Botswana’s Low Key Presidential Hand Over Shocks Ugandans

(Gaborone) – Botswana’s recent power handover was like a cool breeze sweeping through a hot Kampala afternoon. Duma Boko, Botswana’s newly sworn-in 6th president, didn’t arrive on the shoulders of throngs of ululating supporters, nor did he take office in a packed stadium. Instead, he took his oath in the modest confines of the High Court, sworn in by the Chief Justice with barely a handful of people present—no stadium, no parade, not even a single drumbeat to mark the moment.

No Buses, No Foreign Dignitaries—Is This Really Africa?

We Ugandans know the script all too well. A presidential handover usually means fleets of buses packed with loyalists from all districts, all converging on a stadium to declare support as if they’re preparing for the World Cup. But in Botswana, there wasn’t even a whisper about foreign dignitaries and VIP guests. Botswana, one of Africa’s wealthiest nations, has opted for simplicity, and, quite honestly, it’s putting many of us on the continent to shame.

Table: Botswana’s Humble Ceremony vs. Ugandan Handover Traditions

Mokgweetsi Masisi’s Unthinkable Move: Conceding Before the Ink Dries

Even more surprising than the low key ceremony was outgoing President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s quick and dignified concession. Without a fuss, he handed over power before the final votes were even counted! Here in Uganda, an election result often signals the beginning of a whole new event—court battles, recounts, and enough drama to keep radio talk shows buzzing for months. Masisi, however, set a different tone altogether, quietly stepping aside after a 58 year rule by his Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) ended.

It’s as if Masisi and Botswana in general are living on a different planet, where leaders concede defeat without kicking up dust, and power transfers smoothly without an ounce of tension. A rare sight indeed for an African country.

Duma Boko: A Man of Few Words, Big Actions

Duma Boko is not your typical loud and triumphant politician. Dressed in his signature dark blue suit, he took the microphone in front of the press and simply promised to do his best. There was no victory parade, no chanting supporters swarming around him. His words carried a calm assurance rather than showboating—a humility that feels almost surreal in today’s African political landscape.

Boko’s campaign was centered on change, a beacon of hope for a country grappling with unemployment and economic challenges. He may have won, but it seems he’s already back to business, focused on addressing the promises that got him elected.

The BDP’s Downfall After 58 Years—A Uganda Comparison

For over half a century, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) held onto power, much like some longstanding governments here in East Africa. But while we’re accustomed to power struggles that can feel like an eternity, Boko’s Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) party swept the elections in a way that caught everyone off guard, even Boko himself.

Uganda can certainly relate to the endurance of a single party, but the idea of a power handover without fiery protests or lengthy legal battles? That’s practically Katogo (a confusing mix) to most of us.

Did Botswana Just Give Africa a New Template?

Botswana’s low drama transition feels almost magical. Are they perhaps bewitched, or is this simply a sign of what can happen when leaders put their nation before their own ambitions? For a continent where political handovers can seem like impossible dreams, Botswana’s quiet, graceful handover may be a breath of fresh air, a reminder of what the future could hold if the will is there.

If nothing else, this understated ceremony might make a few African leaders think twice about how they choose to hand over power.

Table: Duma Boko’s Road to Presidency