
The Botswana People's Party BPP is preparing for a leadership forum this weekend at Tati Siding to strengthen its position within the Umbrella for Democratic Change UDC. The forum, themed "Reviving the BPP, Building Structures and Strengthening the Foundation," aims to enhance the party's influence and relevance following the appointment of four senior BPP representatives to the UDC leadership. BPP secretary-general Mmantlha Sankoloba stated that the forum will bring together the central committee, regional leadership, and key stakeholders to assess, reorganize, and set the party's strategic direction. The BPP intends to consolidate its role as a credible partner within the coalition, focusing on deploying qualified members to the UDC secretariat to ensure effective participation in decision-making and policy coherence. Key objectives include a post-election assessment of the 2024 General Election, strategic coalition positioning, preparedness for the upcoming Tati Siding by-election, approval of a congress roadmap for 2026, and the launch of activities commemorating the BPP's 65th anniversary. The BPP central committee will also finalize internal disciplinary proceedings and a five-year strategic framework for 2026–2031, which will be unveiled at the forum. This renewed focus on strategy and structure indicates the BPP's commitment to remaining a key player within the UDC.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Mmegi.

National security, traditionally associated with military and law enforcement, is evolving to encompass digital threats. These new challenges emerge from smartphones, social media, anonymous online accounts, and artificial intelligence, which can generate convincing text, images, voices, and videos. This shift suggests a need to re-evaluate the concept of national security in light of the changing digital landscape.

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Former Botswana Democratic Party BDP secretary-general Kavis Kario is reportedly being considered by party structures in Maun West as a potential parliamentary candidate for the 2029 General Election. This development comes as the BDP aims to regain constituencies lost in the 2024 polls, with some party members advocating for early campaign preparations. BDP president Mpho Balopi previously suggested holding primary elections two years before the general election to allow candidates more time to establish themselves. Sources indicate Kario has been meeting with local party structures after transferring his membership to Maun West from Ngami. While no official endorsement has been made, influential members are reportedly supporting him. Proponents of this early engagement believe it allows candidates to familiarize themselves with the constituency and build relationships with residents. However, some BDP members express concern that openly lobbying for one candidate years before the primaries could create an uneven playing field and discourage other aspiring contestants, potentially impacting internal democracy. Kario declined to comment on the speculation, calling it an internal party matter.