31 Jul 2013

The Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Mr Dikgakgamatso Seretse has applauded Members of Parliament for approving the Legal Aid Bill.

Speaking in Parliament following the adoption of the bill, Mr Seretse said he would consider some of the comments made by MPs during their debate saying others would be included in the rules and regulations.

Responding to some of the comments, he said the Legal Aid was a professional entity and to give its administration to the district commissioners could set it up for failure adding it should be accessible to Batswana throughout the country.

He said the establishment of the Legal Aid did not make it impossible for any other organisation to pursue the same industry saying even the University of Botswana Legal Clinic could continue to run. Mr Seretse said local lawyers would be engaged.

On who would qualify, the minister said a definition of indigent people would be provided for in the rules and regulations which would be presented to Parliament. He explained that the report from the pilot project highlighted the need to have a website and a toll free line and this would be pursued.

Mr Seretse said issues relating to the Legal Aid size and expenditure must involve the minister hence the minister’s involvement in appointing the Board and Chief Executive Officer.

He further explained that criminal cases would not be handled by the Legal Aid Council adding people would be given legal advice before they take their matters to court. BOPA