Botswana on Friday ushered in a new era as Duma Boko was officially sworn in as the country’s president, ending the Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) 58-year dominance of the political landscape. In a dramatic election outcome, Boko’s opposition coalition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), triumphed over the long-ruling BDP in October, a shift that many have called a pivotal moment for the Southern African nation.
During his inauguration at the national stadium in Gaborone, Boko solemnly pledged to uphold Botswana’s Constitution and laws, affirming his commitment to serving the people impartially. “I will direct my abilities to the service and welfare of the people without fear or favour, affection or ill-will. So help me God,” Boko declared.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by numerous African leaders, including Mozambique’s Prime Minister Adriano Maleiane and South Africa’s Vice President Paul Mashatile, reflecting the significance of the event across the continent.
At 54 years old, Boko assumes office after two previous presidential bids in 2014 and 2019. As the leader of the Botswana National Front (BNF), he played a pivotal role in founding the UDC in 2012, uniting various opposition factions to challenge the BDP. The UDC, which now includes the BNF, the Botswana Movement for Democracy, and the Botswana People’s Party, was able to secure a historic victory in this year’s elections.
Boko now faces the critical task of addressing pressing national issues, particularly rising youth unemployment, which has been a growing concern in Botswana.
In addition to Boko’s inauguration, the country’s new vice president, Ndaba Gaolathe, and the newly elected parliament speaker, Dithapelo Keorapetse, took their oaths of office in a ceremony that marked the beginning of a new political chapter for Botswana.
