Botswana, one of Africa’s longest-standing democracies, is witnessing a seismic shift. For 58 years, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) held the reins, steering the country with a reputation for stability and democratic values.
Yet, the recent election saw the opposition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), oust the BDP in a surprise victory. This transition, however peaceful, speaks volumes about democratic accountability, citizens’ expectations, and the shifting political landscape in Africa.
Botswana’s shift in leadership holds critical lessons for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Africa at large. As African nations continue to contend with economic uncertainty, resource dependency, and calls for political reform, Botswana’s election outcome underscores the need for a democratic reset across the continent.
Here’s a closer look at what Botswana’s new chapter reveals and why…
