Happy Independence Day!

The Monitor Editor | Tuesday September 26, 2023 06:00

Independence Day holds immense significance for Batswana as a whole. It offers a moment for reflection and celebration of the country's achievements, while also prompting introspection.

We must honestly assess whether the number of years of independence aligns with the progress we have made. While there is certainly much to celebrate, there are also pressing issues that require the attention of relevant stakeholders. Many Batswana are facing significant challenges, with numerous families living paycheck to paycheck, and many households relying on a single income.

It is crucial that we take a serious look at our lives and honestly evaluate whether we are content with the nation's progress. Political party rallies often feature discussions about the ruling Botswana Democratic Party’s (BDP) perceived failures, as well as the government’s accomplishments since independence. While we acknowledge that the issues discussed at these gatherings are not entirely false and that not everything said is gospel truth, the rhetoric often does little to contribute to the country's development or improve the lives of Batswana.

To be fair, we may be unjust in our assessment, as the speeches at Freedom Squares are not intended to build or advance the country; they primarily serve as electioneering strategies.

This is the season of promises, with politicians making grand commitments to the electorate. Regrettably, most of these promises go unfulfilled, highlighting that they are merely persuasive words aimed at securing votes.

The issue of corruption has been a frequent cause for concern among Batswana, and these concerns are growing louder. Corruption poses a threat to a nation's well-being as it erodes trust in the public service's ability to act in the people's interest and depletes government resources, potentially leading to subpar services and stalled projects.

We have witnessed numerous projects being carried over from one National Development Plan (NDP) to the next, with some regrettably perpetually postponed. This is the time to address such matters and hold our leaders accountable, demanding more from them. Sadly, many countries accord great importance to their independence celebrations, while in recent years, our celebration seems somewhat lacking. Independence Day is our day, and we should take pride in celebrating it, showcasing our culture and way of life. Happy Independence, and please remember to celebrate responsibly!