Botswana issues arrest warrant for former president, Ian Khama

A court in Botswana has issued an arrest warrant for former President Ian Khama for the possession of illegal firearms.



The judge issued orders that Mr Khama should be arrested on sight.



The 69-year-old left the country last year and has been residing in neighbouring South Africa.



He has denied the charges and says they are part of a political conspiracy after he fell out with his successor President Mokgweetsi Masisi.



Mr Khama left office in 2018 after two five-year terms.



He is facing 14 charges including allegations of money laundering and handling stolen property. The warrant issued is only for the possession of five illegal firearms.



The arrest warrant follows Mr Khama’s failure to appear for trial earlier this year. It could pave the way for Botswana to seek his extradition from South Africa.



Mr Khama, the son of Botswana’s first President Seretse Khama, told Botswana’s mengi news site he would welcome an extradition request as it would give him the chance to expose the “lies” being told about him, in a foreign court.



BBC News