Sun Quickies
Kopong murder case witness dies Just weeks after the Kopong murder case moved to the High Court, a key witness, Gabathuse 'Blackie' Molelu, has died suddenly. Molelu, an uncle to the late Barulaganye Aston, was locked in a legal battle with her husband and murder accused, Outlwile Aston, over the couple's estate. His death, following a short illness, has sparked speculation in the village, with whispers of witchcraft growing louder. The trial is set to feature 29 witnesses.
Top officials decry PAC ‘bullying’ Senior accounting officers have raised alarm over what they call a hostile and intimidating environment during Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings. They accuse the committee, led by Taolo Lucas, of aggressive tactics and political showboating that stifle transparency and openness. The officers have appealed to President Duma Boko and PSP Emma Peloetletse to intervene, warning that the current climate could damage accountability and professionalism in the civil service.
Land ministry conducts survey
The Ministry of Water and Human Settlement is conducting a survey to collect data on Batswana who are interested and ready to own houses across the country. A link has been provided on social media platforms for those who are interested to upload the questionnaire, complete and submit. There are two questionnaires, one targeting individuals who own plots and the other for those without plots but interested in owning a home.
Govt. to support Security academy
Acting Minister for State President, Maipelo Mophuting has announced government support for the proposed Botswana Security Excellence Academy, which aims at offering scholarships and practical training to ensure equal access to careers in security. She was officiating the 2nd Annual Botswana Security and Fire Summit & Expo 2025 at Boipuso Hall this week. The summit brought together key stakeholders to discuss innovation and resilience in national security. Mophuting stressed that peace and security are vital to achieving Vision 2036, highlighting that security is not a privilege but a public good.
Vultures population declines
Vultures are facing alarming population decline across Africa due to poisoning and poaching, threatening the ecological balance. In Botswana, incidents such as the mass poisoning of 537 vultures in 2019 and 50 in Chobe in 2022 underscore the urgency of intervention. In response, Mascom, in collaboration with Raptors Botswana and Goo Moremi Gorge, launched a vulture conservation initiative in 2023, to explore the way forward in securing the survival of these critical scavengers.
Presley Chweneyagae dies at 40
South African celebrity actor, Presley Chweneyagae, known for his breakout role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, has passed away. The cause of death remains unknown. He starred in acclaimed works like ‘More than just a game’ and ‘State of violence.’