Revisiting the principle of botho

When Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) president Duma Gideon Boko spoke ferociously and harshly against injustice during a presidential debate, many commentators regarded him disrespectful.

At one point when speaking as a political opponent, the late Gomolemo Motswaledi pointedly argued that it is difficult for him to speak freely against Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi because he is afraid of being labelled  disrespectful to an elder. He further said, “Botho bo siame mme fa gongwe bo diela nako”(though respect/courtesy is a good thing, it is sometimes a waste of time).

In Botswana, there is a common old adage that  says “Susu ilela suswana gore suswana e go ilele” (elders must respect the young so that the young respect them back).

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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