Barely a year into his tenure as chairman of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Karabo Gare finds himself at the center of growing internal turmoil within the party. His leadership, which began with high hopes to restore the party’s prominence, is now being tested by deepening factional divides that threaten to unravel the BDP’s fragile unity.
Once the dominant political force in Botswana for decades, the BDP is still grappling with the severe consequences of its crushing defeat in the 2024 general elections. In that election, the party managed to secure only four parliamentary seats, a historic low that sent shockwaves through its ranks and left many questioning its future direction.
Recent reports have revealed that Gare, who also represents the Moshupa–Manyana constituency as a Member of Parliament, has been holding private consultations with close allies and confidants. These discussions reportedly revolve around the possibility of stepping down from his position as party chairman. While the exact reasons behind his contemplation remain unclear, insiders within the party suggest that Gare has become increasingly marginalized by some senior figures. These influential members are believed to be orchestrating efforts to push him out, not only from the chairmanship but also from contesting as a candidate in the upcoming 2029 general elections. This internal power struggle highlights the intense jockeying for control among factions vying to redefine the party’s leadership and strategy in the aftermath of its electoral setback.
The unrest is not confined to the party’s central leadership alone. There are growing signs of dissent within Gare’s own constituency, where certain local party members have reportedly begun mobilizing against him ahead of the primary elections. This development paints a picture of a leader whose support base is under siege from multiple directions, adding to the complex challenges he faces in maintaining his political standing.
In an exclusive interview with WeekendPost, Gare firmly dismissed any rumors suggesting that his position as party chairman was under immediate threat. “I am still the party chairman and focused on rebuilding the BDP into a stronger force,” he stated with conviction. While acknowledging the existence of internal challenges, he chose not to delve into specifics. “I am not at liberty to publicly disclose the challenges we are facing, but I am confident they will be resolved, allowing the party to reclaim its former glory,” he added. His tone conveyed a mix of determination and resilience, emphasizing that he would not be swayed by speculation or distractions. “People can speculate as much as they want, I will not be distracted by anything or anyone,” he asserted, signaling his intent to remain steadfast despite the pressures.
Looking ahead, Gare underscored the critical importance of preparing the party for the 2029 general elections. He expressed strong confidence in the BDP’s ability to stage a comeback, highlighting what he perceives as the current ruling coalition’s weaknesses. “It is highly possible for the BDP to bounce back. The ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change is lost and fumbling,” he remarked, drawing a sharp contrast between his party’s potential and the governing coalition’s perceived disarray.
Gare did not shy away from criticizing the UDC’s performance since taking power, arguing that it has failed to meet the expectations of Botswana’s voters. “The people must return the BDP to power in 2029,” he urged, framing the upcoming election as a pivotal moment for the party to regain its influence and deliver on its promises to the electorate.
Karabo Gare’s rise to the chairmanship of the BDP came during the party’s elective congress held in May of the previous year in Maun. In a competitive race, he secured 385 votes, surpassing his closest rivals Dorcas Makgato, who garnered 272 votes, and Kefentse Mzwinila, who received 70 votes. He took over the leadership from former Vice President Slumber Tsogwane, stepping into a role fraught with expectations and challenges amid the party’s ongoing crisis.
During the 2024 general election, Gare managed to retain his parliamentary seat in Moshupa–Manyana, securing 13,422 votes. He defeated Moses Loeto of the UDC, who received 6,557 votes, and Pako Monageng of the Botswana Congress Party, who garnered 2,578 votes. This victory underscored his personal political strength even as the broader party struggled at the polls.
As the BDP navigates a turbulent period marked by internal strife and external challenges, Gare’s leadership will be critical in shaping its path forward. His ability to unify the party and present a credible alternative to the current government will likely determine whether the BDP can reclaim its status as a leading force in Botswana’s political landscape.