- Plans for 2025

The Botswana National Front (BNF) joined the African National Congress (ANC) in celebrating the liberation movement’s 113th anniversary in South Africa over the weekend.

Addressing the media Monday, BNF Secretary General and Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa stated that the trip was primarily focused on fostering international relations.

“The main reason we attended the ANC event was to strengthen our international relations work,” he said. He also emphasised that the BNF remains committed to implementing their manifesto within the first 100 days of 2025.

The Secretary General announced that the BNF will hold its Central Committee meeting on February 1.

“The meeting will be packed with activities, including a review of our strategic plans and an evaluation of our 2025 programme of action,” he said.

He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its coalition with the Alliance for Progressives (AP) and the Botswana People’s Party (BPP).

Dr Patrick Molutsi, Chairperson of the BNF, shared insights from their interaction with the ANC, particularly on governance and party discipline.

“The ANC’s experience in the Government of National Unity taught us valuable lessons. They learned from their previous elections that poor governance, corruption, failure to deliver on promises, and lack of discipline were key factors in their loss of support,” Dr Molutsi said.

He added that the BNF intends to avoid these pitfalls.

“We will remain principled and deliver on the manifesto we sold to Batswana. We must behave as a party that is in government,” he emphasised.

Deputy Secretary General and Minister of Defense and Correctional Services, Nelson Ramaotwana, highlighted the party’s growing membership base.

“We are committed to issuing 50,000 membership cards during our first congress,” Ramaotwana said, revealing that the party currently has 150,000 members captured in its system.

“This shows that many people are migrating to join the now ruling party,” he added.

By focusing on discipline, good governance, and delivering on their promises, BNF aims to build trust and strengthen their connection with the people.