07 Dec 2015

Vice President Mr Mokgweetsi Masisi has showed displeasure towards the MP for Francistown West’s behavior for using unparliamentary language and delaying the business of the day.

Mr Masisi said for Mr Ignatius Moswaane to use offensive language and to refuse an order from the Speaker to withdraw comments was unparliamentary.

Controversy came after the Deputy Speaker, Mr Kagiso Molatlhegi had told the Speaker, Ms Gladys Kokorwe that the Francistown West MP did not come to his office to submit an urgent motion on shortage of water that has affected the country. Mr Moswaane labeled Mr Molatlhegi a professional liar, something which did not sit well with the Vice President.

Standing Order 57.4 says it shall be out of order to use offensive language and insulting language about MPs, of which Mr Moswaane defied.

The Francistown West MP had suggested that Parliament treat the motion on the water crisis as a matter of urgent importance and be discussed to see how best could people be helped, and also that the government should declare a state of emergency.

The Speaker dismissed him for not following the procedures of presenting a motion.

Mr Moswaane felt the Speaker was not fair on him and stuck to his words and did not withdraw.

“What I am asking for is simple, let the house talk about this matter and we resolve, that’s what I am asking for. I don’t think we can ignore an urgent matter and sit here and answer questions. Let’s attend to this matter so that members make comments, we would have done justice to Batswana,” said Mr Moswaane. ENDS