Botswana’s political landscape has changed dramatically during his long rule Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) was eliminated by the opposition, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), in a historic vote. BDP, which has held power since that of the country independence in 1966secured only four seats in parliament, while the UDC emerged with an overall majority of 35 seats. This result marks the first time the BDP has lost control in the diamond-rich southern African nation and represents a milestone for Botswana’s democracy.

In a phone call to UDC leader, Duma Bokothe president of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi, graciously conceded defeat and congratulated his opponent. Masisi acknowledged the BDP’s shortcomings, citing slow economic growth and high unemployment as key factors that have dented his party’s popularity. “I got it wrong, that’s fine,” he admitted at a news conference. Despite overseeing economic policies aimed at supporting the country’s development, Masisi said the BDP has failed to connect with voters.

Masisi expressed pride in Botswana’s democratic values, assuring citizens that he would ensure a smooth transition to the UDC-led government. He urged his supporters to remain calm, rally behind the new administration and respect the result. “I will respectfully step down and participate in a smooth transition process,” Masisi said, describing his willingness to uphold democratic principles as central to his role. “I am proud of our democratic processes and I respect the will of the people.”

During his phone conversation with Boko, Masisi pledged to remain available for guidance, signaling a openness to collaboration despite the result. Boko, a 54-year-old former human rights lawyer, addressed the media for the first time since the election results, calling the transition “a watershed moment” for Botswana’s democracy.

“What happened today takes our democracy to a higher level. We have now seen a successful, peaceful and orderly democratic transition,” Boko said. In a moment of humility, he noted his surprise at the margin of victory and his determination to fulfill his UDC promises to the people. This marked his third attempt to secure the presidency.

Celebrations erupted across the country, particularly in the capital Gaborone, as UDC supporters took to the streets to commemorate historic victory. Mpho Mogorosi, a 23-year-old student, expressed her excitement at the transition, telling Reuters: “I never thought I would witness this change in my life. BDP has stayed in power for too long and I am proud to be part of the people who removed them for a better Botswana.”

The UDC platform focused on economic reforms aimed at tackling youth unemployment and improving wealth distribution. Although Botswana has vast diamond resources and a thriving tourism sectormany young people remain unemployed, a problem that fueled the rise of the UDC. New MP Kgoberego Nkawana echoed the urgency of economic reforms, telling the BBC’s Newsday program that current prosperity has not reached all citizens. He noted that the UDC plans to prioritize a new economic strategy, pledging to create more well-paid jobs and promote equitable distribution of resources.

Botswana’s political change has attracted international attention as the country has long been considered one of them Africa’s most stable democracies. Observers hailed the election as a model of peaceful democratic transition in the region, underscoring the significance of the will of the people that prevailed over a decades-long mandate.

As the UDC prepares to take over, Boko and his party face the task of delivering on their promises to an electorate eager for change. The party has pledged to implement reforms that aim to balance economic development with social equity, addressing the challenges of unemployment and income disparity that were central to the election. With a clear mandate and a parliamentary majority, the UDC holds the reins of Botswana’s future, signaling the beginning of a new era in the political history of the country.