Poaching and the hunting ban: Oil and water
Thursday, May 24, 2018
Former president, Ian Khama is adamant that his 2014 ban on professional hunting in Botswana was a masterstroke in the nick of time. Today, his critics point out that the decision was taken without consultation and has led to a population explosion, especially in destructive species such as elephants.
Still Khama is unmoved, telling Mmegi a fortnight ago that his intervention was a stitch in time.
When claims of such gravity are made, especially by a sitting Assistant Minister they cannot be brushed aside, delayed, or treated as routine political noise. Even the Ombudsman has confirmed receipt of a report from a political party and a review of these complaints is now underway. That is a necessary first step. But it is only the beginning. The seriousness of the allegations demands urgency, transparency and clarity. The public is entitled to...