Botswana: Journalist Manhandled by Political Party Supporters; WPF Demands Respect for Press Covering Political Events

Violence unfolded when journalists were covering the internal party polls of ruling party Women Press Freedom is alarmed by the violent attack on journalists, including a woman journalist, during the internal elections of the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in Ramotswa. The aggression against at least four journalists, including damage to their equipment, is a blatant violation of press freedom, especially critical as the country prepares for general elections later this year. While we acknowledge the BDF's condemnation of the violence and their investigation into the issue, we demand that both the BDF and the police back their words with decisive action. Authorities in Botswana must take swift action against the perpetrators, thoroughly investigate the matter, and punish those responsible for these press violations. Violence erupted on July 21, 2024, as journalists covered the internal party polls of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) in Ramotswa, ahead of Botswana’s general elections scheduled for later this year. Tensions escalated when election officers and BDP supporters attempted to prevent journalists from covering the vote count. As chaotic scenes unfolded, at least four journalists were attacked. Among the victims was an unnamed woman journalist who was manhandled by party members trying to seize her phone. Several journalists also reported damage to their equipment during the incident. Despite Botswana's reputation as Africa's longest-standing democracy, media freedom in the country faces ongoing threats. In May 2024, President Mokgweetsi Masisi acknowledged the growing challenges facing the media in Botswana during World Press Freedom Day, stressing the need to combat misinformation and disinformation in the region. Earlier this year, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reported that at least two journalists were doxed by politicians who published their personal information online. Women Press Freedom documented a concerning case in August 2021 involving Michelle Teise, a correspondent for Moeladilotlhoko News Boiler. Teise and four colleagues were arrested on January 28, 2021, in Gaborone, while investigating the disappearance of Obakeng Badubi. The team was charged with criminal trespassing but was released on February 7 after spending over a week in custody. Women Press Freedom calls on the authorities in Botswana and the BDP leadership to take immediate action to protect journalists and their right to report without fear of retribution. Concrete measures are urgently needed to ensure that the press can operate freely and safely while covering upcoming elections. The safety of journalists must be a priority, as their ability to perform their duties without interference and violence is essential for the preservation of democracy.