When ex-presidents throw spanners into statecraft works :: Mmegi Online

The spectre of former presidents meddling in the political affairs of the State has become a tangible and increasingly problematic issue for their successors and governments. Currently, three SADC governments – Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia – face this problem, though with varying levels of statecraft disruptions. Mmegi Corresponent KETO SEGWAI looks at the albatross hanging around the necks of the sitting Presidents

In Botswana, the political disconnection with former President Ian Khama began at the advent of President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s tenure on April 1, 2018. The problem has since metamorphosed into a crisis, with Masisi’s administration disproportionately expending vast energy and resources in that fight.

Equally, some of Khama’s borderline ‘criminal and treasonous activities’ have increased, such as his recent campaigning for a trophy hunting ban law in the UK or his alleged attempt to disrupt State-to-State interaction between Botswana and Estonia. These activities are injurious to Botswana’s interests.

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