Botswana president Duma Boko has hailed the late former president of the country Festus Mogae as one of the nation’s greatest custodians, praising his humility, dignity and dedication to public service.
Boko paid his respect on Wednesday at the remains of Mogae which lies in state at the National Assembly in Gaborone.
A three day mourning period was announced last Friday.
Taking to social media, Boko described Mogae as a distinguished son of the soil, a principled leader and a statesman who dedicated his life to serving the nation.
“As I pay my respects to former president Festus Mogae and sign the condolence book while he lies in state at the National Assembly, I honour a leader whose stewardship strengthened Botswana’s standing, safeguarded the stability of our democracy, and upheld the values of responsible leadership, discipline and national unity,” said Boko.
Mogae, who served as Botswana’s president from April 1998 to April 2008, died on 8 May in Gaborone after a long illness.
Botswana has declared 15 May an unpaid public holiday in his honour.
