President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi has sought for a vote into power for a second term amid economic decline and allegations of rising rate of unemployment in the Southern African country.
Masisi, according to analysts, will face three challengers who are also contesting to oust the nation’s ruling party, Botswana Democratic Party, (BDP) which has ruled the diamond-rich nation for nearly six decades.
Reports indicate that a recent downturn in the diamond market has put a squeeze on revenues in the last few years, and the country has struggled to diversify its economy.
Masisi, speaking at a presidential debate last week, admitted that the nation’s economy has suffered a heavy blow due to the downturn but still maintains its economic potency. “Our diamonds have not been selling since April so yes, our revenues are down but the economic fundamentals still remain intact; we are going to continue with the projects and policies we have come up with that are aimed at putting more money and wealth into the hands of the citizens of this country,” he said.
His main challenger is Duma Boko of the opposition coalition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC).
The other candidates are Dumelang Saleshando of the Botswana Congress Party and Mephato Reatile of the Botswana Patriotic Front, backed by former President Ian Khama who quit the BDP after a feud with Masisi over scrapping the hunting ban and other issues.
Opponents have attacked Masisi’s economic record, citing rising unemployment, which stands at around 28%.