Let's differ but in defference
Friday, March 12, 2010
"You can criticise the government, you have free speech, free elections," said another. Botswana is indeed an incredible country. Home to not only the most beautiful wildlife we've seen yet, including elephants, giraffes, impala, kudu, and warthogs, but also to the friendliest people. It is one of the most vibrant political democracies we've seen so far, a nation proud of its peace and stability".
The upbeat and affirmative foreword, prologue and overture captioned above is a true reflection of the selflessness of Batswana as reflected in their principle of 'botho'. It is also for 'botho' that Botswana is widely regarded as an exceptional African Success Story. As evidenced by economic and governance indicators, Botswana ranks amongst the highest in Africa in regard to political stability, control of corruption, government effectiveness, voice and accountability, regulatory quality, or rule of law (for example Commonwealth Business Council, 2009; World Bank Institute (WBI); Bertelsmann Foundation, 2008).
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...