In a historic election upset, Botswana’s ruling Botswana Democratic Party has lost its parliamentary majority, ending its 58-year reign.
Preliminary results show the opposition coalition, Umbrella for Democratic Change, securing a landslide victory.
The UDC, led by Duma Boko, won 25 out of 36 constituencies, while the BDP managed only three.
Botswana’s President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, graciously conceded defeat, acknowledging the will of the people. This marks a significant shift in Botswana’s political landscape.
At a press conference on Friday, Mr Masisi conceded defeat before the final results were announced. “We got it wrong big time in the eyes of the people,” Mr Masisi said in the capital, Gaborone.
“Although I wanted to stay on as your president, I respect the will of the people and I congratulate the president-elect. I will step aside and I will support the new administration.”
The UDC’s victory is a testament to the coalition’s efforts to unite opposition groups against the BDP. Duma Boko, 54, created the UDC in 2012 and has run for president twice before.
Botswana, the world’s top producer of diamonds by value, faces economic challenges due to a downturn in the diamond market. The new leadership is expected to focus on diversifying the economy.
The electoral commission is set to confirm the results later today. Under Botswana’s electoral system, the party securing 31 of 61 parliamentary seats wins the presidency.
The opposition Botswana Congress Party and Botswana Patriotic Front also made significant gains, winning seven and five seats, respectively.
This election outcome marks a new era for Botswana, with the UDC poised to form a government and Boko likely to become the country’s next president.
“I wish to congratulate the opposition on their victory and concede the election,” Mr Masisi said.
