UNHCR breaks silence on Eritrean refugees

Eritrean refugees at Kutlwano Police Station recently
Eritrean refugees at Kutlwano Police Station recently

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) regional representation for Southern Africa has moved swiftly to allay looming fears and tensions in Botswana over the Eritrean footballers and other refugees’ cases that have become the talk of the country.

This was after Mmegi made an effort to hear the UNHCR side of the story on the contentious issue of refugees in Botswana, particularly the Eritrean players’ case. In a response to Mmegi UNHCR said they are not aware of any intentions by Botswana to expel or kick out the 10 Eritrean football players who were recently granted refugee status in Botswana.

Asked on the ‘resettlement’ letter sent to them by the government, UNHCR senior regional external relations officer, Tina Ghelli responded: “We are not at liberty to discuss and share contents of internal correspondence.” Botswana recently wrote a letter to UNHCR in what was interpreted as an advancement of resettlement of the 10 Eritrean players.

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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