13 Oct 2025

The main opposition, Botswana Congress Party (BCP) has embarked on a significant initiative to review its constitution.

The review aims to adapt to the evolving political landscape and bolster the party’s relevance in contemporary governance. Speaking to party members in Francistown on Saturday, BCP leader Mr Dumelang Saleshando expressed the need to update the party’s constitution to fortify its democratic principles and streamline governance structures.

Mr Saleshando opined that the existing constitution had somehow become outdated, thus unable to adequately address the needs and aspirations of current and future party members. He said the review was meant to align with the current political landscape and ensure that the party remained relevant.

He added that an outdated constitution could no longer serve the party’s needs and the review therefore presented a unique opportunity to craft a document that would serve the current membership and future generations.

He said the party was tasked with creating a constitution that would not only serve Batswana of today but also catered for the needs of those who were not yet born.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we must handle with care. The review is more than just an update but an opportunity to create a constitution that will serve not only the current generation but also those yet to come,” he said.

That, he said was a pivotal moment for the party and it demanded careful attention. Underlining the importance of social democracy, accountability and inclusivity, Mr Saleshando said the constitutional review should particularly focus on the interests of women, youth and marginalised segments of society, who had long been overlooked within the political framework.

“The review should prioritise the interests of women, youth and marginalised groups, who have historically been side-lined.”

The BCP leader further highlighted the importance of promoting social democracy, accountability and inclusivity within the party. He also warned those he termed ‘political hustlers’ who may attempt to infiltrate the party ahead of the 2029 general elections.

He urged party members to be vigilant and ensure that only those with genuine interests in the party’s success were allowed to participate. Again, he urged party members to remain vigilant and ensure that only individuals with sincere intentions and a commitment to the party’s mission were welcomed into the fold.

The BCP leader also called on party members to collaborate closely with the leadership and foster a united front to fortify the party’s position ahead of the upcoming elections. He was optimistic that with a revamped and inclusive constitution, the BCP can secure victory and deliver effective governance for the people of Botswana.

He said BCP was dedicated to advancing the interests of Batswana and firmly believed in that had uniquely positioned to fulfil that role. He said he was confidence that with a strong and inclusive constitution, the BCP can emerge victorious and provide effective leadership to the people of Botswana. ENDS