the monitor

Apology not enough: Prosecute the persecutors

The humiliating court-ordered apology to be splashed across the world’s biggest newspapers and TV screens this week is more than just an embarrassment for Botswana.

It’s a stark, global advertisement of a shocking abuse of state power that must be answered for, not swept away with mere words.

Ambassador Bridgette Motsepe’s victory in forcing the government to publicly retract vile, fabricated allegations linking her to money-laundering and terrorism financing is a step towards justice. But let’s be clear: the government’s admission that investigator Jako Hubona’s sworn affidavit was entirely false and reckless isn’t the end. It’s the bare minimum start. To trumpet a "commitment to the rule of law" whilst those who weaponised the state against innocent citizens remain unpunished, is hollow indeed.

Editor's Comment
Justice delayed is trust denied

Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...

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