18 Dec 2021

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has appointed a Constitutional Review Commission.

A press release from the Office of the President says Dr Masisi has issued a Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the review of the Constitution of Botswana in accordance with section 2, as read with section 16, of the Commissions of Inquiry Act.

Upon completion of its inquiry, the commission shall submit a report with recommendations to President Dr Masisi not later than the end of September 2022

The commission is chaired by former Chief Justice, Mr Maruping Dibotelo and Mr Johnson Motshwarakgole is the Vice-Chairperson

Members of the commission are Chairman of Ntlo ya Dikgosi, Kgosi Puso Gaborone, Kgosi Divere Ndando, Professor Gobopamang Letamo, Professor Bontle Mbongwe, Reverend Bonolo Mmereki-Burns, and Mr Charles Mokobi.

Other members of the commission are Ms Stella Naledi Moroka, Mr Matthews Letsholo, Mr Moanakwena Keloneilwe, Dr Goemeone Mogomotsi, Mr Dikarabo Ramadubu, and Mr Kukame Ngwamotsoko, Ms Shirley Kefilwe Keoagile, Ms Roselyn Serumola Member, Ms Game Dibeela, Ms Chedza Ntobedzi, and Ms Siphatisiwe Daniel.

The Secretariat of the Commission of Inquiry shall consist of Ms Pearl Ramokoka as head of secretariat, Dr Kaelo Molefe, Ms Berenice Mosime, Ms Idah Lorato Motsamai, and Ms Ntesang Molemele.

 The terms of reference of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry shall be to ascertain from the people of Botswana, their views on the operation of the Constitution and, in particular, the strengths and weaknesses of the Constitution, the press release states.

 The Presidential Commission of Inquiry will also assess the adequacy of the Constitution, in particular by asserting Botswana’s identity, principles, aspirations and values, promoting and protecting people’s rights, promoting equality, and promoting national unity and democracy;

 Additionally the commission will articulate the concerns of the people of Botswana as regards the amendments that may be required for a review of the Constitution.

 The Presidential Commission of Inquiry will conduct inquiries and obtain information from sources that the Commission considers relevant in the execution of its mandate.

 The commission will make any recommendations on the review or amendment of the Constitution.

Members of the Commission will be sworn in at a date to be announced by President Masisi.

ENDS