12 May 2026

While he embodied decorum through humble and measured language in public statements, dignity reflecting the stature of his role, professionalism and composure during difficult times, Dr Festus Mogae, was witty with a charismatic personality contrasting the supreme prestige of his office.

Below are a few insights highlighting his lighter side:

• “I was not willing to lose elections on behalf of gays. However, they were not arrested, they were not arrested during my tenure,” bold response during a BBC panel discussion on homosexuality, stating why he did not reform laws criminalising same sex relationships while he was in office.

• “When I advised my fellow African counterparts to hold regular elections and peacefully hand over power after their constitutional term ends they always respond, “Mogae, you have been bribed by Mo Ibrahim to come and tell us to leave office. I am speaking about President Traore of Mali, America’s good friend, President Museveni and of course my good neighbour, President Mugabe.” Dr Mogae speaking at a committee meeting at Wildrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars, USA.

• “I am busy, very busy, maybe too busy. I am enjoying it because it is too busy. As you know I am chairperson of the AIDS Council, remain engaged in various local and international charitable institutions and I am Patron of the Botswana Society for the Deaf, running centres in Gaborone and Francistown. I am also looking after 170 cattle, 120 small stock, 10 horses and some donkeys that I was given as part of my retirement gifts.” Dr Mogae responding to an interview to reflect on his retirement plan and demystifying the assumption that he now has the luxury of time at his disposal.

• “In my country, if you criticise your successor, people think you want to rule from the grave. The current leadership has lost direction and was leaning more and more towards dictatorship. Khama’s government has become intolerant of debate, criticism and hostile to any dissenting voices.” Dr Mogae speaking at a Leadership Forum in Tanzania, 2014, stating his views on the leadership style of his then successor, President Lt Gen Seretse Khama Ian Khama’s administration regarding the rule of law.

• “This is not a meeting about Zimbabwe. We are here to sell Botswana. I will however, be prepared next time in case it is necessary.” Dr Mogae speaking to deflective Japanese journalists at a Tokyo investor campaign aimed at attracting investment to Botswana. The journalists attempted to capitalise on the platform to discuss the then economic conditions of Zimbabwe but he stood his ground and controlled the engagement.

“I don't understand it [homosexuality]. I am a heterosexual. I look at women. I don't look at other men. But there are men who look at other men. They are also citizens." Dr Mogae expressing his personal lack of understanding of LGBTQI issues while still advocating for their protection on HIV/AIDS related matters. - BBC Network Africa interview, 2011.

• “I will sack them if they can’t work together to advance the cause of the country.” Dr Mogae reprimanding two senior consulate officials who had conflicting views about the appointment of a liaison officer who was to spearhead an international diamond Campaign. A simple message made to restore discipline and dignity. What followed thereafter, was a quiet, reflexive retreat and order was restored. ENDS