We believe this standoff is fuelled by some misguided elements in the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) who want to sow confusion and deflect attention from the real issue. Kaboeamodimo is clutching at straws when he says he is seeking clarity on a matter that is clear to everyone. The state broadcasting stations he manages - Btv and Radio Botswana - aired what is purely a partisan political speech on national facilities when the managers knew very well that this a party address. The claim by the broadcasting services management that they were told by President Ian Khama that the address was of national importance does not wash.
As professionals we believe the journalists at Mass Media Complex will always use their good judgment to decide what is partisan and what is in the national interest. It is not a difficult exercise. At other times, the fellows at Mass Media Complex quote professional obligation when it suits them. When they want to ingratiate themselves to their political masters, they unashamedly state that they are answerable to the president. Unless the management of state broadcasters wants to show contempt to the NBB they have a duty to abide by the decision of the board.
