Recent academic research suggests that the former ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) may have contributed to its electoral defeat in 2024 through its handling of constitutional reform efforts. According to political scientists, the BDP’s approach to these reforms sparked significant public discontent.
Academic Insights on Electoral Shift
A paper titled ‘Reforming the Constitution in a Developing Country: How Mismanaging Constitutional Reforms Led to Electoral Loss in Botswana’ explores this perspective. Authored by Professor Zibani Maundeni, Dr. Batlang Seabo, and Dr. Letshwiti Tutwane, the research indicates a direct link between the constitutional reform process and the BDP’s loss of power.
The ‘Catastrophic Failure of Consultation’
The academics identify a “catastrophic failure of consultation” during the administration of former president Mokgweetsi Masisi as a critical factor. This lack of engagement, they argue, alienated a substantial portion of the populace and ultimately undermined the BDP’s electoral standing.
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