Zambian political and governance analyst Farai Ruvanyathi has challenged former Botswana President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama to substantiate his description of President Hakainde Hichilema as “Africa’s newest dictator,” arguing that the accusation demands specific evidence and a reasoned argument.
This follows questions posed by the former Botswana President to a government minister concerning the attendance of Botswana’s current President at President Hichilema’s inauguration ceremony, in which he asked, “Do you regret attending the inauguration ceremony of Africa’s latest dictator in Zambia?”
In an opinion article, Mr Ruvanyathi argues that while Mr Khama is entitled to question Zambia’s governance, his remarks raise concerns about consistency, diplomatic engagement and the moral authority he invokes in criticising another country’s leadership.
Mr Ruvanyathi points to Mr Khama’s previous refusal to meet Mr Hichilema when he was Zambia’s opposition leader, despite later travelling to State House in Lusaka to meet him during the administration of former Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi.
He further cites concerns documented during Mr Khama’s own presidency regarding the concentration of executive power, pressure on journalists and restrictions affecting the San/Basarwa communities, arguing that such a record complicates any attempt to position himself as an unquestionable defender of democracy.
Mr Ruvanyathi warns that inflammatory statements risk undermining the longstanding relationship between Zambia and Botswana, stressing that diplomatic engagement provides an opportunity to raise legitimate governance concerns, while name-calling risks closing avenues for constructive dialogue.
He has since urged Mr Khama to substantiate his accusations against President Hichilema, exercise consistency and humility, and approach regional affairs with greater responsibility and respect for diplomatic relations.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
