Over the Easter holidays, a delegation of Bagammangwato royals and tribal leaders from Botswana visited Eswatini with a crucial mission: to meet with former Botswana President, Seretse Khama Ian Khama, and discuss his potential return home.

Percy Simelane, the Director of Communications at the King’s Office, confirmed that while Khama frequently visits Eswatini for national events or private discussions with His Majesty, King Mswati III, the alleged meeting regarding his return was not disclosed to Swati officials due to its nature as a Tswana matter.

Representing the Bagammangwato royals, Kgosi Rasebolai Mojampo Kgamane expressed their collective concern over recent events in Botswana. He cited perceived harassment and destabilization of Gammangwato by President Mokweetsi Masisi’s administration, along with reported persecution of Khama’s family, as driving factors behind their public advocacy.

Kgosi Rasebolai emphasized Khama’s role as a Paramount Chief (Kgosigolo) of Gammangwato, stressing the familial obligation to protect their tribe and its legacy. Additionally, as relatives of both Khama and the founding president of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama, they felt compelled to intervene in light of mounting challenges.

The delegation was relieved to find Khama and his family in good health, marking a positive start to discussions about his potential return. However, the outcome of their meeting and the broader implications for Botswana’s political landscape remain to be seen.

As tensions simmer and calls for change intensify, the Bagammangwato royals’ visit underscores the deep-seated concerns within Botswana’s tribal leadership and the significance of Khama’s role in the nation’s future.