Difference is the essence of democracy :: Mmegi Online

In a democratic society, respect for individuals and their right to make their own choices is a key element. Tolerance of differences and opposing ideas, equity valuing all people and allowing for free expression of one’s opinion as long as it does not harm anyone is equally important for attaining a democratic society.

In the absence of all these, including the enjoyment of one’s human rights, then that cannot be described as a democratic environment. For a long time, Botswana has been a beacon of good democratic society. Tolerance of differences and opposing ideas was the order of life.

However, that seems to have changed lately. There is a growing tendency by government to rebut every newspaper article on government or President Mokgweetsi Masisi. Through the new arrangement, the Acting Permanent Secretary Government Communications, John-Thomas Dipowe’s duty has been reduced to just penning rebuttals.

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