Khama is known for taking independent positions and speaking out against dictatorial regimes including that of Southern African Development Community (SADC) colleague, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. Speaking in a joint press interview with the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in Gaborone, ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe said, "It's important for continental bodies to work together collectively. For example, when the African Union (AU) takes a decision, it's wise to knit ourselves into multi-lateral continental organisations and respond with one voice."
On the other hand, BDP secretary general Mpho Balopi told the media conference that they had talks on Friday morning on a wide range of issues with a high-powered ANC delegation led by Mantashe. "They appreciated the position taken by our president (Ian Khama), regarding Zimbabwe. They also hailed us for introducing a new culture of speaking out against other leaders and parties in the region and across the world who engage in human rights abuses. ANC said that this has seen others also opening up and not being afraid to hold fellow leaders in the region to account and live to democratic standards and principles, instead of just keeping quiet because they are colleagues of the liberation struggle," Balopi said. Responding to a reporter who wanted to know why it appears as if the ANC is getting friendly with the BDP and deserting its ideological colleague in Botswana, the Botswana National Front (BNF), Mantashe said they relate with the two political organisations on different levels.
