President of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Mokgweetsi Masisi, has questioned the developmental contributions of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government since taking office.
Addressing the media at the Maharaja Conference Centre this Tuesday, Masisi proudly highlighted the progress his government achieved in just two and a half years, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Masisi cited several key projects as evidence of the BDP's accomplishments, including the BIUST satellite project, the Phikwe Citrus project, the landmark deal with De Beers, SmartBots connectivity, the introduction of Starlink in Botswana, free Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) connectivity, and significant infrastructure development. He also emphasized advancements in agriculture, such as importing cattle and goats, renewing the Botswana Vaccine Institute partnership, and promoting local farmers.
“We did it. We did all these things,” Masisi declared, refuting criticism of his frequent travels. He explained that his international engagements were aimed at building relationships that ultimately benefited Botswana. “We were not reckless spenders. We used Botswana’s money frugally, responding to the economic situation,” he added.
Masisi did not hold back in his criticism of the UDC-led government, accusing them of lacking a plan to create new wealth. “Any government faces challenges. It is their turn now, and they must rise up and stop complaining like babies,” he said. He questioned where the current administration found the funds to increase the number of Specially-Elected Council members and to “gallivant” around the country, given their claims of financial constraints.
The BDP leader also criticized the UDC’s decision to remove the vegetable import ban, arguing that it harms local farmers. “It is so bad that the African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General celebrated this decision because it heavily benefits their farmers,” he said. Masisi reiterated that his government had laid a strong foundation and handed over power transparently. “Anyone who stole from the government must face the law,” he asserted.
Despite his criticisms, Masisi expressed support for the new government’s success, emphasizing that the BDP would renew itself and return stronger. “We think this change of government has been a very horrible disturbance to our programme,” he said, adding that the BDP’s upcoming congress, scheduled for around July in Maun, would be a platform for renewal.
Masisi dismissed rumors that he is clinging to the party presidency due to the BDP’s alleged P100 million coffers. “This is not true. I first heard about this on social media,” he said, revealing that he had even consulted former party treasurer Satar Dada, who confirmed there was no such amount.
He urged BDP members interested in running for positions to begin campaigning and to conduct themselves respectfully. “The party will not tolerate any disrespectful behavior,” Masisi warned, emphasizing unity and decorum as the BDP prepares for its congress.
Masisi remains proud of the BDP’s achievements while challenging the UDC to deliver on its promises. He remains confident in the BDP’s ability to rebound and continue serving the nation.
Addressing the media at the Maharaja Conference Centre this Tuesday, Masisi proudly highlighted the progress his government achieved in just two and a half years, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Masisi cited several key projects as evidence of the BDP's accomplishments, including the BIUST satellite project, the Phikwe Citrus project, the landmark deal with De Beers, SmartBots connectivity, the introduction of Starlink in Botswana, free Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) connectivity, and significant infrastructure development. He also emphasized advancements in agriculture, such as importing cattle and goats, renewing the Botswana Vaccine Institute partnership, and promoting local farmers.
“We did it. We did all these things,” Masisi declared, refuting criticism of his frequent travels. He explained that his international engagements were aimed at building relationships that ultimately benefited Botswana. “We were not reckless spenders. We used Botswana’s money frugally, responding to the economic situation,” he added.
Masisi did not hold back in his criticism of the UDC-led government, accusing them of lacking a plan to create new wealth. “Any government faces challenges. It is their turn now, and they must rise up and stop complaining like babies,” he said. He questioned where the current administration found the funds to increase the number of Specially-Elected Council members and to “gallivant” around the country, given their claims of financial constraints.
The BDP leader also criticized the UDC’s decision to remove the vegetable import ban, arguing that it harms local farmers. “It is so bad that the African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General celebrated this decision because it heavily benefits their farmers,” he said. Masisi reiterated that his government had laid a strong foundation and handed over power transparently. “Anyone who stole from the government must face the law,” he asserted.
Despite his criticisms, Masisi expressed support for the new government’s success, emphasizing that the BDP would renew itself and return stronger. “We think this change of government has been a very horrible disturbance to our programme,” he said, adding that the BDP’s upcoming congress, scheduled for around July in Maun, would be a platform for renewal.
Masisi dismissed rumors that he is clinging to the party presidency due to the BDP’s alleged P100 million coffers. “This is not true. I first heard about this on social media,” he said, revealing that he had even consulted former party treasurer Satar Dada, who confirmed there was no such amount.
He urged BDP members interested in running for positions to begin campaigning and to conduct themselves respectfully. “The party will not tolerate any disrespectful behavior,” Masisi warned, emphasizing unity and decorum as the BDP prepares for its congress.
Masisi remains proud of the BDP’s achievements while challenging the UDC to deliver on its promises. He remains confident in the BDP’s ability to rebound and continue serving the nation.
