1st November, 2024
Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi has officially conceded defeat on Friday in a historic election, marking a major political shift that brings an end to the Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) 58-year hold on power.
Masisi made the announcement before the final results were confirmed, with partial tallies showing the BDP trailing in fourth place, behind the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) led by opposition leader Duma Boko.
During an early-morning press briefing, Masisi stated he had called Boko to acknowledge his loss, pledging his commitment to a smooth transition.
“I concede the election,” Masisi declared. “While I hoped for a second term, I will respectfully step aside and support a peaceful handover.”
He expressed pride in Botswana’s democratic process and confirmed he would attend Boko’s inauguration to show his support.
The Association Press reports that this momentous election concludes nearly six decades of BDP rule since Botswana’s independence from Britain in 1966.
The nation, home to 2.5 million people and known for its significant diamond industry, will now experience leadership under a new political party for the first time in its democratic history.
