Taolo Lucas, the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) vice presidential candidate, has reportedly won the support of at least six Members of Parliament in his campaign for the party’s second-highest office.
Sources close to the Lucas campaign told WeekendPost that, although none of the MPs have publicly announced their backing, these internal endorsements have notably strengthened Lucas’s position in what is expected to be a closely contested race against Unity Dow, Member of Parliament for Kgatleng West.
According to those familiar with the party’s internal lobbying, the MPs supporting Lucas include Kenny Kapinga of Okavango West, Phillimon Aaron of Ngami, Gabatsholwe Disho of Okavango East, Simasiku Mapulanga of Chobe, Thabologo Furniture of Tati East, and Kgoberego Nkawana of Selebi-Phikwe East.
The Lucas campaign is now expanding its outreach, targeting influential but undecided party figures who could influence the balance of power. Among those being courted are Opposition Chief Whip Carter Hikuama, who is running independently for party chairman, and Reuben Kaizer of Selebi-Phikwe West, a candidate for treasurer general. Neither has publicly declared allegiance to either Lucas or Dow.
Campaign insiders suggest that securing the support of these senior figures would further solidify Lucas’s standing ahead of the elective congress, especially among delegates who often follow endorsements from influential leaders.
BCP president Dumelang Saleshando, who also serves as Leader of the Opposition, is widely expected to remain neutral in the vice presidential contest. Party officials say his decision to stay out of the race aims to preserve unity within the party.
The vice presidential race has become one of the most closely watched contests ahead of the congress, with Lucas and Dow representing contrasting leadership styles and visions for the party’s future.
On the other side, Unity Dow’s campaign remains highly competitive and well-organized. The former judge has secured strong backing from key party figures, including Tswapong South MP and former BCP vice president Dr. Kesitegile Gobotswang, who acts as her campaign manager.
Mr. Gobotswang’s involvement is considered a significant asset to Dow’s camp, given his longstanding influence within party structures and experience in internal party strategy. His endorsement could be pivotal in shaping delegate sentiment, particularly in regions where he maintains strong organizational influence.
Dow’s support base has also been bolstered by Nkange MP Motlhaleemang Moalosi, who has publicly endorsed her candidacy.
When approached for comment on the reported endorsements, Lucas declined to discuss internal campaign dynamics or claims of MP support. Instead, he stressed the importance of party unity during the elective process.
“I will not dwell on matters that risk further dividing the party,” Lucas said. “This election must be approached as a democratic internal process, and our focus should remain on strengthening the BCP.”
Meanwhile, Dow’s camp says its campaign is gaining strong momentum nationwide. Campaign Manager Gobotswang reported that preparations are progressing smoothly, with growing support from regional party structures. Endorsements have continued to come in from across the country, including the Nkange constituency. He described the campaign’s reception as encouraging and said momentum was building steadily on the ground.
Another campaign figure, Greg Kelebonye, who is running for publicity secretary, said delegates are responding positively to Dow’s leadership profile, experience, and vision for the party.
He added that the campaign remains confident of victory, citing what he described as increasing enthusiasm among delegates. Mr. Kelebonye also claimed that some prominent individuals from rival camps are beginning to align with Dow’s team.