Botswana heads to the polls with diamond downturn in focus

Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) supporters leave the final rally in Tlokweng, east of Gaborone, Botswana October 29, 2024. REUTERS/Thalefang Charles

GABORONE (Reuters) - Botswana votes on Wednesday in an election that will determine whether President Mokgweetsi Masisi secures a second term, with economic woes caused by declining diamond demand in focus.

Masisi's Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has governed the southern African state since 1966 and remains the favourite to win despite decreasing popularity. Voters elect a National Assembly, with the largest party then choosing the president.