Journalists attacked during BDP primary elections in Botswana
30 Jul, 2024
What happened
At least four journalists were attacked on 21 July 2024, and media workers’ equipment was destroyed during the internal elections of the governing Botswana Democratic Party (BDP).
The elections, held in Ramotswa ahead of the country’s elections later this year, were characterised by tensions as election officers and party supporters tried to bar journalists from covering the event.
The election officers and party supporters said this was an internal matter, and the media was not invited. In the melee, a mobile phone that Letlhogile Mpuang of The Botswana Gazette was using to cover the proceedings was damaged.
A female journalist was manhandled as the BDP members tried to grab her phone. Two other journalists were able to repel the political party supporters as they tried to stop them from recording proceedings at the meeting.
The BDP has condemned the attacks on the journalists and said it will investigate the matter.
In a statement, the party said its “electoral process is an open and transparent exercise,” which the media is allowed to cover.
The weekly newspaper, Mmegi, reported that BDP has since replaced Mpuang’s phone.
MISA's position
Political parties should respect the role of journalists in promoting the exercise and enjoyment of fundamental rights by an informed citizenry.
MISA condemns all forms of media freedom violations, including assault, threats and intimidation against journalists conducting their constitutional rights to inform and educate the nation as events unfold.
MISA further calls for the political parties’ leadership to sensitise their structures and supporters on the role of the media in national processes so that the media can continue to perform its duties without exposure to harm.
Journalists have a constitutional mandate to seek, receive, and impart information. It is the duty of every person to respect, protect, and promote these rights.
MISA commends the BDP for apologising for this incident and replacing Mpuang’s phone.
About MISA
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.
Share this
Latest media violations
Those affected:
Number affected:
4
4
Perpetrators:
BDP members
BDP members
Types of actors:
Non-state
Non-state
Location:
Ramotswa, Botswana
Ramotswa, Botswana