The Registrar of Societies at Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs has confirmed that he has registered a new party called Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), APA can reveal here Thursday.
Reports indicate that BPF becomes the second breakaway party from the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP）in less than 10 years.
The other break away party was the Botswana Movement for Democracy, formed in 2010 by disgruntled BDP members who left the ruling party over differences with former president Ian Khama who led BDP at the time.
In a letter addressed to the founders of the BPF, Assistant Registrar of Societies, Mooketsi Seitlhomola said “amongst the 10 names you submitted for consideration, we are pleased to notify you that the name Botswana Patriotic Front has been chosen for your society.”
The new party is said to have the backing of Khama who is expected to announce his resignation from the BDP on 25 May.
Khama and his successor, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, are currently not on speaking terms following differences over governance issues.
KO/jn/APA