As Botswana celebrated 59 years of independence yesterday, Commissioner of Police Dinah Marathe chose to mark the occasion in a different way. Instead of attending national festivities, she spent the day visiting police officers manning roadblocks and patrolling highways in the southern part of the country.
The Commissioner’s tour was a gesture of appreciation and support for officers who worked during the holiday to safeguard the public. She commended their dedication and reminded them that their service was critical in upholding law and order. Marathe also urged them to maintain professionalism, discipline, and commitment in their duties.
Her visit began at the Tlokweng Border before moving through Lobatse and nearby villages including Molapowabojang, Lotlhakane East, Moshupa, Thamaga, and Molepolole. Along the route, she met and interacted with officers, listening to their concerns and offering encouragement.
In Thamaga, Commissioner Marathe attended Independence Day celebrations at the Kgotla, where she paid a courtesy call on the traditional leadership. She was welcomed by Kgosi Bone Gobuamang, Member of Parliament for Thamaga/Kumakwane Hon. Palelo Motaosane, and members of the community who had gathered for the festivities.
Marathe highlighted the importance of cooperation between police officers, traditional authorities, and the public in strengthening community safety. She praised village leaders and residents for their continued support of law enforcement efforts.
Officers expressed gratitude for the Commissioner’s personal engagement, saying the visit boosted their morale and reminded them that police leadership valued their work. They pledged to continue serving with dedication and to respond effectively to the needs of the public.
Commissioner Marathe’s choice to spend Independence Day with officers underscored the commitment of the Botswana Police Service to recognize and support those who serve on the frontline, even during national celebrations.
