Concerns arise among legislators as Botswana and Zimbabwe contemplate the utilization of national identity cards (IDs) for cross-border travel, with President Mokgweetsi Masisi cautioning Members of Parliament (MPs) against inciting turmoil and displaying discrimination towards Zimbabweans.
Addressing Parliament during the Budget Speech, Masisi urged MPs to exercise caution and avoid discriminatory practices against Zimbabweans, pointing out the inconsistency in their reactions compared to similar arrangements with Namibia.
“You remained silent when we implemented this arrangement with Namibia, but now that it involves Zimbabweans, you are displaying discrimination, belittling them, and exhibiting xenophobia. If we were to inspect your phones, some of you may be found to have their contacts and have engaged in illegal hiring,” he asserted.
Masisi’s remarks were prompted by a statement from Wynter Mmolotsi, a legislator from Francistown South, who openly expressed opposition to the potential use of IDs as travel documents for citizens of both countries.
The concerns among legislators have been fueled by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s statement at the Kusi Ideas Festival last year, with worries centered around the perceived lack of consultation and the potential implications for a Zimbabwean invasion.
