18 Jan 2017

Electronic Voting Machine coordinator Mr Gabriel Seeletso has allayed fears pertaining to the Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) expected to be used in the next general elections as part of electoral reforms.

Addressing Kasane residents in a kgotla meeting on Monday morning, Mr Seeletso emphasised that the machines could not be hacked into as has been alleged.

He said that unlike American voting machine, this particular machine would not use satellite and as such cannot be accessed by anyone from anywhere.

In the USA presidential elections, Russia has been accused of tempering with the outcome of the USA elections online which saw Donald Trump emerge victorious.

It was against this fear raised by one of the residents Mr Victor Liwena about the likelihood of a similar occurrence presenting itself in Botswana’s 2019 elections, that Mr Seeletso emphasised the differences that exist between the USA’s EVM model and Botswana’s.  He however noted that since this was a new system, it should not be surprising that there is anxiety and differing opinions.

“This is why I am here to seek the buy-in of the community and sensitise the electorate about the amended electoral act and the introduction of the EVM,” he said.

This, he said is part of Independent Electoral Commission’s countrywide public education exercise to sensitise voters about the new electoral act.

The soon to be introduced electronic voting machine is expected to also cater for those with disabilities such as the visually challenged.

It is envisaged that the machine will reduce long queues, eliminates spoilt votes as well as cutting costs amongst other benefits.

Mr Seeletso also noted that the ongoing land registration exercise will help them ensure that voters register in their rightful constituencies where they have residence unlike in the past where it was difficult to fact check. ENDS