The death penalty is here to stay-BDP

The death penalty will continue to be imposed on those found guilty of murder under the current government, Defence Justice and Security Minister Shaw Kgathi has said.

Kgathi who is also the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) Deputy Secretary General said the recent execution of Patrick Gabaakanye, was supported by the vast majority of Batswana. Gabaakanye was hanged this past month. Kgathi stated that the BDP has noted the minority voices speaking against the death penalty.
 “As a democracy we appreciate all views and opinions. This is what makes Botswana such a unique and indeed healthy democracy. However, we once again reiterate that under the BDP, capital punishment is here to stay unless Batswana see otherwise”, he told a press conference late Tuesday.

In addition, the Minister challenged opposition parties to declare their position on death penalty. Kgathi said Batswana have to know if the opposition parties are on the side of murders, which after killing innocent citizens should continue to enjoy life, and not be put to death. He indicated that they should also declare if the are on the same page with the BDP government.

“As the BDP we stand on the side of victims of murder and their families hence our retention of capital punishment.” Kgathi said Batswana are at liberty to use any other forum suitable for them to express their opposing views on death penalty.
Meanwhile, Ditshwanelo, the Botswana Centre for Human Rights continues to make strides in campaigning for the abolishment of the death penalty despite facing harsh backlash from uncompromising leadership.

Following Gabaakanye’s execution recently, the centre maintained that both the death penalty and the delay in carrying it out constituted cruel and degrading punishment for the offender and his or her family.

Gabaakanye is the third death row inmate executed since 2008 and under President Ian Khama’s government. Others convicted prisoners that were recently condemned to the gallows include Zibani Thamo and Oreletsie Tlhokamolelo.