24/07/2025
Media Statement by the Editors’ Forum
For Immediate Release
The Botswana Editors’ Forum is deeply concerned about troubling developments that unfolded during the Botswana National Front (BNF) Congress held in Palapye recently. Reports indicate that some members of the BNF verbally harassed journalists and used disparaging language against the media. Such conduct is not only regrettable but poses a serious threat to press freedom and the safety of journalists.
This latest incident comes at a time when the President Duma Boko, appears to be steadily departing from long-held democratic values that uphold and protect media freedom. Not long ago, President Boko remarked that “90% of news is fake,” a statement that unfairly discredits the journalism profession and undermines the essential role of the media in a democratic society.
The Botswana Editors’ Forum further notes with concern that President Boko, who has often presented himself as a defender of press freedom, has nonetheless used public platforms on multiple occasions to delegitimise the media.
In a recent example, he dismissed media reports on tensions between Cabinet Ministers and their Permanent Secretaries, only to later confirm the substance of those reports himself during an unsolicited media briefing. This episode illustrates the value of responsible journalism and highlights the need for open, respectful dialogue between the media and political leadership.
While we welcome constructive criticism of the media as part of a healthy democracy, we strongly caution against the use of political power to harass or intimidate the press. A free, independent, and robust media is not a luxury, it is the lifeblood of democracy. Journalists are not enemies of the state; they are facilitators of dialogue, watchdogs of public interest, and essential conduits of information.
We urge President Boko and all political leaders to reflect carefully on the impact of rhetoric that seeks to delegitimise the media. Such statements not only erode public trust in democratic institutions but also place journalists at risk in an already challenging environment. We call for mutual respect, constructive engagement, and a reaffirmation of the values enshrined in our Constitution.
A Call To Journalists To Uphold Professional Standards
While we stand firmly in support of media independence, we equally call on journalists to uphold the highest standards of ethics, accuracy, and fairness in their reporting. Media freedom must be exercised responsibly and with unwavering integrity.
The Botswana Editors Forum calls on all stakeholders, political leaders, public servants, and citizens alike, to respect the media’s vital role in our democracy. We reaffirm our support for all journalists who carry out their work with integrity, courage, and professionalism.
Signed:
Editors’ Forum Executive Committee
Chairperson: Lawrence Seretse
Secretary General: Keikantse Shumba
Deputy Secretary General: Sello Motseta
Treasurer: Maureen Odubeng
Additional Members: Joel Konopo, Kealeboga Dihutso, Rorisang Mogoijwe, Sharon Mathala, Jeannie Olesitse-Mogotsi, Justice Kavahematui
