Autlwetse charts path to BDP revival in SG bid

Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) Secretary General aspirant, Thabo Autlwetse has made a compelling case for his candidacy ahead of the party’s upcoming elective congress scheduled for May 10 in Maun.He promises a revival strategy anchored in political education, youth empowerment, and organisational reform.In a wide ranging interview, the 41-year-old Serowe native and long-time political activist laid out his vision for a reenergised BDP, built on four pillars: review, reform, reconnect, and re-energise.Autlwetse’s political journey began nearly two decades ago through student activism at the University of Botswana under the GS26 ticket, alongside future political figures such as Phenyo Segokgo and Andy Boatile.He credits the late Gomolemo Motswaledi and Gaotlhaetse Utlwang Sankoloba (GUS) Matlhabaphiri as key mentors who shaped his ideological grounding.“It might have been inevitable,” he reflected. “From reading about Seretse, Mandela, and Samora Machel as a child, to joining BDP youth rallies with Motswaledi, I found purpose in politics.”Autlwetse has held several positions including Branch Secretary for Gaborone Central, National Information Officer, and General Secretary of the BDP National Youth Executive Committee. He currently serves as the Regional Vice Chairperson for the North West region, the party’s largest.His decision to contest for Secretary General is borne from a deep sense of duty, conviction, and hope.“Our politics must align with the times. The 2024 elections showed us the public appetite for change,” he said. “The BDP must evolve into a modern, forward-looking political force.”If elected, Autlwetse promises to audit and revitalise the party’s internal structures, from ward level to the national executive.He proposes making the party school functional again, placing it under the direct supervision of the SG’s office to ensure proper political education and capacity building.“Only those intent on disorienting the party will face the full extent of disciplinary processes,” he added, emphasising fairness, transparency, and engagement as cornerstones of his leadership philosophy.Autlwetse’s blueprint includes specialised leadership programmes for youth and women, viewing them as critical to the party’s regeneration.“We must build a pool of competent, inspiring leaders from these demographics. Empower people and more will be drawn to your cause,” he said.He also believes political communication must evolve, noting that digital platforms are already transforming member engagement.“I prefer not to discuss strategy in the public domain, but the evolution is underway and we must embrace it fully.”Autlwetse emphasises the need for healthy contestation of ideas over personal conflicts. “Iron sharpens iron. We grow through differing views,” he said. “I want to be in rooms where people challenge me.”With a leadership style grounded in collaboration, he says his approach is about harnessing the strengths of others, decentralising responsibility, and restoring trust within the movement.Autlwetse envisions his legacy as one of revival and reconnection. “We must ensure that the BDP returns not just to power, but to purpose. The real victory lies in building a party that listens, learns,and leads with integrity.”As the congress looms, his message to delegates is; “Let us not sell our movement to the highest bidder. Let us build it for the people, with the people.”

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Autlwetse charts path to BDP revival in SG bid