Botswana's Political Landscape Shifts Dramatically

Botswana's ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has lost its parliamentary majority in the recent elections. As reported by the Mmegi newspaper and state radio, opposition parties, particularly the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), have gained significant ground, winning most of the contested constituencies.

In a seismic shift in Botswana's political sphere, the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has lost its parliamentary majority, according to results reported by the private Mmegi newspaper.

With 36 out of the 61 constituencies reporting, opposition parties have overtaken the long-dominant BDP, winning over half the parliamentary seats. Both Mmegi and state radio confirm that the BDP, led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi, has claimed victory in only one constituency so far.

An opposition coalition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), has emerged as the primary victor, securing 23 constituencies, which puts it on the brink of majority control. In this election, a party needs 31 wins to claim parliamentary dominance.

(With inputs from agencies.)