Taolo Moshaga quits BDP, enters race for Kanye East as Mokoko

Moshaga recalls joining the BDP during the tenure of former president Ian Khama as vice president, and being welcomed into the party by former BDP legislator Botsalo Ntuane.

Renowned for his uniquely oversized BDP-design suits, the philanthropist Moshaga formally resigned last week, stating that he received a stamped letter confirming the termination of his BDP membership.

In an interview with The Midweek Sun earlier this week, he expressed that the present-day BDP differs significantly from its past incarnation, lacking political maturity, visionary leadership and political tolerance.

He said he is not interested in cheap politics, and expressed a desire to focus on issues affecting Batswana and ordinary citizens.

He stated that the first President of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama believed in having an effective opposition for the proper running of the country to keep the ruling party in check.

'I am currently awaiting the final decision from the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the green light to run as an independent candidate.

“I am dedicated to promoting critical thinking and freedom of expression among all Batswana, and I am committed to furthering the advancement of democracy in our country,' he stated.

He asserted that one of Botswana's challenges is leadership vacuum, which results in unethical and unprofessional individuals in positions of leadership. The vacuum, he said, is the root cause of the disorder within political

parties, NGOs, and central governance.

He advocates for political parties to objectively exchange ideas and employ critical thinking in their decision-making processes.

Moshaga was born and bred in Kanye East and he describes himself as a ready oiled machine. He says there has not been effective leadership within the constituency so far.

His view is that this is a time to employ servant leadership where politicians lead like Jesus Christ, where there are no favourites or bootlickers. 'I am naturally a leader and always ready for a new role,' he said.

However, prior to Moshaga's resignation, there were circulating allegations within Kanye suggesting that he was aligning himself with the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF).

Addressing these allegations, Moshaga said his resignation from the BDP had long been anticipated but he never aligned himself with any political party.

Moshaga sees himself as a nation-builder, highlighting his collaborations with individuals from opposition parties such as Advocate Duma Boko, BCP's Dumelang Saleshando, and AP’s Ndaba Gaolatlhe.

Moshaga expressed frustration with individuals who are subjective and self-centred, that falsely accuse him and spread misinformation that misleads the nation.

He aims to promote Botswana's image, highlighting the need for voter education to prevent voters from being swayed by beer and food. He urges Batswana to vote freely.

Moshaga also presents himself as a national figure who has engaged with and supported youth, local churches, and village development offices for over four decades, with a commitment to further uplift Botswana.

Speaking in terms of the economy, Moshaga said the country is struggling, the education system is in disarray with declining results, and unemployment is on the rise. He is the first Motswana to confer two sitting Presidents with awards.

He previously awarded former President Khama for visionary leadership and similarly recognised President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi. This in his view indicates the importance of unity and prioritising Botswana's interests.

He appealed for support from constituents in Kanye East, expressing his desire to secure the parliamentary seat. He aims to elevate the importance of Bogosi and bring about significant transformation in Botswana.

Moshaga also intends to maintain his collaboration with the youth. He will be competing for the parliamentary seat against the BDP candidate who emerges victorious in the primary elections, as well as other independent candidates who may enter the race.

The BDP candidates vying for the parliamentary seat against the incumbent, Thapelo Letsholo, include Thamiso Chabalala, Kentse Rammidi, and Victor Makuku.