Gaborone — The release of Lesedi Molapisi from prison in Bangladesh has been confirmed by both the Government of Botswana and human rights organisation DITSHWANELO, even though their statements highlight different dimensions of her ordeal and freedom.

The Government of Botswana announced that Molapisi’s release followed “concerted efforts” by the state, including an appeal for executive clemency by President Duma Gideon Boko, diplomatic engagements by Minister of International Relations Dr Phenyo Butale, and interventions by Botswana’s diplomatic missions in South Africa and India. The government expressed appreciation to Bangladesh for granting clemency, calling the development “a testament to the strong bonds of cooperation between the two countries.”

In contrast, DITSHWANELO – The Botswana Centre for Human Rights emphasised that Molapisi was acquitted by the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh on 28 July 2026, which found no evidence linking her to heroin smuggling. The organisation noted that the earlier death sentence imposed by the Sessions Court in May 2024 was set aside.

DITSHWANELO credited international solidarity and advocacy, including a 2025 prison visit by its director Dr Alice Mogwe in her capacity as then‑President of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), for supporting Molapisi’s appeal. The group also acknowledged consular support from Botswana’s High Commission in New Delhi.

While government framed the release as a product of diplomatic lobbying and clemency, DITSHWANELO underscored the legal acquittal and urged the public and media to respect the Molapisi family’s privacy as they process the trauma of years on death row.

The two narratives reveal a tension, albeit subtle: government highlights state‑to‑state diplomacy and clemency, while civil society stresses judicial vindication and human rights advocacy. Together, they paint a fuller picture of the complex interplay of diplomacy, law, and activism that secured Molapisi’s freedom.

Tracking Lesedi Molapisi’s ordeal

• 23 Jan 2022 — Arrested in Dhaka, Bangladesh for alleged drug smuggling.
• 27 May 2024 — Sentenced to death by Sessions Court.
• Oct 2025 — DITSHWANELO’s Dr Alice Mogwe, then as President of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), visits Molapisi in prison; international advocacy intensifies.
• 28 Jul 2026 — Acquitted by Bangladesh Supreme Court; death sentence set aside.
• 2 Sep 2026 — Government and DITSHWANELO confirm release; family awaits her return home.