the monitor

Justice delayed is trust denied

At last, government has broken silence on the death of 13-year-old Retshephile 'Tshepi' Setso Tshedu. The Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa’s recent address although long overdue, was welcome.

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 investigation as proof that every detail was examined because a child’s dignity must be preserved.

Those words carry weight. Yet words alone will not console a grieving family. They will not quell the anger of a community that feels the system failed a Standard 7 pupil. And words will be worthless if this tragedy does not mark a turning point.

Editor's Comment
Don't let FMD outbreak drag on

Acting Agriculture Minister, Edwin Dikoloti, is right in saying opening an export-ready facility whilst Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) is still spreading would risk getting the whole country blacklisted before a single carcass leaves the door.A ban like that would break the already stressed nation. So, the postponement, painful as it is, is the right thing to do. The local economy is being squeezed from both ends. FMD has already slammed the door...

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