04 Apr 2024

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has urged Heads of Missions to facilitate Batswana in the diaspora to vote in this years general elections.

Speaking at a State Banquet held in honour of Botswana envoys and foreign envoys accredited to Botswana in Gaborone on Wednesday, President Masisi emphasised the importance of voting saying all should exercise their democratic right.

He urged envoys to ensure they were ready to facilitate this process when the time comes.

With the upcoming general elections scheduled for October, President Masisi highlighted the need for the country to reflect on its achievements, challenges, and flagship programmes.

He reassured envoys that the elections would be conducted transparently, peacefully, and fairly, in line with regional and international guidelines such as the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.

“Without a doubt, this democratic dispensation and characteristic has become part of our culture,” he said. President Masisi appealed to and urged Batswana, including those in the diaspora to also take part in advancing the country's aspirations and goals.

“I am pleased to observe that Botswana enjoys strong and cordial diplomatic relations at the regional and international levels, which are mutually beneficial. I have approved the establishment of diplomatic relations on a non-resident basis with 34 countries in the last five years,” he said.

He commended Botswana’s strong diplomatic relations on regional and international platforms, emphasising the country’s increased influence globally since 2018.

The President said Botswana’s successes in leadership roles within various organisations such as Chair of the Group of Landlocked Developing Countries, Champion of Sustainable Urbanisation in the SADC Region and Chair of Sustainable Development in SADC by UN-Habitat, was attributed  to  the country’s reputable position in leadership and governance indexes.          

He highlighted Botswana’s engagement with the international community, leading to significant employment opportunities for Batswana in regional and international organisations.

President Masisi’s address illustrated the country’s commitment to inclusive governance, international cooperation, and diplomatic engagement aimed at advancing Botswana’s interests on the global stage. ENDS