Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members looking to contest Bulela Ditswe later in 2017 have returned to base to count their losses following highly charged campaigns disguised as support for merry-makers in different festivities around the country. While on the face of it many enjoyed well organised choir festivals, football tournaments, Christmas parties and New Year celebrations, oblivious of the sponsors and organisers, a closer look would have revealed that politicians featured prominently in the list. These cultural events provided good cover and opportunity for politicians to sell their story and canvass support ahead of the March vetting process for Bulela Ditswe applicants within Domkrag. But because of the restriction against campaigns before conclusion of vetting, none of the politicians is willing to openly declare interest. It is now game on! Democrats aspiring to contest the 2019 General Elections in opposition held constituencies are 'secretly' intensifying campaigns disguised as community projects, lobbying supporters in clandestine operations two months ahead of the vetting process. As the March/April vetting of candidates for Bulela Ditswe fast approaches, more candidates are emerging from the shadows to stake their claim while 'unauthorised' campaigns in some constituencies date as far back as 2016. Nineteen seats for parliamentary…