Botswana's Opposition Wins Historic Election, Ending 58-Year Rule
The Umbrella for Democratic Change, led by Duma Boko, secures a parliamentary majority, unseating the long-dominant Botswana Democratic Party.
- The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) conceded defeat after losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since the country's independence in 1966.
- Duma Boko, a Harvard-educated human rights lawyer, is poised to become the new president as the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) gains control of the parliament.
- Economic challenges, including a slump in global diamond demand and high unemployment rates, were key factors in the BDP's electoral defeat.
- Outgoing President Mokgweetsi Masisi acknowledged the loss and promised a smooth transition of power, marking a rare peaceful transfer of leadership in the region.
- The UDC has pledged ambitious reforms, including job creation and economic diversification, as it prepares to address Botswana's pressing socio-economic issues.
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