BOTSWANA: MISINFORMATION AND DISINFORMATION LOOM LARGE OVER 2024 POLLS Introduction A S campaigning intensifies ahead of Botswana’s general elections in October 2024, the risk of misinformation and disinformation looms large over what is set to be the most competitive polls in recent years. This situation arises amid a surge in false information and raises crucial questions regarding the role of independent media, the safeguarding of press freedom, and the need for accountability in both public and private domains. The country, which has been governed by one party since independence from Britain in September 1966, maintains an outward image of political stability and economic success. AUTHOR: Joel Konopo However, there are complex realities often overlooked by external observers. Media Freedom Violations 2023 25 STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA 2023