The Botswana government has dismissed claims that President Duma Boko received gifts, including cattle, from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa during his recent visit. In a statement issued Tuesday, the Office of the President labeled the allegations as “baseless” and a deliberate attempt to undermine diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The presidency firmly denied that President Boko, who is not involved in agricultural activities, had received any such gifts. It described the claims as “deliberate propaganda” aimed at misleading the public, tarnishing the administration’s reputation, and damaging the strong relationship between Botswana and Zimbabwe.
The statement urged the public to disregard the allegations and called on the Botswana Publishers’ Forum to address what it termed “mischievous elements masquerading as journalists” spreading disinformation.
Despite the controversy, the presidency emphasized that relations between Presidents Boko and Mnangagwa remain focused on fostering cooperation and advancing mutual development for both countries.