The ruling BDP party lost power after nearly 6 decades

Voters in Botswana have rejected the country’s long-standing ruling party, marking a political earthquake in the diamond-rich southern African nation.

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) – in power since independence in 1966 – had won just one seat in parliament as of early Friday morning. It looks set to be replaced by the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).

President Mokgweetsi Masisi accepted defeat, saying it was clear his BDP party had lost “massively”.

Despite seeing significant change in Botswana, recent poor economic growth and high unemployment rates have dented the BDP’s credibility.

“I will respectfully step aside and participate in a smooth transition ahead of the inauguration,” Masisi said during a news conference Friday.

He urged his supporters to remain calm and rally behind the new government.

The UDC, led by human rights lawyer Duma Boko, won 25 seats, according to initial figures.

The party is expected to cross the 31-seat threshold for a majority in parliament.

The Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), supported by former President Ian Khama who split from the BDP, has won five seats while the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) has so far won seven seats.

As parliamentarians elect a president in Botswana, Boko is on track to become the next head of state after parliament meets for the first time.

UDC supporters celebrated in the capital Gaborone and other parts of the country.

Masisi – in office since 2018 – led the BDP’s failed campaign.

The president pushed the message that his party could bring about “change,” but not enough voters believed the BDP could do what was needed for the country.

Official results are expected to be announced by the election commission next Friday.