Published: Dec 19, 2017
By: BOPA

Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Mr Thapelo Olopeng (Botswana)

Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development, Mr Thapelo Olopeng has rebuked some residents of Tonota for recently taking the law into their hands and damaging property.

His remarks follow the recent incident where some residents went on the rampage by damaging property, accusing someone for ritual killing, following the death of his herdboy. Following the incidents, some residents were arrested pending investigations.

Mr Olopeng, who is also Member of Parliament for Tonota constituency, rebuked the culprits during a kgotla meeting on December 18.

He pleaded with the residents to reflect on who they are, where they come from and where they are going, saying such an introspection would help them rebuild their good reputation.

He advised the residents to allow law enforcement officers to do their job without interruption. He further emphasised that the residents should share information with relevant authorities in order to help resolve cases rather than taking the law into their hands.

“Allow law enforcement officials to handle cases. Let them find evidence that will prove someone’s guilt before attacking fellow residents and accusing them of ritual killings with no evidence to show,” he added.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Kgosi Bokamoso Radipitse requested the residents to prepare for the President’s farewell tour by coming up with ideas on how they would bid the him farewell.

President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama is expected to be in Tonota on the February 2, 2018.

Source: Olopeng condemns mob justice
Botswana Daily News, Dec 19 Tue,2017