17 Mar 2014

Expecting councilors to officiate at funerals and using their vehicles to collect firewood might be a thing of the past thanks to the soon to be launched code of conduct for councilors.

Speaking at the signing of the code of conduct on Saturday, March 16, chairperson for Chobe District Council, Mr Mwanota Kachana, said that the code would help in defining the duties and functions of a councilor.

“Normally people expect us to do ridiculous things and do not expect us to object,” he said, adding that they are often threatened with being denied votes by their electorates.

He noted that they would educate their electorate on the new code of conduct so that they could monitor their performance effectively.

Secretary of Botswana Association of Local Authorities (BALA), Mr Steve Pheko explained that the code would be a guiding tool for councilors.

He added that the code covered administration which outlines duties and functions, as well as principles and values and conduct.

“This code will be periodically reviewed and BALA will be responsible for the monitoring and enforcement,” he explained.

The code has been signed by both the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development and the Permanent Secretary. The document will be launched in May this year. ENDS