Former president Ian Khama has returned to Botswana after three years of self-imposed exile, appearing in court on Friday to face multiple charges, including money laundering and illegal possession of firearms.
The 71-year-old’s return comes a few months after he alleged that there was a plot to poison him should he set foot in the country – a claim the government has dismissed as “outrageous.”
Khama led Botswana from 2008 until 2018 and has been a vocal critic of his successor, President Mokgweetsi Masisi.
He has previously regrated his decision to appoint Masisi as his successor in the ruling Botswana Democratic Party, describing it as a “mistake.”
With national elections approaching next month, Khama has announced that he will not be standing for office.
The magistrate lifted arrest warrants that had been issued against Khama in 2022 due to his previous absences from court.
Khama has consistently denied the 14 charges against him, which also include handling stolen property, asserting that they are politically motivated.
He is facing these charges alongside former heads of the intelligence and police services.
Khama is due to appear in court again on September 23.
JN/APA