The presidential succession has always been a subject of intense intrigue and strategic maneuvering within the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP).
Among the tribal groups in Botswana, Barolong stand out for their repeated opportunities to ascend to the State House, but opportunities that have consistently slipped through their fingers.
No tribal group (outside of Bangwato) has had more shots at Botswana’s presidency than the Barolong, and each time, they have rejected that opportunity. The Barolong have turned down opportunities for their kinsmen Kitso Mokaila and Erick Molale under then-president Ian Khama, and more recently Peggy Serame under President Masisi. All three had been earmarked, at least by popular opinion, to be in line for the vice presidency and eventual automatic succession.
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