BCP, BLP to contest in all 61 constituencies
● Out of 61 constituencies, BCP will contest in 44 constituencies, BLP 17
The Botswana Congress Party (BCP) and its partner Botswana Labour Party (BLP) will contest in all the constituencies and all wards in the coming general election. Out of the 61 constituencies, the BCP will contest in 44 while BLP will have 17. So far, the BCP conducted their primary elections, while other parties are yet to start the primaries.
For example, the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) have only requested those who want to contest to fill expression of interest forms. On the other hand, it is not yet clear if the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) and its partners will hold theirs or not. Botswana is holding its general elections next October. “BCP has through its primary election identified 37 Members of Parliament and 299 councillors.
It is important for our candidates to start campaigning early. That on its own helps us to talk to people while in time and also to teach them about the importance of voting,” said BCP secretary-general, Goretetse Kekgonegile.
“Next year, it will be a busy year for candidates. Again, primary elections have their challenges that include protest hence it is important for one to deal with these issues before the year of elections.”
He said the BCP takes the democratic process of election very serious where people are given an opportunity to choose a person they want to be a candidate. Kekgonegile said there was no way they could avoid it, especially after pulling out from UDC.
He said the BCP members would want someone they could trust to lead them, adding that the first phase of primaries were held in September this year, and the last ones are billed for December 2, 2023.
He also stated that the primaries are a crucial part of the party’s democratic process. The secretary-general said the party manifesto is being finalised with its signature and footprints. Moreover, the manifesto will be launched on December 16, 2023, with a complete version to be unveiled in February.