Duma Boko Sworn In As Botswana’s Sixth President Amid Celebrations And Calls For Change

Duma Boko took the oath of office as Botswana’s sixth president today in a historic ceremony at Gaborone’s national stadium, marking a new chapter in the nation’s political landscape.

Boko, leader of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), won a decisive victory over the long-ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), ending its nearly 60-year reign.

Dignitaries from across southern Africa, including leaders from Madagascar, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, gathered alongside former Botswana presidents Festus Mogae, Ian Khama, and Mokgweetsi Masisi to witness the transition of power.

During his address, Boko, 54, pledged to serve with integrity, stating, “I will maintain the Constitution of Botswana and uphold the laws, and…serve the people without fear or favor.”

In his inaugural speech, Boko reflected on the significance of the moment, urging citizens to embrace the nation’s fresh start. “This is your story,” he declared. “Together, we usher in a new political dawn.”

Botswana’s recent election saw an 80% voter turnout, with youth constituting over a third of the electorate.

The UDC’s progressive agenda resonated particularly among young voters and those seeking change amid rising unemployment and economic challenges.

The UDC’s landslide win, securing 36 parliamentary seats, signals a shift in the nation’s political landscape and a new era for Botswana’s democracy.

Conducting LG POLLS without 6-month notice will face nullification – AGF

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi, SAN, Thursday, warned that henceforth, local government elections conducted without 6 months’ notice would face nullification.

According to the AGF, the government is committed to enthroning sanity at the third tier of governance.

Any state Governor who fails to give six months’ notice before conducting local government elections will face nullification in courts,” he quoted as saying.

The AGF stated this recently, at the 12th convocation of Afe Babalola University in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti state.

Lately, state governors across the country are reportedly engaging in late minute rushes to conduct local elections without recourse to the law setting up election matters just to meet up with the alleged three-month moratorium

While some states gave up to four months’ notice before the council polls, a good number of governors gave between three weeks and one month

Obi Condoles With The Govt Of Imo State Over Multiple Tragic Events In The State

My heart goes out to the government and people of Imo State over the wave of tragic events that occurred in the State recently.

First was a reported improvised explosive device (IED) explosion at Orlu International Market, which claimed precious lives and injured many others.

The State was still reeling from the shock of the explosion when a fatal accident occurred around Njaba area of the State, claiming no fewer than 20 casualties .

I am sincerely saddened by these tragic occurrences which has left families in grief. I strongly urge the State government to deeply investigate and ensure that the circumstances surrounding the explosion is unraveled, to prevent future recurrence.

I sincerely condole with all the affected families, the State government and people of Imo over these painful incidents.

May God give them, and all of us, the fortitude to bear the losses and the strength to support one another in these challenging times.

May God grant eternal rest to the dead and grant quick recovery to the injured. -PO