The Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa, yesterday convened an all-party conference in Gaborone to review Botswana’s Electoral Act, marking another step in the government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s democratic and electoral processes.
The conference brought together representatives of political parties and other key stakeholders to examine the current electoral framework and identify areas requiring reform ahead of future elections.
Addressing delegates, Mohwasa emphasised the importance of inclusive dialogue in shaping an electoral system that reflects the aspirations of Batswana while upholding transparency, fairness and public confidence in the democratic process.
He said the review of the Electoral Act provides political parties with an opportunity to make meaningful contributions towards improving electoral governance and ensuring that Botswana’s legal framework evolves in line with emerging democratic standards and best practices.
Delegates deliberated on a range of issues affecting the country’s electoral system, with their submissions expected to inform recommendations for possible amendments to the Electoral Act.
The conference reaffirmed the government’s commitment to undertaking electoral reforms through broad-based consultation and consensus-building, recognising the critical role of political parties and other stakeholders in safeguarding Botswana’s democratic credentials.
Recommendations emerging from the conference are expected to shape the next phase of the Electoral Act review before any proposed legislative amendments are submitted for further consideration.
