As polling stations open in Botswana, President Mokgweetsi Masisi campaigns for re-election, with citizens weighing the future of leadership amidst pressing national concerns.
Botswana’s national election has commenced with the opening of polling stations, where voters will decide if the ruling Botswana Democratic Party can extend its 58-year tenure.
President Mokgweetsi Masisi, who is 63 years old, is seeking a second and final term in office.
His primary competitor is Duma Boko from the Umbrella for Democratic Change party.
Dumelang Saleshando from the Botswana Congress Party and Mephato Reatile of the Botswana Patriotic Front are also vying for the presidency.
Despite frequently being touted as one of the most stable democracies in Africa, the country faces economic difficulties. This has led the BDP to acknowledge that policy adjustments are necessary.
The primary reason for the country’s economic challenges is a decline in demand for diamonds, which are crucial to Botswana’s economy.
Another challenge facing the country is unemployment, which currently stands at 27%.
