MP petitions Botswana over Khama’s remarks
MEMBER of Parliament Judith Kabemba has petitioned the Botswana High Commission in Zambia over former President Ian Khama’s reported description of President Hakainde Hichilema as “Africa’s newest dictator”.
Ms Kabemba wants the Botswana government to engage Mr Khama and encourage him to retract the remarks and issue an appropriate clarification to avoid straining relations between the two neighbouring countries.
In a formal complaint addressed to the High Commission, the mixed-member proportional representation lawmaker expressed concern over what she described as disparaging remarks against Mr Hichilema.
“I’m writing to express the people of Zambia’s deep concern and displeasure over recent public remarks attributed to former President of Botswana, Mr Ian Khama, in which he reportedly referred to the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, as ‘Africa’s newest dictator’,” she said.
Ms Kabemba said the remarks are regrettable, particularly coming from a former head of state who understands the importance of diplomacy, mutual respect and the responsibilities associated with public office.
She said disagreements over governance and other national issues should be addressed through established diplomatic and legal channels rather than public statements that can undermine relations between sovereign states.
“Serious allegations should be supported by credible evidence and addressed through the appropriate institutions.”
Ms Kabemba is particulary concerned that the remarks were reportedly made during proceedings of Ntlo ya Dikgosi, Botswana’s House of Chiefs, in Gaborone, while Mr Khama was questioning the Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale, about that country’s decision to attend President Hichilema’s inauguration.
She said the setting gave the matter a wider institutional and diplomatic dimension.
Ms Kabemba also urged the leadership of Ntlo ya Dikgosi to consider the implications of such remarks being made during its proceedings and communicate its concerns to relevant authorities.
She asked the Botswana High Commission to formally forward her complaint to the Ministry of International Relations and the leadership of Ntlo ya Dikgosi.