Botswana's ruling party, the Botswana Democratic Party, conceded defeat after 58 years in power, as President Mokgweetsi Masisi acknowledged the victory of the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change led by Duma Boko.
In a historic shift, Botswana's ruling party, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), has lost the presidential election after 58 years in power. President Mokgweetsi Masisi conceded defeat on November 1, 2024, acknowledging his party’s poor performance, which saw it polling fourth according to preliminary tallies from the electoral commission.
The opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), led by Duma Boko, emerged as the clear frontrunner, securing the majority of parliamentary seats. In a press conference held in Gaborone, Masisi expressed his dismay, stating, “We got it wrong big time in the eyes of the people.” He admitted that the party had failed to resonate with the electorate, particularly the youth, who are increasingly frustrated with socio-economic issues despite Botswana’s diamond wealth.
Masisi, who was seeking a second five-year term, pledged to ensure a smooth transition of power. He stated, “I will respectfully step aside and participate in a smooth transition process ahead of inauguration.” He congratulated the UDC and acknowledged the importance of upholding democratic values and respecting the will of the people.
As the results await final confirmation from the electoral commission, Botswana, with a registered voter base of over one million, faces a new political landscape amid ongoing concerns about unemployment and resource management issues that plagued Masisi's administration.
