04 Jul 2019

The Third meeting of the fifth session of the 11^th Parliament commenced  on July 3 with a notable change of sitting arrangements within the house.

Officially commencing the proceedings, Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Gladys Korowe indicated that the adjustments in the sitting arrangement was motivated by the recent cabinet reshuffle, hence the need to rearrange the sitting order as per Standing Order 14.1.

The newly appointed Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Mr Fidelis Molao joined other ministers, while Assistant Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Mr Karabo Gare and Assistant Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Sethomo Lelatisistswe’s seats were also re-arranged.

Former Minister of Agricultural Development and Food Security, Mr Patrick Ralotsia has since relinquished his ministerial post sit to join the BDP back bench.

Ms Kokorwe also acknowledged acceptance of the official resignation letter of Tati West MP, Mr Biggie Butale from the ruling Botswana Democratic Party to Botswana Patriotic Front, a move that saw the legislator relocating his sit to the opposition side of the isle.

This is the last sitting before general elections. It is after this sitting that the President is expected to dissolve Parliament to pave way for the general election. 

The session is expected to run until August 16. Ends