Botswana's President Advocate Duma Boko recently addressed the Botswana National Front (BNF) leadership forum in Francistown, where he refuted claims that he opposes the death penalty. Boko, who is also a lawyer, stated that his duty is to respect and enforce the law, noting that the Clemency Committee has never advised him to execute anyone, rendering the criticisms aimed at him unfounded. He unequivocally stated that he understands the gravity of the issue and is guided by the legal framework governing the death penalty in Botswana.

In addition to the death penalty allegations, President Boko took the opportunity to discuss political prospects, asserting that the ruling coalition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), is on course to retain power in the upcoming 2029 general elections. He encouraged BNF members and their coalition partners to collaborate effectively to secure their future success, highlighting that public sentiment favors the UDC over the former ruling Botswana Democratic Party, whom he deemed no longer a viable opposition.

Boko’s speech also included a call for party members to uphold the rule of law, combat corruption, and address gender-based violence effectively. His remarks reflect a commitment to strengthening political unity within his party and the coalition government, underscoring the importance of adherence to legal standards as well as social issues as critical to their electoral strategy going forward.