Boko says Botswana is becoming more authoritarian

Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) chairman Duma Boko issued a stark warning about the current state of Botswana as he launched the alliance’s manifesto. Addressing a packed auditorium at the Royal Alia Stadium in Trokwen, Boko painted a grim picture of the country, saying it was reeling from endemic corruption, a flawed judiciary and an increasingly authoritarian government.

Boko was blunt in his assessment of the current state of affairs in Botswana. “Botswana is facing a dire situation,” he declared, outlining a host of problems plaguing the country. He noted that the judiciary “has no integrity,” that oversight bodies have lost their power and credibility, and that the legislature has become impotent and subservient to what Boko called a “violent” and “uncontrollable” president.

He believes that the current government, led by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), has run the country into a corner, with greed, corruption and economic collapse defining the modern era. Boko believes that the hopes raised by the 2019 general election have been completely dashed, leading to widespread disappointment among citizens. “This is the naked reality. The country is on a dangerous path,” he warned. However, Boko stressed that the upcoming elections offer the people of Botswana a choice – an opportunity to take the country in a new direction. “There is a divergence in the path before us,” he said, contrasting the UDC’s vision with that of the BDP, which he said offers “more of the same: authoritarian arrogance and institutionalized plunder.”

Boko positioned the UDC as the only viable alternative to the current government, arguing that the party is acutely aware of the challenges facing Botswana and is ready to provide lasting solutions. “Our manifesto presents a high-impact policy outline with real and effective interventions,” he said. Boko argued that the UDC’s agenda is underpinned by a strong commitment to meritocracy, accountability and innovation, which he believes will lead to a rejuvenated democracy and a vibrant economy. “Our country is hungry for change,” Boko asserted, urging the citizens of Botswana to join the UDC in their shared quest for inclusive growth and improved quality of life for all.

At the heart of the UDC manifesto is a bold economic plan to create jobs and drive growth across sectors. The party has set an ambitious target of creating 450,000 to 500,000 jobs over the next five years. Boko explained that these jobs will be created through a variety of initiatives, including transformative infrastructure projects such as a fast train network, water supply systems, power infrastructure and smart urban transport systems.

The UDC also plans to elevate Botswana’s “creative economy”, tapping into indigenous talent in the arts, music, dance and media. Boko believes the sector has huge potential to create jobs and wealth, especially through strategic management and the use of modern technology platforms.

Another key aspect of the UDC’s economic plan is to create a fairer economy where every citizen has equal access to opportunities, regardless of their background or relationship with those in power. The party believes this will lead to more sustainable and well-paying jobs, with the goal of building an economy that can sustain an average wage of 10,000 pesos or more.

In addition to job creation, the UDC’s manifesto outlines a strategy to comprehensively transform Botswana’s economy. The party aims to achieve annual growth of at least 10%, driven by a diversified and vibrant economy. The UDC’s vision is for Botswana to become a leader in solar and energy production, create green jobs, and establish export-focused non-mining “mega-companies” to promote high-productivity sub-sectors and emerging industries. The party also plans to develop indigenous foods, medicines and materials through systematic research and development, transform agriculture and agro-processing to increase production and create more jobs, and enhance Botswana’s tourism product through better coordination and diversification. Botswana’s potential as a transportation hub for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) market and a top global diamond trading center is also a core part of the UDC’s vision.

The manifesto also proposes several social reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for all Batswana. These reforms include comprehensive health insurance for every citizen and permanent resident, a significant increase in pension allowances, and free sanitary pads for girls in primary and secondary schools. To ensure that no one is left behind, the UDC plans to introduce a mixed-member electoral system to elect members specifically for women, youth, and disadvantaged groups. The party also proposes launching a national community service program with a monthly stipend of 2,500 pesos and establishing a grant fund system for the informal sector.