Ian Khama Returns to Botswana Amid Legal Challenges

Ian Khama, Botswana's former president, returned from a three-year self-imposed exile to face multiple charges, including unlawful possession of firearms and money laundering, which he claims are politically motivated. His unexpected court appearance in Gaborone surprised state prosecutors, as Khama had informed them he would return 10 days later. The magistrate granted him interim bail and suspended two existing arrest warrants stemming from his previous no-shows. Khama, who served as president until 2018, has publicly criticized his successor, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, whom he labels as 'the Botswana version of Donald Trump'. Ahead of the upcoming elections on October 30, Khama is not running for office but supports the opposition Botswana Patriotic Front in its bid to oust Masisi. He is scheduled to return to court on September 23.