05 Dec 2016

Democrats have been implored to introspect and embrace ideals that have made Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) an organisation of great stature since its establishment.

The party chairperson, Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi made the remarks during a political rally held to welcome 69 new members into the BDP fold at Mmatshitswane ward on Saturday (December 3) in Kanye.

Mr Masisi, who is also the Vice President of Botswana, said democrats should draw valuable lessons from the founders of the party to realise exponential growth.

The founders, he said, were hardworking, self-less individuals who placed party interests ahead of their own.

He said unlike the current crop who want to spring up from the bottom rung of the party structural ladder and assume positions of responsibility in the nick of time, the founders of BDP’s primary resolve was to first deny themselves and serve the party to the best of their ability.

The Moshupa/Manyana constituency lawmaker therefore commended in a special way Goo-Logaba cell committee saying they were truly upholding and living up to the principles that founded BDP.

Heroic acts by Goo Logaba cell group which falls under Mmatshitswane ward in Kanye South according to Mr Masisi challenges the entire membership to do something for the party in their various spheres of influence.

Mr Masisi shunned spiteful attacks on one another on social media saying such morally deplorable acts are uncharacteristic of the BDP, which he said embraces peace and tolerance.

Instead of engaging in untoward acts that has the potential to polarize the party, the BDP chairman said democrats should meet from time to time, advice and build each other thereby help grow the party.

Mr Masisi said also that the same tolerance be extended to opposition especially that the BDP has projected itself as an alternative home to disgruntled members from opposition.

Southern District Council chairperson, Mr Alec Seametso agreed with Mr Masisi adding that Goo-Logaba cell committee had just reminded democrats what ought to happen to keep the party alive.

He said although Kanye South should be an easy catch for the ruling party, internal bickering that is usually fueled by fight for positions makes it difficult for the party to wrestle the constituency from the opposition.

For her part, Logaba cell treasurer, Ms Thuso Lebanna said her committee was working round the clock to recruit as many people into the party to make sure BDP wins the constituency in 2019.

She said as committee members, they were saddened by the 2014 small margin with which they lost elections to opposition.

“We are engaged in a rigorous recruitment drive and will make sure we win this time around,” she said.

The BDP Regional chairperson for South West, Mr Kenalemongwe Mopipi called on democrats to walk the talk. He said the secret to victory is unity and leaving out anything that could divide members.

One of the recruits, Mr Lawrence Pitso said contrary to insinuations by media, he was never bought to join BDP.

“I was lured into the party by sound policies and tranquility that prevails in this party,” he said. ENDS