IEC secretary addresses poll staff Candidates and Agents
The Secretary to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Mr Jefferson Siamisang addressed poll staff, candidates and party agents at a training session in Francistown as they prepare for Moselewapula by-election set for 30th July 2022.
In his address he expressed gratitude for the attendance of candidates and agents from political parties who successfully fielded candidates for the by-election. He said that their presence was a step in the right direction if the citizens incessantly aspire for a peaceful Botswana. He emphasized that elections are a backbone for peace and stability and therefore, it is pleasing to see stakeholders taking the exercise with the seriousness it deserves.
He stressed that, elections are run by a legal framework which regulates their conduct. He unequivocally assured participants that IEC at all times implements the legal statutes unvaryingly without any discretionary or arbitrary decisions.
He noted that IEC is alive to the call for reforming election process, and is doing all it can to keep improving continuously so that eventually the process is in sync with the current trends and stakeholdersβ wishes. He however, reminded attendants that processβ transformation is continuous, takes time to effect and therefore calls for patience.
The Secretary requested the candidates to take responsibility in controlling their followers and ensuring that they comply with the law. He reminded everyone that all citizens have a responsibility to control the situation. Presiding Officers as overseers of polling stations, were encouraged to always consult with polling agents for matters which require consensus at polling stations.
