Botswana vote count underway in high-stakes race for president, parliament

By James Kunda

LUSAKA, Zambia (AA) – Vote counting is underway in Botswana as the southern African nation elects a new president, parliament members, and local councilors.

The Oct. 30 general elections proceeded without major incidents.

This election will form the country’s 13th Parliament, with 61 seats in the National Assembly and 609 local council seats up for grabs, using a first-past-the-post voting system.

The presidential race includes incumbent Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi, 63, who is seeking re-election under the ruling Botswana Democratic Party.

Other candidates include Duma Boko from the Umbrella for Democratic Change, Dumelang Saleshando of the Botswana Congress Party, and Mephato Reatile of the Botswana Patriotic Front.