14 Oct 2024

Leader of Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Advocate Duma Boko, officially launched Dr Micus Chimbombi as the party’s parliamentary candidate for Kgalagadi South, along with 20 council candidates, during a rally in Tsabong on Saturday.

The launch was part of the party’s preparations for the upcoming general elections scheduled for October 30.

Adv Boko urged the electorate to unite and take proactive measures by casting their votes for UDC candidates.

He criticised the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) for perpetuating economic inequality and injustice, asserting that voting for the UDC was a means to challenge these issues.

“The UDC is founded on principles of political freedom and civil liberties, making our ideologies distinct from those of the ruling party,” said Adv. Boko.

He emphasised that the UDC offered constructive alternatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of citizens, contrasting sharply with the BDP’s record of wealth and power disparity benefiting the political elite.

Highlighting societal inequalities, Adv. Boko stated, “You possess the right to live with dignity.

The current life circumstances you face are the result of decisions made by those in power.”

He reiterated the party’s commitment to uplift the aged, proposing to increase old age pensions to P1 800 to acknowledge the role of the elderly in nurturing future generations.

Appealing to constituents, Adv. Boko promised that if elected, the UDC would focus on transforming various sectors, including the economy, education, and infrastructure.

 He proposed raising the minimum wage to P4 000 for permanent and pensionable employees, addressing the financial struggles faced by many households.

Under the UDC’s manifesto, beneficiaries of the Ipelegeng programme would see payments increased from P600 to P2,500, tackling the rising cost of living.

“As an advocate by profession, I am committed to addressing the urgent needs of our people,” Adv. Boko declared, encouraging voters to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process on polling day.

The Kgalagadi South constituency campaign manager for the UDC, Mr Mock Ntau, expressed confidence in the party’s chances, stating that they had implemented a solid strategy and were prepared to win all seats in the area.

Mr Ntau described the constituency as challenging, with a vast polling district of 570 kilometers requiring dedicated leadership to effectively implement programmes.

Dr Chimbombi, in acceptance of his candidacy, pledged to deliver on the UDC manifesto alongside his councillors. Ends