Freezing the Press: Freedom of Expression and Statutory Limitations in Botswana

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Periodical article

Title:	Freezing the Press: Freedom of Expression and Statutory Limitations in Botswana
Author:	Maripe, Bugalo
Year:	2003
Periodical:	African Human Rights Law Journal
Volume:	3
Issue:	1
Pages:	52-75
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Botswana
Subjects:	constitutions freedom of speech freedom of the press Literature, Mass Media and the Press Law, Human Rights and Violence Politics and Government
Abstract:	Freedom of expression is guaranteed under section 12(1) of the Botswana Constitution. Limitations of this 'right' have to comply with the requirements in section (12)2, which allows for the limitation of freedom of expression under Botswana law. This article analyses a number of statutory provisions (the National Security Act, the Corruption and Economic Crime Act and Penal Code) and a government directive (to cease advertising in particular newspapers) that limit this right. The author investigates whether these limitations are in conformity with the Constitution. He concludes that there has been a significant erosion of freedom of expression, and laments the absence of judicial pronouncements on this issue. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]