Botswana: Duma Boko sworn in as new president, marking unprecedented era
Duma Boko officially took office as Botswana’s president on Friday, 10 days after winning a general election and ending six decades of rule by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Speaking to a crowd at Gaborone’s National Stadium, Boko, 54, praised the peaceful transition from his predecessor, Mokgweetsi Masisi, who quickly conceded defeat and promised to smooth the transition.
In the presence of leaders from neighboring countries including Madagascar, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, Boko said: “Today we are launching a new political era, embodying our nation’s will for change.” As some boos were directed at Masisi, Boko called on the crowd to show him respect for his role in the democratic transfer. “Show him some love,” he urged, adding that the former president would remain “in our hearts” for ensuring a peaceful transition.
A historic victory for the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC)
Dressed in the colours of the national flag, Boko waved to the crowd from a vehicle surrounded by white horses, as his supporters cheered. His party, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), won 36 of the 40 seats in parliament in the October 30 elections, a historic defeat for the BDP, which had ruled Botswana since independence in 1966.
“What we want is change,” said Ipotseng Negroes, a 35-year-old farmer, expressing a widely shared desire for a reorientation of the country’s politics. With a high turnout of 80 percent, the youth had a strong influence on the election, making up 34 percent of those registered, according to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) observer mission.
Economic challenges to be met
Botswana, rich in diamonds but facing growing competition from synthetic stones, struggles with high unemployment and a fragile economy. Many voters, like Wabuya Keobonye, an 88-year-old taxi driver, expressed hope for economic and social renewal. Keobonye said the presence of many citizens from all walks of life at the inauguration was a testament to national unity at a time of historic transition.
This election and Duma Boko’s takeover represent a watershed moment for democracy in Botswana, a model in the region.
