The Botswana Congress Party (BCP) has issued a strong call for national intervention following a series of violent assaults on police officers, which the party says threaten the very foundation of public order and state authority.
Speaking in Parliament under Standing Orders 9.3.2 and 41.1.2, Acting Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Taolo Lucas, condemned the recent attacks as “barbaric” and “an affront to the peace and tranquility of the Republic.” His remarks come in the wake of two disturbing incidents: one in Mmathethe, where a police officer was hacked in the head with an axe during an investigation, and another in Molepolole, where a traffic officer was assaulted while in uniform and on duty.
🛡️ “An Attack on the State” “These wanton acts of violence on police officers must not be allowed to fester,” Lucas declared. “An attack on members of the Police Service is an attack on the peace, tranquility and good order of the Republic.”
He emphasized the constitutional and statutory role of the Botswana Police Service, citing their mandate to protect life and property, prevent and detect crime, and maintain public security under the Botswana Police Act.
BCP’s Proposed Measures In response to the escalating threat, Lucas outlined a multi-pronged strategy aimed at reinforcing police safety and public trust:
Public education on police grievance procedures; to encourage lawful conflict resolution
National campaign against violence targeting police Raise awareness and promote respect for law enforcement.
Review of police operational procedure; To equip officers with non-lethal self-defence tools
Trauma support for affected officer; to Provide psychological and emotional care
National dialogue on arming police Explore policy options amid rising threats
Lucas urged fellow lawmakers and government officials to take a firm stance in support of law enforcement, calling for a united front against what he termed the “primitive use of violence” against peace officers.
With regard to solidarity with the Police, Lucas said; “Theirs is a noble task in our society of being the guarantors of peace and security, the protectors of our lives and properties,” adding that this was the BCP’s unwavering support for the Botswana Police Service.
