Duma Boko sparked reactions after pausing during a speech to share his thoughts on relationships, divorce and emotional maturity, saying people should accept when a relationship no longer works instead of forcing it or turning to violence.

The Botswana president said many people wrongly believe they are the “best thing” to happen to a partner, stressing that relationships should end peacefully once one person no longer wants to stay. He argued that society puts unrealistic pressure on couples and then acts shocked when marriages fail.

Speaking on divorce, Boko said people should not be alarmed when unhappy couples separate, adding that in some cases, leaving peacefully is better than situations escalating into violence or abuse.

He also condemned gender-based violence, saying no one has the right to harm another person over relationship issues, while urging people to “close the chapter and open another one” without fights, revenge or public embarrassment.

Boko further joked about receiving threats from men’s groups after earlier comments he made on relationships, adding that kindness and giving should not be transactional or tied to expectations in return.