– Benjamin Disraeli