Gaborone, Botswana — Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi has officially conceded defeat after nearly six decades of his party’s rule. Preliminary results indicate that the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has lost its long-held parliamentary majority in Wednesday’s election, slipping to fourth place according to the electoral commission’s tallies.

Speaking at a news conference in Gaborone on Friday, Masisi acknowledged the BDP’s poor performance. “We got it wrong big time in the eyes of the people,” he admitted. “We were really convinced of our message. But every indication, by any measure, is that there’s no way that I can pretend that we’re going to form a government.”

Masisi congratulation his opposition party

Masisi congratulations Duma Boka

Masisi, who was vying for a second five-year term, expressed his intention to “step aside,” marking a significant shift in Botswana’s political landscape. “I wish to congratulate the opposition on their victory and concede the election,” he stated, showing respect for the voters’ decision.

This historic outcome brings a new political era for Botswana, as the opposition prepares to lead the nation after decades of BDP governance. Final results are expected soon, but the shift in power appears decisive, ushering in a period of change and potential reform for the country.