27 Oct 2024

The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) officially launched its presidential campaign on Saturday, unveiling Advocate Duma Boko as its presidential candidate and Mr Ndaba Gaolathe as his deputy.

The launch event was held in Gaborone on Saturday and marked the UDC’s commitment to challenge the incumbent Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in the upcoming national elections scheduled for October 30.

Mr Gaolathe was also endorsed as Gaborone Bonnington South candidate.

Party chairperson Mr Motlatsi Molapisi expressed confidence in the UDC’s potential to lead the country out of a ‘mirage of challenges’ he attributed to the BDP’s poor governance.

He stated, ‘the UDC is solely focused on ousting the BDP as it has placed the country into a mirage of challenges, which could only be resolved by a committed and focused UDC government.”

Mr Molapisi highlighted the importance of safeguarding the electoral process, cautioning against potential election malpractices such as cheating and rigging that had plagued elections across Africa.

He urged all citizens to actively protect their votes amidst the nation’s declining economic conditions, emphasising that the UDC would prioritise tackling unemployment and reviving the economy if it took power.

For his part, Advocate Boko, promised a government that would prioritise societal interests and address the pressing issues faced by citizens.

“Winning the 2024 elections will mark the start of a new journey that requires dedicated and success-driven individuals,” he stated.

He underscored the need for strong leadership with integrity to combat maladministration and ensure equitable distribution of resources and wealth.

The presidential candidate criticised the current BDP-led government for perpetuating poverty and economic challenges, pledging to enhance workers’ rights and provide necessary incentives to military personnel.

Advocate Boko proposed a minimum wage of P4 000, aimed at improving the livelihoods of workers, particularly those in programs such as Ipelegeng.

He further outlined ambitious plans for educational reform, promising resources for schools, nutritional provisions, and the establishment of a new ministry for child welfare and basic education. He emphasised the government’s obligation to provide essential support from birth, including monthly allowances for children.

Mr Gaolathe echoed these sentiments, emphasising the UDC’s focus on changing the government, bolstering the economy, and enhancing citizens’ livelihoods.

He emphasised the importance of vocational education in diversifying the economy and lamented the poor state of educational facilities and public servant welfare.

Highlighting Botswana’s potential to harness its natural resources, Gaolathe proposed the creation of a solar power generating plant capable of producing 10 000 mega watts annually. He expressed optimism about the UDC’s potential to lead the country toward a brighter future under the leadership of Advocate Boko. Ends