President Hichilema in Botswana for Landmark Inauguration

President Hakainde Hichilema is today in Gaborone, Botswana, to attend the landmark inauguration of incoming President Duma Boko. The inauguration will see the first transfer of power from one party to another since Botswana became independent in 1966.

Prior to last week’s election the governing Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) had ruled the country for a total of 58 years. Yet it only won four parliamentary seats out of a total of 57. The BDP failed to even come second, with the Botswana Congress Party taking 15 seats and forming the official opposition.

Following confirmation of Boko’s victory at the polls President Hichilema stated:

“Congratulations to Mr Duma Gideon Boko on your remarkable victory in Botswana’s presidential elections.

We extend our heartfelt Congratulations to the Batswana for your commitment towards fair and peaceful elections.

We commend outgoing President Masisi for graciously conceding and further consolidating democracy in the region and the continent as a whole, while ensuring a smooth transfer of power. His actions have further strengthened the democratic fabric of Botswana.

This victory is not just a win for the UDC Party, but a win for democracy itself and most importantly the people’s will.

We look forward to the continued implementation of our bilateral cooperation agreements with the new leadership.”

Photo credit: President Hichilema Facebook page.