Media Freedom Crucial - France Ambassador
Monday, February 11, 2019
Ambassador of France to Botswana Pierre Voillery
Speaking at the French Embassy residence on Thursday evening, Voillery explained that Botswana was a well-known example of good governance partly because the media could operate freely. He said there is room for improvement like everywhere. He, however, pointed out that the freedom of media in Botswana was remarkable and commendable.
“Politically speaking, I think 2018 was an exciting year with the first press conference addressed by the President of the Republic in 10 years. I assume 2019 will be even more thrilling as the country is heading towards general elections. I sincerely hope the media at large will be part of the campaigns and pass on information to the people come election date. You have an important role to play in assuring the people can be informed and vote in full knowledge,” he said.
It highlights the need to protect rights such as access to clean water, education, healthcare and freedom of expression.President Duma Boko, rightly honours past interventions from securing a dignified burial for Gaoberekwe Pitseng in the CKGR to promoting linguistic inclusion. Yet, they also expose a critical truth, that a nation cannot sustainably protect its people through ad hoc acts of compassion alone.It is time for both government and the...