Botswana's President Boko: EFF Demands US Air Base Demolition, ANC Urges SADC Leadership

EFF's Message to Botswana

• 💡 The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) conveyed greetings and apologies for their leader Julius Malema's absence due to a court appearance.
• 👏 The EFF drew inspiration from the Botswana National Front's (BNF) 59 years in opposition before gaining power, seeing it as a model for patience and determination.
• ⚠️ The EFF representative recounted a personal history of detention in Botswana during the apartheid era, highlighting Botswana's role as a frontline state.

Demand for US Air Base Demolition

• 🚀 The EFF explicitly demanded the demolition of the US military base in Botswana, identifying it as a threat to South Africa's sovereignty.
• 🚨 They argued the Thebephatshwa airbase is a symbol of neocolonial presence and could be used for foreign surveillance or intervention against a future EFF government.
• 🌍 The EFF urged President Boko to follow the example of President Chaware in the Sahel region regarding the removal of foreign military influence.

ANC's Call for Regional Leadership

• ✅ The African National Congress (ANC) expressed support for the Botswana National Front's 60th anniversary and conference.
• 🤝 The ANC urged Botswana's President Duma Boko to lead the unity of all progressive forces within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
• 🌐 The ANC emphasized the need for President Boko to transform international institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank, advocating for the Global South.

Historical Context and Alliance

• 📜 The ANC acknowledged Botswana's historical role as a frontline state during apartheid, supporting South Africa's freedom.
• 🤝 The ANC confirmed existing bilateral relations and ongoing cooperation with the Botswana National Front.