GABORONE (Reuters) – Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi conceded defeat on Friday after preliminary results indicated that his party had lost its parliamentary majority in this week’s election, ending nearly six decades in power.
The private Mmegi newspaper and state radio reported that the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) had suffered a landslide defeat, citing results from over half the constituencies. The opposition coalition, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), was leading, positioning its leader, lawyer Duma Boko, on track to win the presidency. Boko has not yet made a public statement.
“Although I wanted to stay on as your president, I respect the will of the people and I congratulate the president-elect. I will step aside and support the new administration,” Masisi said at a press conference.
Analysts had predicted a competitive election, although the BDP was still widely expected to prevail. It has ruled the southern African country of 2.3 million people since its independence from Britain in 1966.
Mmegi reported that based on results from 36 of the 61 constituencies up for grabs, opposition parties had won more than half the seats in parliament, which elects the president. State radio confirmed the same tally, noting that out of the 36 constituencies, the BDP had only won one, while the UDC had won 25.
A party needs to win 31 constituencies to secure a majority in this election.
Botswana has enjoyed stability and relative prosperity due to its diamond wealth and small population, which receives free healthcare and education.
It is the world’s top producer by value of the gem. However, a downturn in the diamond market has squeezed revenues in recent years, and the country has struggled to diversify its economy.
