08 Nov 2017

Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has welcomed North West District Council chairperson, Mr Duncan Enga, Maun Administration Authority (MAA) deputy chairperson, Mr Vepaune Moreti and former deputy youth league activist, Mr Benson Diletsa under the Botswana Congress Party (BCP).

Speaking at a press conference in Maun on November 4, the UDC deputy leader, Mr Dumelang Saleshando said the three men, who were from the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) were leaders who were bringing some followers with them.

Mr Saleshando said as the UDC they wanted to attract men and women of integrity who were rich in politics and political structures.

Quizzed on whether the new members would contest in the coming general elections, Mr Saleshando said the new members as politicians of repute had a right to contest wherever they preferred like any other veteran member.

He however said the new members were not promised any constituency, but would compete with other party members in primary elections.

Mr Saleshando also expressed that the campaign to 2019 general elections had started earlier, compared to the past years, which he said was commendable.

He said Maun people were also ready for the race and shown interest in their opposition parties.

Mr Saleshando said UDC was still relevant as it had won some areas in bye elections including those which belonged to the ruling party around the country.

UDC leader, Mr Duma Boko said the UDC had gained immensely when roping the BCP, which had about 20 per cent of national vote and had a formidable leader.

Mr Boko therefore said the UDC was not sinking and said the new members unveiled proved the growth of the UDC.

He said the new members were brave as they had taken a step to pursue a course to end destitution in the country.

Mr Boko further said the UDC would create about 100 000 jobs 12 months after winning elections in 2019.

Mr Moreti said he had consulted with his constituents who had embraced his decision to transfer to the Botswana Congress party.

Mr Moreti said a good leader was the one who understood the challenges faced by his people.

Mr Enga said he was a ‘BDP member 100 per cent and therefore had become a UDC member 100 per cent’.

He also described himself as a tried and tested politician. ENDS