Botswana’s High Court has officially confirmed four candidates for the upcoming presidential election in October, with President Mokgweetsi Masisi seeking a second term in office. The court’s decision follows a mandatory review process where candidates must prove they have the necessary number of supporters.
In addition to Masisi, the confirmed candidates include Duma Boko of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Dumelang Saleshando representing the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), and Mephato Reatile from the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF). Chief Justice Terrence Rannowane confirmed that Biggie Butale of the Botswana Republican Party failed to meet the necessary requirements.
Following the nomination process, Masisi addressed his supporters, expressing confidence in his party’s strength and their chances of victory in the upcoming election. “We are politically stronger, and we will show it at the polls,” he said.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Boko has warned of potential election fraud, recalling allegations from the 2019 elections where his party claimed the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) manipulated the results. Boko stressed that the UDC would only accept a fair and transparent outcome this time.
The BCP, having parted ways with the UDC last year, also voiced optimism. Party spokesperson Mpho Pheko said the BCP is fully prepared for the election, expressing hope that the voters resonate with their message for change.
The president of Botswana is chosen through an indirect parliamentary vote, and recent proposals for direct presidential elections were dismissed after national consultations.