Botswana drops in world press ranking

Botswana drops in world press ranking
Mmegi - Gaberones,Botswana
The 2008 report by Reporters Sans Frontieres has noted that there are problems that make journalists' work difficult in Botswana. The country has dropped from last year's 'Satisfactory Situation' to 'Noticeable Problems'. The report reveals that Botswana is in the same ranking as Central African Republic, Angola, Mozambique, Ivory Coast, Brazil, Indonesia and India.  In southern African region, South Africa, Tanzania, Madagascar and Namibia are the only countries where press freedom is at a satisfactory level. Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo are classified in the 'Difficult Situation'. The problem in Botswana could be because of secrecy in government where officers refuse to release information ... Those in authority do not view the media as a development partner. In many instances, they never call press briefings even when there are serious allegations against government officials, disease outbreaks or a public outcry about an issue. The assault of journalists while on duty especially at the courts or any other public gathering is another challenge that needs to be addressed in Botswana ... Public and private institutions and individuals are adamant that media practitioners are busybodies that deserve nothing than severe punishment legally or otherwise ...