Ubuntu/Botho and Democracy in the Traditional Tswana Society

Abstract

This chapter discusses how Ubuntu is manifested through democracy within the Tswana traditional society. It contends that democracy in the Tswana traditional society was not a new concept. From time immemorial, Batswana have practiced a unique form of democracy that was based on the Tswana cultures. This hybrid form of democracy though different from liberal democracy as understood today has served the Batswana over the years. The kgotla as a community forum continues to be the focal point for exemplifying the relationship between democracy and Ubuntu. It further suggests that the way democracy is taught in schools should be aligned to how it is practiced in the society.