Of alcohol, culture and liberty

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A couple of weeks ago, President Ian Khama congratulated Kgalagadi Breweries Trust for its youth empowerment programmes.

However, unbeknownst to many, the president was planning an onslaught against the lifeblood of the trust and its parent company Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL). Recently, Khama caused a stir by announcing that his government will slap a massive 70 percent tax hike on all alcohol products in the country to control drinking. He promised that if the measure is not effective, he will increase the tax again to achieve his aim.

Any discussion that centres on alcohol ends up being swayed off-line by emotive and subjective thinking with very little rationality. The voices of those who attach emotions and subjectivity to the matter prevail. Alcohol consumers are often seen as incapable of deciding their own fate. This is despite the rich history and culture of the 'elders' brew' as some used to call alcohol.

Editor's Comment
Justice served, but healing must follow

His horrific actions, betraying the trust placed in him to protect children have rightly been met with the full force of the law. Whilst we commend the court’s decision, this case forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about safeguarding our children and the lifelong scars such abuse leaves.Magistrate Kefilwe Resheng’s firm sentencing sends a powerful message that those who harm children will face severe consequences. Her words rightly...

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