Ayesha Nyanzunda
Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi has conceded defeat after a landslide loss for his party in the country’s general elections this week.
Masisi’s party, Botswana Democratic Party which has been in power since the former Britain colony gained its independence 58 years ago lost in parliamentary majority in more than half the country’s constituencies.
According to preliminary results from the Electoral Commission of Botswana Duma Boko’s Umbrella for Democratic Change(UDC) is leading the polls, on track to win the presidency.
In a televised address this morning, Masisi said he will respectfully step aside and participate in a smooth transition process ahead of inauguration.
“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 I will support the new administration,” said Masisi.
According to preliminary results , the UDC has won 25 out of the 61 parliamentary seats decided by voters and needs 31 to clinch a majority.
The Botswana Congress Party has seven seats, the Botswana Patriotic Front five seats, and the ruling BDP just three.