Ian Khama

Ian Khama succeeded Festus Mogae as President of Botswana. He continued the country's tradition of stable, democratic governance and economic growth, but his leadership style was noted for being more authoritarian and centralizing than his predecessors.

Khama, a known conservationist, strengthened anti-poaching laws and deployed the Botswana Defence Force to protect wildlife. His 'shoot-to-kill' policy against poachers reduced elephant poaching but drew criticism from human rights groups.

Khama's government banned opposition leaders from entering some rural areas, citing security concerns. This move was seen as an attempt to suppress political dissent and was criticized by civil society groups as undemocratic.

Khama voluntarily stepped down after serving two terms, respecting Botswana's constitutional term limits. He handed power to his vice president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, but later became a vocal critic of Masisi's government, leading to a political rift.