Botswana’s president-elect Duma Boko, a Harvard-educated human rights lawyer, has won a historic victory, ending nearly six decades of rule by the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). Boko, 54, secured a strong mandate with his Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition, which won more than half the seats in Wednesday’s election, allowing him to form a government.
The victory is a significant milestone in Botswana’s political landscape, marking the first shift in power since independence.
Duma Boko has long been an opposition leader, renowned for advocating human rights and pushing for government accountability. He thanked supporters in a post-election statement, pledging to work for “the very best” for Botswana’s citizens.
Born in 1969, Boko entered politics through the Botswana National Front and later formed the UDC coalition to unify opposition efforts. Known for his ambitious drive, he has become a popular figure among the youth, championing change and economic reform. Observers say he faces major challenges, particularly addressing economic inequality and revitalising the diamond-reliant economy.
With the BDP conceding defeat, Boko’s term will begin with high public expectations for change.