Botswana washes hands off Khama’s views on Hichilema
BOTSWANA has left it’s former leader and fourth president, Seretse Khama hanging dry over strong sentiments against President Hakainde Hichilema, clarifying that the remarks are not the country’s official position but simply his personal opinion.
Recently Khama questioned the Botswana Govenment for attending the Inauguration ceremony of President Hichilema in Lusaka following the general election over three months ago, calling the Zambian head of State “Africa’s newest dictator.”
But Bostwana’s Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale mirroring Pontius Pilate in the bible washed their Government’s hands from Khama’s statement.
“We enjoy excellent diplomatic relations with Zambia, hence we attended the inauguration of [President Hichilema],” Dr Butale said via a phone interview.
Considering, Khama’s previous position, Dr Butale recognised that his remarks may attract considerable public attention and could, in certain quarters, be perceived as reflecting the views of the country.
“Nevertheless, the views expressed by an individual, irrespective of their previous position in public office, should not be taken as representative of the policy or position of the sitting Government,” he said.
Further, Dr Butale also said Botswana is not engaged in any talks with the Zambian government about its electoral outcome.
Meanwhile, The Voice Newspaper of Botswana quoted Dr Butale stating that Khama’s remarks have the potential to put Botswana’s diplomatic credibility at risk.
“We are alive to the fact that this could affect diplomatic confidence, complicate bilateral engagement and potentially undermine Botswana’s international image and credibility,” he told the Newspaper.
According to The Voice newspaper, Dr Butale said international relations are conducted on behalf of the State and its people, and that Botswana’s official positions are determined and communicated through duly mandated government institutions.
“Government is aware of public statements by the former President concerning developments in Zambia. It is, however, important to distinguish his personal opinions from the official position of the Government of Botswana.”
Dr Butale further said Botswana respects the constitutional right of every citizen, including former presidents, to express personal opinions but encouraged responsible public discourse, particularly on matters that may affect the country’s international standing.
“We favour constructive engagement rather than any approach that could be construed as restricting legitimate freedom of expression, and we expect former holders of high public office to appreciate the influence their statements may have on the country’s interests and international relations,” stated Dr Butale.
Chi Kondi November 8, 2026