Mogae’s rare tolerance for media

Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Friday May 15, 2026 10:25

During his two terms in office, Botswana’s media landscape enjoyed significant freedom. Journalists were neither routinely harassed nor detained for doing their work. Surprisingly, during his presidency, though media-friendly, an advertising ban on the media was introduced; however, Botswana Guardian editor Outsa Mokone and his team challenged the ban in court and won.

Despite this development, at a time when many African leaders were tightening their grip on the press, Mogae chose a different path, one that recognised the importance of freedom of expression and democratic engagement. Importantly, Mogae understood that a strong democracy cannot thrive without an independent media. Although he occasionally disagreed with journalists and certain reports, he never used the power of the presidency to intimidate or silence the press. Instead, he accepted criticism as part of democratic governance. This rare political maturity distinguished him from many leaders who often react emotionally whenever the media exposes government shortcomings.

Moreover, Mogae strongly believed in engagement rather than confrontation. He appreciated the role played not only by journalists, but also by Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), particularly during Botswana’s difficult battle against HIV/AIDS. At the height of the epidemic, when the disease was devastating communities and threatening the country’s future, Mogae adopted a proactive leadership approach. He ensured that organisations involved in HIV/AIDS awareness, treatment and advocacy remained active and supported. His administration’s openness to civil society and the media was critical to raising awareness of the pandemic. Instead of viewing criticism as sabotage, Mogae saw public dialogue as necessary in addressing national challenges. Consequently, Botswana emerged as one of the African countries that aggressively confronted the HIV/AIDS crisis through public education, treatment programmes and partnerships with different stakeholders. Equally significant was Mogae’s personal relationship with journalists.

Unlike many leaders who prefer to maintain a cold and distant image, he occasionally interacted with the media in ways that surprised many reporters. One memorable incident highlighted his unusual leadership style and understanding of human relations. At one point during his presidency, Mogae invited members of the press to the State House. Naturally, journalists expected a major press briefing or policy announcement. However, upon arrival, they were instead told to relax, eat and drink. Confused yet curious, the journalists waited patiently, expecting the president to address them formally. When Mogae finally appeared, the atmosphere changed. Rather than delivering a prepared speech or discussing government business, he simply explained that he wanted both sides to be honest with each other about how they viewed one another, away from newspaper headlines and official statements.

Mogae jokingly remarked that journalists would probably not be fully open with him unless they had taken one or two drinks. While light-hearted, the moment reflected his understanding that relationships between politicians and the press should not always be hostile or overly formal. Instead, he believed dialogue and honesty could strengthen understanding between the government and the media. Furthermore, Mogae’s tolerance extended beyond journalists to opposition politics. During Kgotla meetings, where leaders interact directly with citizens, he reportedly preferred hearing comments from opposition supporters rather than from members of his own party.

In his view, opposition voices were more likely to speak honestly and critically, whereas ruling party loyalists could sometimes choose praise over truth. Such an attitude demonstrated confidence in leadership. Rather than surrounding himself with praise singers, Mogae welcomed criticism and alternative opinions. He understood that leadership requires listening even to uncomfortable voices. In many ways, this strengthened Botswana’s democratic culture during his tenure.

Additionally, Mogae’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity was evident in his handling of controversial constitutional clauses, particularly Sections 77, 78, and 79, which were criticised for marginalising minority ethnic groups. Recognising the sensitivity of the matter, he ensured that a national referendum was held to address concerns about those clauses. Although the debate was highly contentious and politically sensitive, Mogae chose consultation and constitutional engagement instead of ignoring minority grievances. This reinforced his broader belief that governance should involve dialogue, participation and inclusion.

Today, as media freedom increasingly comes under pressure in many countries, Mogae’s presidency continues to stand as an important example of democratic tolerance. While no administration is perfect, his leadership style demonstrated that criticism from the media does not necessarily weaken a government. Instead, constructive criticism can strengthen accountability and improve governance. Notably, Mogae never appeared obsessed with controlling narratives or punishing dissenting voices. Even when the press published harsh criticism against him or the government, he resisted the temptation to retaliate through state machinery.

This level of restraint remains uncommon among many political leaders, both past and present. His legacy, therefore, goes beyond economic management and HIV/AIDS intervention. It also includes defending democratic space, respecting freedom of expression and recognising the important watchdog role played by the media.