Botswana: Ian Khama getting set to step down as president at the end of March 2018

Botswana’s President, Ian Khama is getting set to step down as president at the end of March 2018, when his term officially ends.

In an address to the nation, Khama who was re-elected for a 2nd term in 2014 said he will leave the office to the country’s vice president Mokgweetsi Masisi who will serve as interim president until the presidential election scheduled for 2019.

The 64 year-old Khama – the son of Sir Seretse Khama, Botswana’s first post-independence leader – was first elected president in April 2008. He was re-elected for a 2nd term in 2014.

Under Khama’s leadership, the country has continued to enjoy rapid economic growth. The country’s impressive economic record has been built on a foundation of diamond mining, prudent fiscal policies and a cautious foreign policy.
Botswana which boasts one of the highest rates of income per capita in the world, is on track to diversifying its economy to include stable financial services.

The country’s growth trajectory slowed in 2015 as a result of the collapse of global commodity prices.

President Khama is described by his critics as tough, decisive and efficient.
His no-nonsense style made him popular in the country. He broke ranks with regional leaders’ timid approach to the democratic abuses by Zimbabwe’s former President Robert Mugabe.

Khama, will also step down from the leadership of his ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP).