The Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA) has lost a court case in which it sought an interim interdict to prevent civil activist Setlhomo Tshwanelang from posting what it referred to as disparaging statements about the agency. The ruling was delivered this morning by Judge Michael Leburu, who dismissed CEDA’s application with costs.
Judge Highlights Transparency and Public Interest
In his judgment, Judge Leburu noted that CEDA failed to sufficiently demonstrate how it would suffer irreparable harm as a result of Tshwanelang’s posts. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, especially for public entities like CEDA, stating, “It is in the public interest to know how CEDA is managed in the era of transparency.”
He further underscored that transparency and accountability are for the common good of the people, highlighting the need for public entities to operate in a manner that withstands public scrutiny.
Activist’s Legal Team Welcomes the Decision
Tshwanelang’s attorney, Bakotelo Mmipi, expressed satisfaction with the judgment, stating that it reaffirmed the principles of transparency and accountability in public governance. He added that the ruling sets a precedent for ensuring that public entities remain open to scrutiny by the citizens they serve.
Implications of the Ruling
The court’s decision is a significant win for activists and advocates of accountability in Botswana. It reinforces the notion that public institutions must be transparent and open to criticism, especially when they handle public resources.
This ruling may also encourage other activists to hold public entities accountable without fear of legal repercussions, fostering a culture of openness and good governance in the country.
CEDA has not yet commented on the ruling. However, the outcome signals a clear message about the importance of public interest and transparency in Botswana’s governance landscape.
