1. Introduction
On the 5th of November 2007, President Festus Mogae delivered his last State of the Nation address. As is constitutionally required, President Mogae is expected to step down as President of the Republic of Botswana, having served the maximum 10 years as Head of State. In bidding President Mogae farewell, we as the BCP believe that the Nation should reflect on his 10 years of service in an objective manner. Vacation of office by a President is a momentous occasion in the life of any nation. We need to avoid the risk of an emotional evaluation that normally accompanies the parting of humans and emphasizes jubilation and unmeasured tribute. Shortcomings, particularly where they may have been monumental, should be pointed out for the sake of those who will remain to provide leadership for the coming generations. However, accomplishments must also be acknowledged, as they are the basis for our hope of a better future.
Unlike his predecessors, President Mogae ascended to the top position with the full knowledge of the length of time he would occupy the State House. With a predetermined tenure of office, the expectation is that he would have identified his key priorities and adopted a timetable that would allow him to pursue his agenda with haste. This should be reason good enough to closely interrogate his term in office with greater scrutiny during their term of office.
