While we may come from various ethnic groupings we have been united as a nation. That is why we are called Botswana. From independence our pioneering political leaders differed on the direction that they believed the country should take. However, they learnt to unite in their common goal of having a solid united, peaceful country. They appreciated their political differences, but were careful not to allow the differences to stall development. This is what Botsalo Ntuane tried to tell us earlier in the year. Today we are reading about how Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Botsalo Ntuane's wedding brought people believed to be enemies under one tent. The BCP leader Dumelang Saleshando exchanged greetings with President Ian Khama, as did Gomolemo Motswaledi of the BMD. While the BNF's Duma Boko arrived a little late, when the President had already left, we have no doubt that the two men would have civilly exchanged greetings. This is the essence of democracy. In a truly democratic spirit critics know that difference is not enmity. They appreciate that we have a myriad of differences, but can surmount those to peacefully co-exist. This is what we saw at Ntuane's wedding. No arrogance. No bossy attitude. Just simple humanity that craves the warm and reassurance of the other. It is that spirit that says "Re bana ba motho".
It is in modesty that we are able to go forward as a nation. Pride though, will prevent us from seeing the good in the other person simply because he is of a different political affiliation. Pride they say comes before a fall. It is a universal truth that has witnessed the fall of proud governments and personalities. More importantly humility is a nation-building virtue. Humility to know when we erred, when we were unfair to others and to accept correction.
