GABORONE, Botswana – Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Nelson Chamisa has met Botswana’s former president Ian Khama, in an on-going effort to build up support for his party in the region.
Chamisa said he discussed ways to advance democracy in Zimbabwe, and the region. The meeting took place on Tuesday.
“I had a hugely enriching engagement with His Excellency… So fulfilling to tap and drink from this well of wisdom,” Chamisa said on Twitter.
The MDC leader said “fixing African problems to make all African countries citadels of democracy and prosperity is key,” while also noting that “leadership matters.”
“This is part of our regional engagements as we seek an urgent solution to our challenges as Zimbabweans. We’re part of the bigger African family, African counsel and support is fundamental,” he added.
Khama stepped down as Botswana president last year, and the 57-year-old Mokgweetsi Masisi, his former deputy, took over.
Khama is often credited for candidly speaking up against the erosion of democratic practices in Africa, and often clashed with former Zimbabwe president Robert Mugabe whom he accused of overstaying in power.
Chamisa hopes to draw the attention of SADC leaders and elder statesmen to the human rights situation in Zimbabwe as President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government continues to clamp down on dissent and limit space for opposition rivals.
