Former Botswana President Khama Seeks Court Order to Install Chosen Regent

Former President of Botswana Ian Khama has filed a court application seeking an order to install his preferred regent, Seretse Peter Khama, following a dispute with the current Minister of Local Government and Rural Development. The legal action comes amid reports that Khama, who left Botswana for South Africa in 2021, has now permanently relocated to the Kingdom of Eswatini.

The court case revolves around the appointment of a regent for the Bangwato tribe, of which Khama is the paramount chief. Khama's choice of Seretse Peter Khama as regent has been contested by the government minister, leading to the former president's decision to seek a court order to resolve the matter.

Khama, who served as Botswana's president from 2008 to 2018, has been living outside the country since 2021. His move to South Africa and subsequent reported relocation to Eswatini have drawn attention to his ongoing tensions with the current government led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi.

Why this matters: The legal dispute over the regency appointment highlights the ongoing power dynamics and political tensions in Botswana, even after Khama's presidency. The outcome of the court case could have implications for traditional leadership and governance structures in the country.

The court case filed by former President Khama adds another chapter to the complex political terrain in Botswana. As the legal process unfolds, the nation will be closely watching to see how the dispute over the regency appointment is resolved and what impact it may have on the country's traditional and political institutions.

Key Takeaways

• Former Botswana President Khama files court case to install preferred regent
• Khama has relocated to Eswatini after leaving Botswana in 2021
• Dispute over regency appointment highlights political tensions in Botswana
• Bodies of pilgrims killed in South Africa bus crash being repatriated
• Court case adds to Botswana's complex political landscape, outcome awaited