14 Oct 2015

Batawana have emphasised the need for live broadcast of parliamentary debates on Botswana Television for the communities to appreciate the input of their representatives.

They made the plea during a kgotla meeting addressed by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Gladys Kokorwe saying live debates would give the public a clear picture of the parliament proceedings and also give them an opportunity to assess the capability and quality of their representatives first hand instead of learning from the media reports.

One of the residents, Kgosi Judith Sedumedi noted that live debates would be a step in the right direction as it would be a way of taking parliament to the people. 

“We want to see our parliamentarians live because some of us can not afford to attend parliament session in Gaborone because of the distance but Botswana Television is accessible,” she added.

On other issues, some residents  raised a concern about some policies and acts which they said need to be reviewed.

Mr John Sebokwana complained about nomination of some representatives who had been rejected by the electorates during elections. He said to nominate them in power lowers the value of democracy as the electorates had spoken that the nominated person is not capable. 

For her part, Ms Kokorwe informed residents that it is her wish for parliamentary sessions to be live on television. 

She said negotiations are ongoing to finalise the issue as it was once discussed during parliament session and agreed on.

The Speaker of the National Assembly explained that live debates would be an advantage as it would also force MPs to speak in an acceptable manner.

Ms Kokorwe said live debates could address issues of members absenteeism from parliament as members of parliament will know that their electorates were watching.

Regarding the issue of her freedom, Ms Kokorwe explained that she if free to perform her duties. 

“I don't take orders from any one even the President but there is a smooth collaboration between our offices.”

She also revealed that she does not seek permission to conduct meetings or to do anything concerning her office. 

About the nomination of “rejected” representatives, Ms Kokorwe noted that the electorates might have rejected them because of their own reasons  but people who have powers to nominate may consider some qualities from them hence they are nominated.

Meanwhile, residents were taught about the composition of parliament, functions and roles of parliamentarians. 

Ms Kokorwe urged the public to read the Constitution of Botswana so that they could familiarise themselves with the roles of every ministry including parliament.

She also urged the public to create time and attend parliament deliberations noting that public participation could also make parliamentarians account for their time during parliament sessions.

Ms Kokorwe said apart from visiting parliament, the public could use the office of their member of parliament. 

She said members of parliament linked the community with government. Maun West MP, Mr Tawana Moremi thanked the Speaker of the National Assembly for taking parliament to the people noting that the move would give them an opportunity to understand the proceedings of the National Assembly. Ends