The communications regulator, BOCRA, has been advised to consider lifting the ban on advertising by political parties during the election period. Participants and panellists at the ongoing National Broadcasting conference observed that broadcasters need badly need the advertising revenue that political parties splash around the time. Media activists said it was unfair that advertising was banned for broadcasters while it was allowed o other media platforms. However, Media and Content Manager at BOCRA, Masego Jeremiah, explained the rationale behind the ban, saying the regulator was trying to avoid a situation whereby some political parties or candidates may gain unfair advantage and dominate the airwaves using their financial muscle. Participants advised suggested capping advertising to avoid giving advantage to those with a lot of money.  Regulators from Zamabia and Malawi also advised BOCRA to consider lifting the ban, as it is the case in their respective countries. Meanwhile, The conduct of the state broadcaster, the Department of Broadcasting Services, once again came under the spotlight at the National Broadcasting Conference. UDC spokesman, Moeti Mohwasa led the complaints against the state media for giving the ruling party unlimited access to their platforms while leaving out other political players. A DBS official, Keiterele Mathapi explained that while they are not regulated by BOCRA, they have developed an internal editorial policy on covering political activities. She said the policy is guided by the SADC guidelines on covering elections. Mathapi further explained that they have not started covering political rallies but only press conferences. She however said it is their policy that the President and Vice President enjoy 100 percent coverage wherever they go.

The issue of community radio station has for the second day dominated discussion at the ongoing National Broadcasting Conference, which ends today. Participants have called on communications regulator, BOCRA, to seriously consider licensing community radio stations in order to increase information reach across the country. Various speakers have pressed BOCRA for answers on why community radios have not been allowed. However, the former chairman National Broadcasting Board member, Masego Mpotokwane, explained that the issue of community radio stations was polluted by fears that the stations will lead to civil strife as it happened in Rwanda in the mid 90's. The National Broadcasting Board is the authority that preceded BOCRA.  Meanwhile...Veteran South African broadcaster and former SABC CEO, Phil Molefhe, has encouraged Botswana to embrace the concept of community radio stations. Speaking to Gabz FM earlier, Molefhe said Botswana makes a strong case for community radio model. Molefhe said government should bear the costs of setting up the stations warned that Botswana should learn from the South African experience where more than 700 radio stations mushrooms when licensing for them opened up.

Maun communities will this coming Sunday march against concerning passion killings and rape cases in their area. Vice President Slumber Tsogwane together with the Minister of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs, Dorcas Makgato are expected to attend the event. In an interview with Gabz FM news, District No5 Officer Commanding Senior Superintendent Peter Gochela said they are concerned about the increasing number of these offences, hence they want to sensitize he community about them. Gochela revealed that this year alone they already had eight cases of passion killing with Maun on the lead with five cases. He also revealed that they have already registered over 100 rape cases in 2018. The public has been urged to attend the event.

Today marks the deadline for the Botswana Movement for Democracy to have responded to the issues raised in the official communication of their suspension in the Umbrella for Democratic Change. UDC leader, Duma Boko, told the media last month that the coalition party had received uncomplimentary feedback regarding the leader of the BMD Advocate Sidney Pilane. But all indications are that the BMD are ready to go to court to challenge their suspension from the coalition party as they have publicly rejected the suspension. BMD Secretary General Gilbert Mangole has said that the purported decision is unlawful and is a nullity. He also argued that, in accordance with 2012 Constitution, the decision is invalid because it automatically disqualifies the Botswana Congress Party, who were part of the suspension decision, from the coalition.