15 Oct 2024

The leader of Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) Mr Mephato Reatile has criticised the Botswna Democratic Party (BDP) for accruing national debt by sourcing loans from entities like the World Bank.

Mr Reatile has therefore  urged voters to be wary of the risks associated with increased indebtedness, which could lead to the loss of national assets.

Addressing members of BPF at the launch of  Francistown West constituency parliamentary candidate, Mr Mfundisi Hendricks, along with council candidates, on Sunday, Mr Reatile said the country’s economic challenges called for urgent attention.

He said diamond revenues were in the past properly managed at the Reserve Bank while tax collections were used responsibly. 

For his part Mr Hendricks, upon accepting his candidacy for the Francistown West constituency, pledged to collaborate closely with the council candidates to secure victory in the upcoming elections.

He reminded attendees of the past 58 years under BDP rule, stating that they should remember their roots and the hardships endured during this time.

Mr Hendricks noted that unemployment, poverty, and crime had escalated.

He recalled the introduction of the Tirelo Sechaba programme in 2008, aimed at providing opportunities for youth, and criticised the BDP for their failure to enhance such services since then. He assured voters that the BPF would address unemployment effectively if elected.

“The special constables programme has remained stagnant since. If voted to power, I pledge to revitalise and improve the  initiative,” Mr. Hendricks declared.

Additionally, he highlighted issues within the education sector, pointing out the lack of employment opportunities for qualified teachers.

He promised that under BPF governance, teachers would be absorbed into the education system, ensuring better support for students.

Mr Hendricks emphasised the skilled workforce in Francistown, including capable bricklayers and plumbers, who have not been acknowledged by the Francistown City Council due to the absence of a proper database.

He proposed that with a comprehensive database and an adequate budget allocated to the Mayor, the council could create numerous job opportunities.

 He said the BPF was rallying for change as elections approach, emphasising a vision of improving living standards and economic stability for all citizens.ENDS