Gare eyes BDP chairmanship, aims to restore trust in party
Member of Parliament for Moshupa/Manyana, Karabo Gare, has officially entered the race for the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) chairmanship ahead of the party’s upcoming congress.
The congress will be held in Maun on the 10th of May.
Gare has outlined his vision for strengthening the party, proposing enhanced grassroots mobilisation, improved digital outreach efforts, refined policy messaging, and better coordination within party structures.
He explained to this publication that his motivation stems from a deep commitment to reinforcing the BDP’s role as a trusted vehicle for Botswana’s development.
Having served in various leadership positions, Gare sees a need for unifying leadership that addresses emerging challenges while ensuring the party remains well-positioned for future success.
Gare emphasises inclusivity, transparency, and accountability as key pillars in his strategy to address the challenges currently facing the BDP.
He intends to engage members at all levels, foster dialogue to resolve internal conflicts, and strengthen party structures to be more responsive to concerns raised by members.
He explained that his tenure as Minister of Entrepreneurship has provided him with valuable experience in economic empowerment and participatory leadership, aspects which he believes will shape his leadership approach in the party.
He aims to introduce programmes that uplift party members economically while creating platforms for idea-sharing and leadership development.
Ahead of the next general elections, Gare proposes strengthening grassroots mobilisation, enhancing digital outreach efforts, refining policy messaging, and improving coordination within party structures.
He also underscores the importance of engaging youth and women in party activities to ensure broad-based participation.
To mobilise the youth, Gare intends to create leadership development platforms, support entrepreneurial initiatives, and facilitate youth-led projects within the party.
He stresses the importance of mentorship programmes and ensuring that young voices are actively involved in policymaking.
Transparency and accountability remain central to his vision for the party’s leadership. He pledges to introduce regular engagement forums, structured reporting mechanisms, and clear communication regarding party finances and decisions.
An open-door policy will be crucial in making members feel heard and valued, he asserts.
Balancing his responsibilities as a Member of Parliament and potential party chairman, Gare plans to rely on effective delegation, strong support structures, and a disciplined schedule that ensures both governance and party affairs receive due attention.
Looking ahead, his vision for the BDP revolves around the party serving as a catalyst for economic transformation, job creation, and social development.
He envisions a party that drives progressive policies, fosters economic inclusivity, and strengthens democratic governance over the next decade.
Addressing internal divisions, Gare aims to promote inclusivity by creating dialogue platforms and ensuring equitable representation across all party structures.
He emphasises unity in diversity and believes that healing past divisions is essential for the party’s progress.
On communication strategies, he plans to modernise the party’s platforms through enhanced social media engagement, live feedback sessions, and a more interactive approach to disseminating party policies and decisions.
He also intends to bolster research and policy advisory units within the party to ensure responsiveness to the concerns of Botswana’s citizens. Engagement forums will also be established to address issues such as employment, education, and healthcare.
Beyond party lines, Gare advocates for issue-based politics and inter-party dialogue. He expresses a willingness to collaborate with civil society and traditional leadership to foster national unity and development.
If elected chairman, his ultimate goal is to leave behind a BDP that is stronger, more transparent, and more inclusive.
Gare envisions a party that is not only well-prepared to lead Botswana into the future but also one that remains deeply connected to the needs of its citizens.
He contests position of chairman against Kefentse Mzwinila and Dorcus Makgato.