02/11/2024
Breaking News: Chamisa Praises Botswana's Opposition Victory and Smooth Power Transition
Botswana’s recent election has captured the attention of Nelson Chamisa, former leader of Zimbabwe’s Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), who praised the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) for securing victory in what he called a smooth and mature transition of power. Congratulating Botswana’s outgoing President Mokgweetsi Masisi, Chamisa highlighted the leadership shown by Masisi in conceding defeat.
Chamisa, who has faced defeat twice in Zimbabwe’s presidential elections against Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasized Masisi’s actions as a model of democratic maturity, adding, “I am overjoyed with the news from Botswana. I’ve sent my congratulations to President Masisi for his commitment to a peaceful transfer of authority.” Chamisa’s own political future remains uncertain as he refrains from public announcements following internal challenges within the CCC.
Botswana’s election on October 30 featured intense competition, with the UDC’s Duma Boko, a prominent lawyer, facing three other contenders, including Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) leader and incumbent President Masisi, as well as leaders from the Botswana Congress Party and Botswana Patriotic Front. The UDC’s 36 parliamentary seats surpassed the 31-seat threshold required for a majority, marking the end of nearly six decades of BDP rule.
Former President Ian Khama and UDC members had previously accused Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu PF party of meddling in Botswana’s elections. Nonetheless, international observers have celebrated the election as a peaceful and historic moment in Botswana’s democratic journey.
President Masisi gracefully accepted the results, saying, “I am committed to strengthening our nation and working with the new administration for the benefit of all citizens. I look forward to attending the inauguration.