Gaborone High Court judges have dismissed with costs Kgalagadi Breweries case to have their matter against alcohol ban heard as matter of urgency.

The judges ruled that the matter is not urgent and will be heared under normal court hearing.

Government lawyers had argued that the matter was not urgent.

Court had adjourned this morning to look into whether it should listen to matter on urgent basis.

Masisi imposed ban on the sale of alcohol, more than thrice, saying it contributes to an increase in COVID-19 cases.

KBL on the other hand claim that alcohol ban impacts negatively on the economy and its value chain.

However, the company has released a statement following the Court’s judgement.

Kgalagadi Breweries (Pty) Limited (KBL) is deeply disappointed by the High Court of Botswana’s dismissal of the company’s application to set aside the decision by the Government of Botswana to impose an indefinite wholesale alcohol ban. The Court ruled on the basis that KBL’s application was not of an urgent nature, and therefore did not deal with the merits of the application and the devastating impact on the industry.

KBL extends its gratitude for all the support and encouragement it has received. Your support has strengthened our conviction and commitment to continue to defend the rights of the approximately 50,000 lives and 200,000 livelihoods whom the alcohol industry supports.

#LiftTheBan #SaveLivesandLivelihoods