COPPERBELT CSOs CHALLENGE KHAMA OVER HH DICTATOR CLAIM
By: Augustine Kapambwe
The Copperbelt Consortium of Civil Society Organisations (CCCSOs) has challenged former Botswana President Ian Khama to withdraw his description of President Hakainde Hichilema as “Africa’s newest dictator” and apologise to Zambians.
Consortium Coordinator Vincent Lengwe said Mr Khama’s remarks were factually incorrect and undiplomatic, arguing that Zambia had recorded democratic gains since President Hichilema took office in August 2021.
Mr Lengwe cited the abolition of the death penalty, repeal of the defamation of the President law, restoration of fundamental freedoms and expansion of civic space as evidence of the country’s democratic progress.
He also defended Botswana’s attendance at President Hichilema’s 2021 inauguration, noting that the election was declared free and credible by regional and international observers, with Mr Hichilema securing 59.02 percent of the vote.
Mr Lengwe further urged Mr Khama to address his concerns through established diplomatic channels rather than social media, citing SADC and African Union frameworks governing former Heads of State.
He also questioned the former President’s criticism of Zambia’s governance, pointing to concerns raised during his own tenure over press freedom and civic space in Botswana.
The statement was issued on behalf of eight affiliated civil society organisations.