Following Huntington’s (1991) notion of the ‘third wave’ of democratisation, it is
observed that there has been a resurgence of liberal democratic ideals. This has meant
the opening up of the political sphere to ensure regular free and fair elections; the
enjoyment of civil liberties in the form of freedom of association, assembly, and
expression; the upholding of the rule of law and the absence of human rights abuses;
and the existence of independent bodies within civil society to hold government
accountable. Moreover, since the 1990s, elections have become the primary method of
regime change in most of Africa and there has been a movement away from one party
to multi-party governments and towards the consolidation and deepening of
democracy. The latter entails, among other things, popular participation, political
openness, free choice, equal competition, transparency and accountability in
government.
Without question, Botswana is widely acclaimed as a front-runner in democratic
politics in southern Africa, with every passing election exemplifying the embodiment of
democratic ideals and good governance. Since the independence elections of 1965,
Botswana has held nine successive elections, in an open, free and fair atmosphere but
a close inspection does, however, reveal serious limitations. For instance, through no
fault of theirs the ruling BDP has been in power since the independence election 40
years ago. It should be appreciated that democracy is an ever-evolving process that is
under continual construction and reconstruction and must always be improved, partly
through reforming the electoral system.