🇧🇼BotswanaSouthern Africa
Zimbabwean politics: the debate on presidential term extension and electoral reform
via Mmegi1 min read
Zimbabwean politics is characterized by a tension between the desire for meaningful change and the expectation that this change will occur rapidly and without friction. This impatience, while understandable, is also seen as dangerous, as historical evidence suggests that change is a process that requires time. The current discussions surrounding the extension of the presidential term and the reform of the electoral system are therefore more than just a political contest; they represent a fundamental design question. This question centers on identifying the type of system that can best enable societal transformation, beyond merely changing leadership. Zimbabwe has encountered similar situations in the past, such as in 2013 when the Movement for Democratic Change sought an election delay through the Southern African Development Community, a move that was rooted in considerations of timing and structural issues.
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The Botswana Congress Party BCP is experiencing significant internal divisions as it prepares for its elective conference. Once known for calm internal contests, the main opposition party is now marked by open factional battles and public campaigning by rival teams, raising concerns about unity before the 2029 General Election. The conference will elect new national leadership, with members appearing more divided than in the past. The BCP's tradition of avoiding personal attacks during internal elections has eroded due to open rivalry, with competing camps mobilizing support through organized teams, public meetings, and media engagements. Appeals from senior party leaders for issue-based campaigns have had little impact, as campaign rhetoric has intensified. A key contest is for the vice president position, where incumbent Taolo Lucas is defending his role against Member of Parliament Unity Dow. Dow's supporters, campaigning under the slogan "Re Motia," advocate for fresh leadership to reposition the BCP for the 2029 national polls, believing new faces will attract voters and strengthen electoral prospects.
The three affiliates of the Umbrella for Democratic Change UDC – the Botswana National Front BNF, Alliance for Progressives AP, and Botswana People’s Party BPP – are planning to hold policy forums during the President’s Day holidays. These gatherings aim to align their priorities with the governing coalition and identify areas for reform. The UDC-led government has indicated its intention to review laws and regulations that hinder economic growth and public service delivery. UDC president Duma Boko has previously stated that some outdated laws discourage investment, making Botswana less attractive to investors, and that reviewing these laws is crucial for economic development.
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