President Advocate Duma Boko welcomed esteemed international law expert and British candidate for the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Professor Dapo Akande, during a courtesy call at the Office of the President on July 13. The visit, which underscored the growing diplomatic engagement between Botswana and the United Kingdom, centred on Professor Akande’s candidacy for the prestigious judicial position at the ICJ.
Professor Akande, a globally respected scholar in international law, is seeking Botswana’s support in his bid to serve as a judge at the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. He was accompanied during the meeting by the British High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Giles Enticknap.
The courtesy call provided a platform for Professor Akande to share his vision for upholding justice and promoting the rule of international law through the ICJ. Discussions reportedly focused on the critical role of the Court in maintaining global peace and security, as well as the importance of African representation in international legal institutions.
President Boko, known for his commitment to human rights and international cooperation, welcomed the visit and acknowledged the significance of a diverse and experienced ICJ bench. Botswana has long supported multilateralism and has consistently upheld the rule of law in international relations—values echoed by Professor Akande’s candidacy.
Professor Akande’s impressive legal career includes advisory roles to the United Nations and African Union, along with academic appointments at some of the world’s leading institutions. His engagement with Botswana forms part of a broader campaign to garner support from UN member states ahead of the upcoming elections for ICJ judges.
The visit further reinforced Botswana’s strategic ties with the United Kingdom and highlighted the country’s influence in global judicial and diplomatic affairs. As Professor Akande continues his campaign, his meeting with President Boko marks a meaningful step in strengthening international dialogue and cooperation in the realm of justice.
