GABORONE – Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi is confident of a win when he contests his first elections in October.

Masisi took over the reins from former president Ian Khama last year, but Khama has since lambasted him about his policy decisions.

One of these has been the lifting of the ban on hunting, especially that of elephant hunting.

Khama has even resigned from the ruling Botswana Democratic Party, which he served for decades.

Masisi says he still has the utmost respect for his predecessor.

However, he couldn’t resist taking a jab at Khama.

“It’s unfortunate, its also very childish but you know sometimes adults are allowed to be childish, or politicians are allowed to be childish,” said Masisi.

Former members of parliament and chiefs have criticised Khama’s behaviour.

“It’s not easy with Ian Khama, he is an absolute hard nut to crack he is so stubborn,” said Kweneng-District Chief Kgosikwena Sebele.

“This is a fact he is never ready to accept advances.”

Masisi has lashed out at those against his lifting of the hunting ban.

Meanwhile, Khama has endorsed the new Botswana Patriotic Front party.