Ian Khama Calls Hichilema ‘Africa’s Newest Dictator’ in Inauguration Row as UPND’s Shalala Fires Back
Breaking News Zambia
NewsFormer Botswana President Ian Khama has sparked political debate after publicly questioning Botswana’s decision to attend the inauguration of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, whom he described as “Africa’s newest dictator”. In a video circulating on social media, Khama is seen questioning Botswana’s Foreign Affairs Minister over the country’s representation at the inauguration, invoking Botswana’s stated Former Botswana President Ian Khama has sparked political debate after publicly questioning Botswana’s decision to attend the inauguration of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, whom he described as “Africa’s newest dictator”. In a video circulating on social media, Khama is seen questioning Botswana’s Foreign Affairs Minister over the country’s representation at the inauguration, invoking Botswana’s stated Former Botswana President Ian Khama calls Hakainde Hichilema Africa’s newest dictator, questioning Botswana’s attendance at his inauguration. Oliver Shalala responds.
Former Botswana President Ian Khama has sparked political debate after publicly questioning Botswana’s decision to attend the inauguration of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, whom he described as “Africa’s newest dictator”.
In a video circulating on social media, Khama is seen questioning Botswana’s Foreign Affairs Minister over the country’s representation at the inauguration, invoking Botswana’s stated commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
“Does the Foreign Affairs Minister regret that Botswana attended the inauguration in Zambia of Africa’s newest dictator?” Khama asks in the video.
The minister, however, defended Botswana’s decision, explaining that attending the inauguration was consistent with the responsibilities of a good neighbour and provided an opportunity for engagement.
The exchange has brought renewed attention to the relationship between the two neighbouring countries and differing political views about Zambia’s democratic governance.
Khama’s description of President Hichilema as a dictator is a strong political judgement. The video does not, by itself, establish the basis for that characterisation, but it has drawn a sharp reaction from members of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
Among those responding was UPND media consultant Oliver Shalala, who launched a personal attack against the former Botswana President.
In his reaction, Shalala described Khama as bitter, alleging that his political frustration was connected to the loss of power by a party associated with his close friend in Zambia.
He further alleged that Khama had lost opportunities to conduct business in Zambia following the change of government.
Shalala’s remarks were personal in nature and included a derogatory reference to Khama’s sexuality, shifting the exchange from the substance of the former president’s criticism to a personal confrontation.
The competing remarks raise questions about the quality of political debate across the region, particularly when criticism of elected leaders and government decisions is met with personal attacks.
While former leaders remain entitled to express views on democracy and governance beyond their borders, the response to such criticism can also shape perceptions of a country’s political culture.
For Botswana, the minister’s explanation points to the importance of maintaining diplomatic engagement with neighbouring states, even where political differences exist.
The episode leaves a broader question: should diplomatic attendance at a neighbouring country’s presidential inauguration be interpreted as an endorsement of its leadership, or simply as recognition of the importance of maintaining relations between states?
Zambian Eye will continue to follow the debate.
Related posts:
- DRC protests raise a question Zambia cannot ignore: What happens when term limits become negotiable?
- South Africa steps in after Zambia cancels Sishuwa’s passport
- “There will NEVER be a third term” — UPND member warns as Hichilema term debate grows
- “I will be tough this term” – President Hichilema
Community Feedback