Susan NJANJI, Oarabile MOSIKARE –

 President Ian Khama of Botswana this week wrapped up a national “farewell tour” before he stands down today in a power transfer designed to stress his statesmanship and the country’s stability. The country has been ruled by one party – the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) the since independence in 1966. Khama, will today (31st March) step down as his mandated second term comes to an end, handing over a country that has for decades been hailed as an example of sound and progressive economic management and development. He served in the president’s office as a minister of public affairs from 2011 until 2014 when Khama named him minister of education, a post he held until appointed Vice President last year. Khama, a 65-year old bachelor, is known as a straight talker having publicly criticised leaders including US President Donald Trump for an alleged slur against African countries and former Zimbabwe’s president Robert Mugabe as well DRC’s Joseph Kabila for overstaying their welcome. Khama, 65, has cultivated a down-to-earth image — despite his father Seretse Khama serving from 1966 to 1980 as Botswana’s first president after independence from Britain.
Botswanan President Ian Khama steps down and hands power over to Vice President Mokgweetsi Masisi.