The Leader of Opposition (LOO), also the Vice President of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), and a Member of Parliament for Maun West- Honourable Dumelang Saleshando has earlier today left for Zambia. Saleshando was part of Botswana’s delegation to Zambian President-Elect His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema inauguration.
According to a press release by the UDC, Saleshando was authorized to form part of the delagation for the reasons;
- The change of government in Zambia is unparalleled as it demonstrates that patience is important to remove a governing party steeped in corruption.
- President elect Hakainde Hachilema suffered immensely under the Patriotic Front regime, but commits to non-retribution politics and is a good lesson for all political parties in the region.
- Though President Masisi has basically banned electoral contests here for the duration of the unjustified State of Public Emergency, he has no qualms in attending the inauguration of a leader elected during the pandemic. This proves that there is no justification in delaying the holding of bye elections here.
- We will endorse, encourage and support those who respect the right of voters to choose their leaders. This being the cornerstone of Democracy.
- This occasion gives the UDC the opportunity to network with leaders of other parties in the region that will also grace the occasion.
The delegation which the Leader of Opposition was part of is made up of; His Excellency the President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, His Excellency the former President Dr. Festus Gontebanye Mogae, Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation- Dr. Lemogang Kwape, and LOO Dumelang Saleshando himself.
This follows an invitation extended to Saleshando by the Office of the President. After being briefed about the invitation, the UDC NEC says it authorized their Vice President to honour the invitation. However, the UDC notes how concerned it is about external trips during COVID pandemic when the nation is making huge sacrifices by restricting travel. The UDC have previously issued out press statements calling President Masisi to reduce international trips.
