Onalenna Modikwa
16 September 2008
Mogapi — The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) convened a special congress for the Bobirwa, Mmadinare and Selebi-Phikwe region in Mogapi last Saturday to chart the way forward after the recent primary elections.
Chairman of the region, Nathaniel Moribame said at the congress that he is happy with the outcome of the primary elections though there are some protests. "We have attended to all complaints and took appropriate action after summoning all the complainants to Bosele Hotel," he said. He told losers, who are not happy with the regional committee's decision, that they are free to appeal to the Central Committee. Moribame advised candidates never to engage in squabbles because tension is detrimental to the welfare of the party. He said at the end of the day, the final decision is made by the electorate.
"We must work hard and desist from waging our support to the opposition due to disgruntlement. De-campaigning fellow party members and candidates is a punishable offence by the party. Recognise our party as a family that needs each other's support and input and let us approach the coming elections as a strong and united team." He said they have instructed branch committees to activate all BDP structures and ensure the involvement of all primary election candidates in the party activities. He said the regional committee will visit all the branches. This is necessary to ensure that every structure is ready for the general elections.
Another regional congress is scheduled for next month to evaluate and assess progress. Last weekend's congress was a follow-up to the one held in Mathathane in June. The Mathathane congress included all candidates and party officials. Moribame said though complaints are few, there are rumours that some candidates employed dirty tricks in the campaign.
Meanwhile those who lost in the primary elections have openly pledged their support to their conquerors. Allen Lekwapa who contested against cabinet minister and Mmadinare MP Ponatshego Kedikilwe urged BDP members to understand the responsibility of party membership. He advised them to enter the political race expecting a win or a loss. He said some party members are so irresponsible that they vow not to support the winning candidates. He suggested that another congress be convened for party members to identify and rectify weaknesses ahead of the 2009 elections. "Perseverance and reliability among party members will enhance the spirit of compromise among us and I warn you that if the party breaks up, it will be because of us the members and not any outside force. If winners do not support losers, then they should be reported to the regional committee."
Lekwapa urged losers to accept and respect the outcome of the primaries. He said the regional committee should be very strict in following party regulations and punishing those who violate them.
However, some members felt that winners especially those who are already in positions of responsibility, tend to isolate losers and do not allow reconciliation. "Candidates do not discipline their campaign teams who go around insulting us. Once you have lost, you are treated like trash. How do we work with winners if they shun us?. We have even seen situations where observers campaign for some candidates," he said.
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