Activist Setlhomo Raymond Tshwanelang, known for his outspoken criticism of alleged corruption at the Citizen Entrepreneurial Development Agency (CEDA), has once again captured public attention. This follows his statement about an upcoming march to the Office of the President on December 10th, aimed at highlighting corruption allegations within the agency.
Tshwanelang recently addressed Goroma Maipelo Mazonde’s comments suggesting that President Duma Boko’s administration views him as a nuisance. The remarks, made in response to a social media post criticizing the President’s perceived silence on corruption issues, claimed that the administration had aligned itself with individuals implicated in corruption, rendering them unable to act decisively. Her comment read;
The President is definitely not on your side, Stizzy. I have wondered how he could remain eerily silent on this matter when he had such a hard stance on corruption and tackling it. This would have been the opportune time for him to reaffirm his commitment to fighting corruption boldly. I believe this new administration actually finds you to be a nuisance. They simply don’t know how to silence you. You see, the new administration has slipped into bed with old administrations; the SAME people these corruption matters implicate. So, how could they call any investigation and pursue accountability? Why would someone align themselves with the same person they ultimately will end up having to investigate? Your heart may be in the right place but alas, you are going to discover that the only change we have witnessed is the change in colour of the ruling party, not much else…
In a candid and measured response, Tshwanelang emphasized that the President’s allegiance should not be to him but to the truth and the principles of justice. He stated:
“The President should not be on my side or the side of anyone but the side of the truth or seek the truth. Even the Minister should be too. I don’t need the President, or you or anyone to be on my side. Heck no. But the side of the truth. In his SONA, Kgotla meetings, and acceptance speech, he made it clear that people should speak freely and protest freely and that he is there to serve all. Not to serve Setlhomo. Ka bokhutshwane, he isn’t there for me but for all.”
This response underscores Tshwanelang’s commitment to advocating for transparency and accountability, principles he believes transcend individual interests.
CEDA’s Legal Loss Bolsters Activist’s Stand
Tshwanelang’s remarks come shortly after his victory in a high-profile legal battle against CEDA. The agency had sought an interim interdict to prevent him from posting what it deemed disparaging statements about its operations. The application was dismissed by Judge Michael Leburu, who ruled in favor of public interest and transparency.
Judge Leburu’s judgment emphasized that public institutions like CEDA must be open to scrutiny, stating:
“It is in the public interest to know how CEDA is managed in the era of transparency.”
The ruling is seen as a significant victory for activists and a milestone in fostering accountability within Botswana’s public institutions.
Tshwanelang’s planned march to the Office of the President reflects his resolve to continue pushing for accountability. His activism has sparked widespread debate about governance and transparency in Botswana, with many citizens rallying behind his cause.
The recent court ruling also sets a precedent, potentially emboldening other activists to challenge corruption and advocate for good governance without fear of retaliation.
