The Government of Botswana has announced the release of its citizen, Lesedi Molapisi, from prison in Bangladesh, where she had been facing the death penalty following a 2024 conviction for drug smuggling.
In a formal statement, the government confirmed that Molapisi’s release followed extensive diplomatic interventions and advocacy, including a direct appeal for clemency and sentence commutation by Botswana’s President Duma Boko.
Gaborone expressed deep appreciation to Bangladeshi authorities for granting clemency, describing the decision as a testament to the strong diplomatic ties and co-operation between the two nations.
The bilateral negotiations involved engagements by Botswana’s Minister of International Affairs, Dr Phenyo Butale, alongside top Bangladeshi officials, including the former Head of the Interim Government, Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus. Botswana’s diplomatic missions in South Africa and India also played a critical role in co-ordinating consular assistance and logistical support throughout the process.
–ChannelAfrica–
