For instance, in the 2014 General Election, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) won four out of five constituencies in Gaborone while the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) won one. In contrast, the BDP secured control of all five constituencies in 2019, while, in 2009, the representation included a mix of Members of Parliament (MPs) from different parties.
This year, key contenders for the city’s leadership include the the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), the BDP, the Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD), the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), and the UDC. Ultimately, voters in Gaborone will decide which party they believe can best represent their interests. Thus, the upcoming polls will be crucial in shaping the future of the city’s political landscape.
Gaborone Central ConstituencyThe contest for Gaborone Central is primarily amongst four parties, with three candidates emerging as strong contenders; the BCP, the BDP, and the UDC. This constituency is particularly challenging to predict, making the competition even more intriguing.
Botswana Congress PartyThe BCP is represented by Mpho Pheko, who is seeking election for the second time. While her previous attempts have laid some groundwork, it remains to be seen if she has solidified her support base.
As a professor at the University of Botswana (UB), she enjoys an advantage in terms of local recognition, especially since the university falls within her constituency. Additionally, her experience adds to her credibility as a candidate. The BCP has previously had two MPs representing the area (the late Michael Dingake and Dumelang Saleshando).
Umbrella for Democratic ChangePhenyo Butale, the former MP for the area, is another significant contender. His party is well established in Gaborone Central, and his campaign is bolstered by support from UB students as well, providing him with an edge.
Butale’s prior experience as an MP equips him with valuable insights into the dynamics of the constituency. He is a fighter who is not ready to give up.
Botswana Democratic PartyBontsi Monare represents the BDP and is no stranger to political activism, although he has not contested in a General Election before. His party has historically performed well in Gaborone Central, having won the constituency before through Margaret Nasha and Tumisang Mangwegape Healy. Nevertheless, Monare faces the challenge of differentiating himself from his competitors and convincing voters of his capabilities, especially in light of the strong profiles of other candidates. The BDP aims to retain its influence in the area, making Monare’s efforts crucial in the upcoming election.
Botswana Movement Democracy The BMD is entering Gaborone Central for the first time, presenting another challenge. Magdeline Nkhumba, the party’s candidate, must exert considerable effort to persuade voters to support her. Currently, the BMD lacks visibility and the presence of other parties in the area makes her task even more daunting. It will be interesting to see how she addresses these challenges as the election approaches.
Botswana Patriotic FrontKemmonye Sekati, the candidate for the BPF, is entering the race later than his competitors, raising questions about his ability to make a significant impact. The BPF has struggled to gain support in the southern region of Botswana, and it remains to be seen if it can achieve notable numbers in Gaborone.
Gaborone Bonnington
South Constituency
Competition for Gaborone Bonnington South features several notable candidates, each with unique strengths and challenges.
Botswana Democratic PartyChristian Greeff is vying for a second term as the area’s MP. Known for his strong character and diligent work ethic, Greeff’s success will largely depend on whether he has fulfilled his campaign promises. His party’s established presence in the region further strengthens his position.
Umbrella for Democratic ChangeNdaba Gaolathe, the UDC candidate and former MP for the area, is also in the race. Renowned for his calm demeanour and ability to connect with constituents, Gaolathe is a hardworking candidate. Despite losing in the 2019 General Election, he possesses the experience necessary to make a strong comeback this time.
Botswana Movement for DemocracyThongbotho Morupisi, representing the Botswana Movement for Democracy, faces a significant challenge as the party remains largely unknown in the area. Currently, the BMD’s visibility is limited, making Morupisi’s task of gaining voter support even more difficult.
Botswana Congress PartyWhile the BCP has a presence in Gaborone Bonnington South, it does not have the same strength as the UDC or the BDP. Montwedi Muzila, the BCP candidate, must work diligently to enhance his party’s visibility and support. Known in the area for his hard work, Muzila will need to intensify his efforts to make a significant impact in the election.
Gaborone Bonnington
North ConstituencyGaborone Bonnington North like other constituencies has strong candidates, main players being the BDP and the UDC. Without ruling out other candidates.
Botswana Democratic Party Anna Mokgethi will be seeking a second term in Parliament after winning elections in 2019. What makes her strong is that her party is more visible in the area and she has a strong team of candidates contesting for council seats. Her victory will depend on whether she has delivered her constituents’ needs. If the constituents were pleased with her five-year advocacy, they would consider taking her back, if not that would be a setback for her. As she was part of the President Mokgweetsi Masisi-led Cabinet, the ministerial position often takes one away from the constituency they are representing, it will come to light if her ministerial position helped her to be closer to her constituency or if it made her abandon the people she represented.
Umbrella for Democratic ChangeIts candidate Maipelo Mophuthing, although new to active politics, her party is very strong in the area. The area has been formerly a stronghold for the BNF, an affiliate of the UDC, so it will not be surprising if she wins it. Dating back, key members from the BNF won the constituency. Her campaign team consists of party veterans, current party leaders, especially party president Duma Boko as well as the youth. She has by far made inroads and managed to sway some disgruntled former leaders. Of recent, she became popular for winning a global icon award in Doha Qatar, Women’s Development Advocate.
Botswana Congress PartyThe BCP is not that strong in this area as compared to the UDC and the BDP. Its candidate Reverend Prince Dibeela has a long way to go as he has to convince the candidates to vote for his party. Despite being well-known and recognised for his hard work, Dibeela still has considerable ground to cover. His party maintains a visible presence in the area, and he actively engages in house-to-house campaigns with his team. This hands-on approach may prove beneficial and could lead to positive results in the upcoming election.
Botswana Movement for DemocracyThe BMD faces significant challenges in Gaborone Bonnington North, particularly in terms of visibility compared to other parties. Its candidate, Donald Motsumi, has a considerable amount of work ahead, including a focused house-to-house campaign to build support and raise the party’s profile in the area.
