by Moeti Mohwasa

The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) notes the persistent harassment of the current regime’s political opponents through the use of state institutions.

The democratic backsliding that this country is undergoing is of major concern and worry to us. It is equally disturbing that public confidence in the Judiciary, the assumed last line of defense is waning.

This heightened persecution of the regime’s opponents, which simultaneously entered the stage with the current head of state in 2018, continues unabated.

Before the 2019 General Elections were rigged, the regime made it its priority to besmirch the image and integrity of the leader of the UDC, Cde Duma Boko, and present him as a tax delinquent. It did not stop there.

The security agents persecuted and harassed him in an effort to shore up the fortunes of the regime. His campaign was consistently disrupted.

The same strategy is now being used against Isaac Kgosi and former President, Seretse Khama Ian Khama. This is because the regime is insecure and worried.

The current President fears that he will not get a second term. He has lost the little support he once enjoyed and his approval ratings continue to plummet. The country is experiencing unprecedented looting and corruption under his watch.

Of concern to him should be the serious national issues such as rising unemployment particularly amongst the youth, ongoing challenges facing the informal sector and small, medium enterprises.

Other sectors that face serious challenges are the creative sector, poor public health system, and declining education system. There is also a lack of access to land, water, and electricity by Batswana.

The UDC calls upon the nation to stand up to the regime’s shenanigans and protect whatever is left of this country. Our Democracy is much more important than any individual.