The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) in Botswana swept to power in the landlocked southern African country on Friday, November 1, 2024, taking 35 of 61 seats in parliament and ousting the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) after 58 years.
The BDP secured just two seats, the electoral commission announced.
It had ruled the former British protectorate – whose economy depends on diamond mining and wildlife tourism – since independence in 1966.
Speaking in Gaborone, President Mokgweetsi Masisi acknowledged defeat, saying the BDP would respect the result.
Observers had expected the BDP to retain power in the vast country with a population of just 2.5 million.
The party holding a majority in parliament appoints the president.
U.S. election: Kamala Harris’ lead over Trump drops to one point
The likelihood is that UDC candidate Duma Boko, a 54-year-old human rights lawyer who studied at the elite United States University Harvard, will be elected to serve as president for the next five years.
Boko had campaigned on a platform of job creation and increasing minimum pay and pensions, dpa reported.
Botswana lacks industrial development and has high unemployment.
After diamond mining, wildlife tourism is the main source of foreign exchange, with the Okavango Marshes and the largest elephant population in Africa major drawcards.
- Naira’ll trade below N1,000/$ before end of 2026 ― Otedola - February 12, 2026
- ‘Only way to create desired society’: Toyin Kehinde urges pastors to prioritise missions - February 12, 2026
- Judge announces withdrawal from EFCC’s case against Malami - February 12, 2026
