Zambia's political differences need reconciling - Botswana

...with the Minister of International Relations Dr Phenyo Butale informing the Botswana's Ntlo Ya Dikgosi (House of Chiefs) about the need for Zambia's political leaders to reconcile in the name of promoting democracy in Zambia

By BARNABAS ZULU

BOTSWANA has expressed willingness to assist in resolving political differences in neighbouring countries, particularly in Zambia, potentially opening the way for dialogue between President Hakainde Hichilema and opposition leader Brian Mundubile currently in prison for 64 days along with his deputy Makebi Zulu and 16 others accused of treason.

Botswana's Minister of International Relations Dr Phenyo Butale says his country is committed to promoting democracy and was prepared to assist neighbouring countries experiencing political disagreements through dialogue.

Dr Butale was responding to former Botswana president Ian Seretse Khama, who questioned the country's decision to attend President Hichilema's inauguration, accusing the Zambian leader of being "Africa's newest dictator".

"With the stated position of Botswana as upholding the rule of law, democracy and human rights, with hindsight, does the Minister regret that we attended the inauguration of Africa's newest dictator in Zambia, after they have violated all these principles that we uphold?" Mr Khama asked.

But in response, Dr Butale defended Botswana's decision to attend the inauguration, saying diplomatic engagement was necessary to maintain good neighbourly relations and create opportunities for dialogue.

"Botswana is committed to ensuring, as indicated, that we assist in the promotion of democracy. We are also possible assistants to those who have differences in our neighbours and beyond," he said.

Dr Butale said Botswana could not engage countries effectively if it chose to stay away from important diplomatic engagements such as the inauguration of President Hichilema in Zambia.

"For us to have a window through which we can engage, we cannot do so if we stay away from the people that we are supposed to engage and talk to. So it was necessary, regardless of the position that we hold, and in the interest of promoting good neighbourliness, to attend the inauguration," he said.

He explained that concerns about developments in neighbouring countries could be raised through appropriate structures.

Mr Mundubile, who leads the opposition Tonse Pamodzi Alliance and his running mate Makebi Zulu are currently facing treason charges alongside 16 others.

The opposition has previously called for dialogue with the government, arguing that national reconciliation would be difficult to achieve while opposition figures remained in detention.

However, State House has maintained that Mr Mundubile's detention is a criminal matter and should not be treated as a political obstacle to President Hichilema's broader reconciliation agenda.

The Botswana minister's remarks come amid growing calls for dialogue and reconciliation between the government and opposition following the August 2026 general election.