07 May 2025

President Advocate Duma Boko has called on the media to adhere to the principles of journalism and prioritise truthful communication. Speaking at the opening of the 51^st Botswana Police Senior Officers Annual Conference in Gaborone on Tuesday, President Boko expressed concern over some media platforms that had deviated from their code of conduct by disseminating misleading reports about police activities.

“It’s unfortunate to observe that certain media outlets are quick to publicise inaccurate information,” said President Boko. 

He cautioned that the sharing of sensitive information could inflict harm on individuals, mislead the public, and potentially incite violence.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive relationship between the police and the community, President Boko stressed that reckless reporting could tarnish the police’s image. 

“Under the law, as outlined in the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act, everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” he said. 

He urged the public to practice patience and allow for thorough police investigations before drawing conclusions.

The President further advised anyone with credible information to assist in investigations to share it with the police rather than spreading rumors or misinformed reports. 

“Facts and the law distinguish between right and wrong. Unfortunately, some media outlets present opinions as facts,” President Boko said.

To counteract misinformation, he encouraged media platforms, the public, and analysts to engage more in factual reporting. 

He noted that lack of knowledge could lead the public to disseminate inaccurate information, believing it to be true.

“As police officers with years of experience, they possess the expertise necessary to combat crime effectively,” he explained. President Boko encouraged better community engagement to share accurate information regarding legal applications and crime prevention.

He proposed the introduction of a 30-minute engagement platform where he could address media concerns directly. 

This, he said might  foster open dialogue and provide clarity on pertinent issues.

“Speculation often arises from a lack of information,” he noted. President Boko commended the police for healthy relationship with the media, emphasising their commitment to responding to misleading information professionally and without criticism. ENDS