Botswana risks entering its 2029 general election under the same electoral system long criticized by opposition parties, after government officials indicated that the sweeping reforms pledged during the 2024 campaign could be delayed until a broader constitutional review is completed.
The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), which rose to power on a platform of overhauling the electoral framework, had proposed phasing out the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system, introducing public funding for political parties, and ensuring that ballots are counted at polling stations in accordance with Southern African Development Community (SADC) principles. The party argued that these reforms were essential to strengthen democratic representation, create a level political playing field, and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
However, recent statements by Minister for State Presidency, Defence and Security Moeti Mohwasa suggest that these reforms may not be implemented in the short term.
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