24 Apr 2013

The Electoral Independent Commission (IEC) has a total of 1 130 cadac gas lamps and 3 216 glow star rechargeable lamps.

Minister for Presidential Affairs and Public Administration, Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi told Parliament that the cadac lamps can retain power for more than 24 hours without the need to refill the gas cylinders while the glow star can last for seven hours between recharges.

Mr Masisi said the lamps are intended for counting centres and polling stations that do not have electricity.

He said IEC always relies on Botswana Police generators as backup in case of power cuts at counting centres.

Francistown MP, Mr Wynter Mmolotsi had asked the minister to state the level of preparedness for 2014 general elections in light of the latest power cuts.

Mr Mmolotsi also wanted to know what backup systems will be in place to ensure availability of power throughout the electioneering process. ENDS