GABORONE, Botswana — The voting commenced on Wednesday for a crucial election in Botswana, which will determine whether one of Africa’s longest-serving political parties remains in power for another five years.

For 58 years, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) has led the country since it gained independence from British colonial rule in 1966. This one-day electoral event will shape the composition of Parliament, which in turn will elect the new president.

Currently, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, a 63-year-old former high school teacher and UN worker, is campaigning for a second and final term in office.

Often viewed as a beacon of stability and democratic success in Africa, Botswana has maintained one of the highest standards of living in the region. However, it is now grappling with economic difficulties that have compelled the BDP to recognize the need for policy reform.

The economy is largely dependent on diamond exports, which have suffered due to a global decline in demand. As a consequence, unemployment has surged to 27% this year, with youth unemployment significantly higher among the country’s 2.5 million residents.

In response to citizen concerns, the BDP asserts that it is receptive to ideas for policy adjustments aimed at diversifying the economy, which is heavily reliant on diamonds, accounting for more than 80% of exports and a quarter of the GDP, as indicated by the World Bank.

Three candidates are vying for the presidency against Masisi: Duma Boko from the leading opposition party, the Umbrella for Democratic Change; Dumelang Saleshando representing the Botswana Congress Party; and Mephato Reatile from the Botswana Patriotic Front.

As soon as the polls close on Wednesday evening, counting will begin, and the results are expected to be disclosed within a few days.