Candidate quality factor in low voter registration

The quality of candidates in elections, especially for Parliament, plays a crucial role in people’s decision to register to vote. Some argue that the low number of registered voters could be linked to the perceived lack of quality candidates running for parliamentary office.

There is a call for Members of Parliament (MPs) to meet a higher standard than councillors since Parliament is where laws are created and passed.

The debate around qualifications for MPs and councillors has been ongoing, and this idea was proposed back in 2020 by the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) stakeholders. They recommended certain qualifications for those seeking political office, believing that this would benefit both the individuals holding office and the people they represent.

According to the stakeholders, requiring MPs of qualifications would lead to more informed debates and more thorough research into proposed bills. They argue that legislators would then be better equipped to debate, vote on legislation, represent constituents’ interests, and hold the government accountable. Afro Barometer also echoed this sentiment amongst Batswana. The pan-African, independent, non-partisan research network urged political parties to nominate qualified candidates for the MP seats.

During a 2023 welcome rally in Shoshong, President Mokgweetsi Masisi urged Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members to vote for MPs who could potentially become Cabinet ministers. “Let’s vote for members who can represent your interest, as well as those who could also become ministers,” he said. Masisi emphasised the importance of choosing members who care about the party, attend party activities, and have the potential to win in their respective areas.

Political analyst, Professor Zibani Maundeni highlighted that internal divisions within political parties could lead to lower voter registration.

“Internal divisions within political parties can make it harder for people to contest elections, because factions may not be willing to support them,” Maundeni said.

He explained this issue affects not only voter registration, but also candidates running for office.

Maundeni cited the example of the Botswana National Front (BNF), where constituencies allegedly affected by internal party factions were given to other Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) affiliates. He mentioned Lentsweletau/Mmopane, Kgatleng East, and Mmadinare constituencies as examples. Members who feel their candidates have been disadvantaged due to internal party issues might choose not to vote or register.

In another example at the BDP, the issue of the MP for Lobatse, Thapelo Matsheka, caused division within the constituency. The professor said the fallout between Matsheka and his party may result in his supporters or sympathisers losing interest in registering for elections or voting. The Lobatse BDP constituency is already divided over the Matsheka issue.