The secret hanging of Sepeni Popo

While we do not condone criminal behaviour, including murder, we nevertheless condemn the use of death penalty in Botswana. The secrecy surrounding the date and time of the execution of Popo, is a continuation of the unacceptable practice of the State.

DITSHWANELO again condemns this behaviour which causes unnecessary distress for the relatives of the person being executed. The family members have not been found guilty of any crimes and yet are unjustly punished. In its recent report on The Death Penalty in Botswana - Hasty and secretive Hangings 2007, which was produced earlier this year, DITSHWANELO makes reference to this unacceptable practice of the secrecy of executions.