Botswana Holds Steady on Death Penalty Despite UK Lobby
Gaborone – The Government of Botswana has reaffirmed its unwavering stance on the death penalty, following a high-level engagement with the United Kingdom’s Death Penalty Project Team.
The visiting delegation paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Nelson Ramaotwana, to engage on Botswana’s position regarding capital punishment and broader issues of criminal justice reform.
In his response, Minister Ramaotwana made it clear that the death penalty remains firmly embedded in the country’s legal framework, citing Section 25 of the Penal Code, which permits courts to impose the ultimate sentence.
“The law is clear—death remains one of the punishments that may be imposed by our courts,” he said.
While Botswana continues to face international pressure to abolish capital punishment, authorities insist that the country will uphold its sovereign laws and respect for legal procedures.
The meeting reflects ongoing international interest in Botswana’s justice system, particularly as global movements against the death penalty gain traction.