Disagreements erupt over Bulela Ditswe rules

Disgruntled members of Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) say the party is likely to face yet another disappointing general election in 2019 on account of the dictatorial tendencies displayed by party President Ian Khama. They accuse Khama of being a dictator by barring them from using Facebook and other social media platforms to campaign during the primary elections.

As if that is not enough, those not impressed by the decision say Khama does not want his blue eyed ministers to lose during the primary elections, something which cost BDP dearly in the past general election.

A BDP Member of Parliament who preferred anonymity said that the party is in violation of civil liberties as the decision to prevent people from voting a candidate of their choice is undemocratic. He said in the event they are forced to opt for a consensus candidate, it will always be those close to the president who will be chosen over other deserving candidates thereby jeopardising the party’s chances of winning in the general election in 2019 as “a lot of us will show our unhappiness by voting for the opposition.”

Efforts to solicit a comment from BDP Secretary General Mpho Balopi hit a snag at press time as his mobile rang unanswered. A text message left on his mobile was still unattended at press time.