To: All Members and Delegates of the Botswana Patriotic Front Congress
Subject: Dissolution of the BPF Congress Held in Serowe Due to Procedural, Constitutional, and Security Irregularities.
Dear Patriots and Delegates,
I write to you in my capacity as President of the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) regarding the ongoing National Congress held in Serowe at the Serowe College of Education on the 1st of November 2025.
While it was our shared expectation that this Congress would embody the unity, discipline, and constitutional order of our Party, it is deeply regrettable that the event was marred by serious procedural, constitutional, and security-related irregularities as well as physical altercations.
The Chairman of the BPF failed to allow the President to formally open the Congress following the Welcome Address by the Kgosikgolo of the Bangwato, Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, as required by the Party Constitution and established procedure. Furthermore, although the agenda was announced, it was not formally adopted by delegates before the commencement of business — a key procedural step that validates all subsequent proceedings.
Despite this, certain individuals demanded that the National Executive Committee (NEC) should not present its reports, and that the Congress proceed directly to elections. This was a direct violation of the BPF Constitution, particularly Clauses 13.1, 13.3, 13.6, and 15.4.8, which govern the composition, authority, and responsibilities of the National Congress, and require that all NEC reports be presented and circulated to delegates at least twenty-one (21) days before the Congress.
Under Clause 20.6.4 of the BPF Constitution, “in cases of emergency, the President may take action in the interest of the Party.” It is regrettable to note that the President was not given the opportunity to dissolve the current NEC committee before the appointment of the incoming committee.
Failure to Officially Open the Congress nullifies any ad hoc decisions and actions taken by the delegates gathered therein.
Summary of Irregularities Observed
1. The President was denied the opportunity to formally open the Congress following the Welcome Address by the Kgosikgolo of the Bangwato, Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama.
2. The agenda, though announced, was not formally adopted by delegates before the start of proceedings.
3. The Chairman allowed the Congress to proceed without adopting the agenda or clarifying procedural order.
4. The NEC reports were not presented or circulated to delegates, in violation of Clause 15.4.8.
5. The Congress proceeded directly to elections, contrary to Clauses 13.1, 13.3, and 13.6.
6. The atmosphere became tense and unsafe, with raised tempers and failure to resolve disputes peacefully.
7. The safety and security of delegates and the Serowe College of Education were at serious risk.
Therefore, acting in terms of clause 20.6.4, I hereby declare the Congress held in Serowe on 1st November 2025 dissolved, due to procedural malpractice, constitutional violations, and escalating security risks. Further, I dissolve the National Executive Committee for failure to prepare, arrange and manage the Congress.
This decision was necessitated by the raised temperatures among delegates, divisive exchanges, and failure to peacefully resolve disputes, which posed a serious threat to the safety and security of members and the host institution, the Serowe College of Education. In the best interest of the Party, its members, and the safety of all present, and to safeguard the image and integrity of the Botswana Patriotic Front, it became necessary to act decisively to prevent potential violence, damage, or reputational harm.
This decision is made to preserve unity, order, and respect for the Constitution of the Botswana Patriotic Front.
I shall then appoint interim committees that will take care of the management of the party, draft the rules and regulations, draft proposed amendments to the Constitution and call for a National Congress in six months.
Let us remain calm, united, and steadfast in upholding the principles of integrity, accountability, and patriotism.
Yours faithfully,
Signed
Mephato Reatile
President, Botswana1st November 2025 Patriotic Front
Leadership List (Footer on Page 1):
President – Mephato Reatile
Vice President – Dr. Keorapetse Thokon Muzila
Chairman – Baratwa Mathoothe
Secretary General – Lawrence Ookeditse
Treasurer – Lazarus Lekgoanyana
Contact Details:
Plot 13004, Ledumadume, Mogoditshane
Postal: Box 2759 Gaborone
Contacts: +267 76443742 / +267 77164312
Website: www.bpf-party.co.bw
