An increasingly ugly spat between President Mokgweetsi Masisi and his predecessor Ian Khama is rocking the steady Botswana boat.According to the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), what was once a budding friendship has now become ugly, nasty and more importantly, concerning.The conf lict began when Khama publicly criticised Masisi's policies and leadership style, which have been characterised by the reversal of a multitude of decisions and appointments made during Khama's presidency. Masisi, once a dutiful cabinet minister to Khama, retaliated with accusations that Khama had left nothing but a legacy of corruption and mismanagement during his term in office. The dispute is not only dividing the nation, but is also raising regional and continental concerns about political stability in the country, which has been considered one of the most secure in Africa for more than a half century. Several organisations have called on both leaders to resolve their differences peacefully and uphold Botswana's democratic values. The African Union, in particular, has urged the two leaders to engage in dialogue and find a peaceful resolution to the conf lict.The ISS warns that the consequences of the escalating feud are uncertain, particularly in light of the upcoming national elections next year. Khama's decision to quit the ruling Botswana Democratic Par t y (BDP), which was founded by his father, has further fuelled the growing animosity between the two leaders, raising concerns about the potential damage to Botswana's democracy and the wider region.Khama, now a key member of the opposition Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), has publicly stated that he intends to right what he deems the wrongs inf licted by Masisi since he took office, including ending BDP rule in Botswana.Khama has been living in South Africa since 2021 due to fears of persecution in Botswana. An arrest warrant remains in force against Khama who is facing charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and receiving stolen property. In January, he attempted to have the arrest warrant struck down, but failed when the high court in Gaborone found that he did not meet the requirements for the warrant to be set aside or delayed.
