Gaborone – Botswana’s political landscape shifted dramatically on Friday as President Mokgweetsi Masisi conceded defeat, marking the end of the Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) 58-year rule. The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition, led by 54-year-old lawyer Duma Boko, secured a decisive victory, winning the majority in parliament, according to results aired on state television.
Masisi, in a recorded message shared on social media, acknowledged the historic loss and promised a smooth transition. “From tomorrow, I will start the process of handover, and you can count on me to always be there to provide whatever guidance you might want,” he said in a message to Boko. “We will retreat to being a loyal opposition and work with you for the betterment of our country.”
The BDP’s defeat reflects rising socio-economic frustrations among voters, particularly young people affected by high unemployment and economic stagnation. Botswana’s economy, heavily dependent on diamond exports, has struggled following a downturn in the global diamond market, with growth slowing and unemployment climbing to 28%.
Political analyst Ringisai Chikohomero of the Institute for Security Studies attributed the BDP’s downfall to its reliance on incumbency without offering new solutions, while the UDC’s campaign focused on transformative policies. “After 58 years in power, the BDP didn’t have anything new to offer,” he noted, highlighting the UDC’s promises to double the minimum wage, improve social services, and strengthen judicial independence.
Results indicated that the UDC claimed 32 of the 55 constituencies reported, while the BDP captured only four seats, trailing behind the other three major parties.
In Gaborone, small groups of opposition supporters celebrated, reflecting the mood of change. “I did not ever think I would witness this change in my life,” said 23-year-old student Mpho Mogorosi. “The BDP had stayed too long in power, and I am proud to be part of the people that removed them for a better Botswana.”
Boko is not expected to pursue changes to Botswana’s recent diamond revenue agreement with De Beers, which was negotiated by Masisi to ensure a larger share of the country’s diamond wealth for the government. Botswana remains the world’s top diamond producer by value, with the government holding a 15% stake in De Beers, a vital economic partnership.
