25 Feb 2016

The government of Botswana has expressed worry over reports casting doubts over the fairness of the just ended general elections in Uganda. 

A press release from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation says Botswana has observed that based on the findings of some international observers, the elections were characterised by, amongst others, lack of transparency, reported incidents of intimidation and harassment, social media restrictions, as well as continuous arrests and detention of a prominent leader of the opposition. 

According to the release, in view of this, “the government of Botswana remains deeply concerned that such conduct during an election would have deeply undermined the norms of best practice governing democratic elections, as well as, the continent’s efforts towards consolidation of democracy.”

It says going forward, the government of Botswana therefore encourages all concerned parties to address the election disputes for the peace and stability. Ends