Botswana elections 'broadly credible'

The Commonwealth Expert Team flagged gaps in the country's electoral system and voter education

- Oarabile Mosikare

The Commonwealth Expert Team (CET) has commended the peaceful conduct in Botswana's 2024 general elections and the professionalism of electoral staff, but raised serious concerns over voter education, transparency, gender representation and the preparedness of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

The 30 October elections were marked by heightened political contestation against a backdrop of socioeconomic challenges, including rising unemployment and climate-related pressures.

In its assessment, the CET said the elections were broadly credible, with voters, polling staff, and citizen observers demonstrating an exemplary commitment, despite logistical challenges such as long queues and harsh weather.

It commended Botswana for maintaining a peaceful and transparent electoral process, making special mention of former president Mokgweetsi Masisi for conceding prior to the announcement of final results and to the then opposition leader and now President Duma Boko for his dignified acceptance during the handover of office.

The CET identified systemic gaps that, if addressed, could significantly improve public confidence and electoral integrity.

A central concern was the state of voter education and registration, with the CET observing a delay in voter registration and noting that the IEC had failed to meet its initial registration targets.