FRANCISTOWN- Botswana Democratic Party Treasurer, Mr Satar Dada has told BDP members that a split could not be avoided as his efforts and those of former presidents to broker peace failed.
Mr Dada who was speaking at a rally in Francistown on Saturday said he had failed to find an amicable solution to the conflict between some party members and the president, adding that the president had expressed willingness to find a solution to the problems but the other group decided to go ahead and form a splinter party.
Mr Dada said the main contention by the splinter group is that the president does not listen and that he would not change.
He said the presidents main focus is on development and service delivery, citing programmes such as Ipelegeng, ISPAAD, which he said are doing well.
He said 40 000 people have been employed under the Ipelegeng programme while 95 000 have benefitted from the ISPAAD programme.
Mr Dada urged all BDP members to support the president to enable him to succeed in his drive to develop the country.
Barolong MP, Mr Kitso Mokaila said the large turnout at the rally is an indication that their loyalty to the party is unshakable.
He said being loyal to ones leader is not being a bootlicker as some have been labeling those loyal to the president, adding that being loyal to the president does not mean one cannot advice where necessary and that it does not mean one cannot express a divergent opinion.
What will not be tolerated, he said is indiscipline.
Mr Peter Siele, MP for Ngwaketse South said the BDP would be united and stronger after the dust has settled.
He said the party faced similar challenges when both the second and third president assumed power, adding that Barataphathi would not be forming a splinter party if their claim to love the BDP was true.
The partys Secretary General, Mr Thato Kwerepe urged those remaining in the party to resuscitate party structures and ensure they are functioning.
He also requested branches and regions to forward names of those who intend to leave the party.
BDP veteran and former MP, Mr Kebatlamang Morake expressed concern about some media reports, urging the electorates to examine those who seek votes and support and to ensure they support those whose integrity is not questionable.
H e said unlike some governments in Africa, the BDP government is tolerant and allows opposition parties.
Mr Morake noted that the first president of the country, Sir Seretse Khama said no party can break the BDP except the BDP itself. He said the former president had said the only factor that can break the party is hunger for power.
Botswana Press Agency
