11 May 2020

The Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) Women’s Wing has said in a press release of May 11 that it is deeply concerned about the recent reports regarding cases of defilement of minors. It is regrettable that one of the allegations of the said offences have been levelled against a Member of Parliament, Mr Polson Majaga.

 “We wish to categorically condemn in the strongest possible terms any act of defilement that may have been committed. We treat these allegations with the strict seriousness, and have faith that the law will take its course and justice will be served expediently,” says the BDP Women’s Wing through the release.

 The chairperson of the BDP Women’s Wing, Ms Unami Lesole says the growing reports of gender-based violence, particularly those involving minors, are of great concern and that an alarming record of 23 child defilement cases in seven days was reported recently, indicative of the dire situation.  The BDP Women’s Wing says the effect of such abuse has far reaching consequences on the lives of the victims.

 “We as adults have the immense responsibility of ensuring that children are protected. We are all reminded of our responsibility as per the Children’s Act of 2009 - that any person, who without reasonable cause, fails to report a case of child abuse, shall be found guilty of an offence and liable to a fine”.

 "The BDP Women’s Wing is committed to ending all forms of violence against children. As ascribed in the BDP 2019 Manifesto we will ensure the implementation of the sex offenders and pedophile register.

 We rally behind the position the BDP expressed in a press statement issued by the secretary general and indeed with other sections of the society to condemn defilement or any form of abuse with the strongest possible voice," says Ms Lesole. ENDS