Ruling Botswana party ousted after 58 years in power
Voters in Botswana have voted against the country’s long-serving governing party in a result that marks a seismic political shift in the diamond-rich southern African nation as President Mokgweetsi Masisi conceded defeat on November 1 according to the BBC.
The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) – in power for nearly six decades since independence in 1966 – has won only four parliamentary seats as of November 1. It will now be replaced by the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
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Despite overseeing a dramatic change in Botswana, recent poor economic growth and high levels of unemployment have dented the BDP’s popularity.
“I will respectfully step aside and participate in a smooth transition process ahead of inauguration. I am proud of our democratic processes and I respect the will of the people,” said President Masisi speaking at a press conference.
Masisi also urged his supporters to remain calm and rally behind the newly elected government.
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The UDC has vowed to adopt a new economic strategy that will create well-paying jobs and distribute wealth to help empower all citizens.
UDC Leader Duma Boko made a brief statement to the country’s media.
“What has happened today takes our democracy to a higher level. It now means we’ve seen a successful, peaceful, orderly democratic transition,” he said.
BBC
