02 Jul 2020

The Russian community in Botswana on Wednesday participated in a vote proposing amendments to the Russian Federation constitution. 

The proposed amendments, which were adopted and approved by Russia Federation Council, are geared towards increasing among others minimum wage, pensions, benefits and other social aids.

Another proposed amendment covers correlations between decisions of interstate bodies and the constitution..  

In an interview with BOPA, Russian ambassador to Botswana, Mr Victor Sibilev said the amendments covered policy issues relating to protection of the family, maternity, paternity and institution of marriage.

“Each of us has gathered here to express personal attitude to the changes in the fundamental law and determine the destiny of our country,” he said. 

He said the amendments were in accordance with Russian legislation, international law and the will of citizens.

Ambassador Sibilev said foundations of constitutional order and rights of people of Russia would not be covered in the proposed amendments.

Russian citizens living outside the country participated in voting at the set 254 polling stations in 143 countries where there are Russian diplomatic missions and consular offices. 

In Botswana, about 50 Russians were expected to cast their votes in an exercise that was scheduled for June 26-July 1, the ambassador said. Ends