Jump to navigation

Vol 40 No 21

Published 22nd October 1999


Botswana

All his own work

After a false start President Festus Mogae has passed his first electoral test

President Festus Mogae has gained the clear mandate he sought to govern in his own right. The ruling Botswana Democratic Party won its eighth successive victory at the general elections of 17 October, giving him the mandate he has sought since he took over from Sir Quett Ketumile Masire in April 1998. The BDP took 33 of the 40 directly elected seats in the National Assembly, a gain of five on the 1994 elections. With four presidential nominees as well, the BDP will enjoy a majority of 30 - overwhelming in a 44-seat Assembly. Mogae, who was due to be formally re-elected head of state by his party on 20 October, seems set for a five-year term without too many challenges from his rivals in the cabinet.

End of preview - This article contains approximately 1185 words.

End of preview

Subscribers: Log in now to read the complete article.

Account Holders: Log in now and use your Account Credit to buy this article. No Credit? Top up your Account now.


If you are logged in, but still cannot access the full text of this article, email customer services or telephone us on +44(0)1638 743633.