His Excellency the President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has appointed the Constitutional Review Commission led by Former Chief Justice Maruping Dibotelo
The commission is chaired by Former Chief Justice Maruping Dibotelo consists of leaders and professionals from most sectors. Trade Unionist and labour rights activists, Johnson Motshwarakgole is the Vice Chairperson of the Commission, there is also Ntlo ya Dikgosi Chairperson, Kgosi Puso Gaborone, Reverend Bonolo Mmereki-Burns, and Professor Gobopamang Letamo among others.
The Secretariat of the Commission is led by Ms. Pearl N. Ramokoka as the Head of Secretariat. Other members include; Dr. Kaelo Molefe, Ms. Berenice Mosime, Ms. Idah Lorato Motsamai, and Ms. Ntesang Molemele.
“NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with section 2, as read with section 16, of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, His Excellency the President Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has issued a Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the review of the Constitution of Botswana.” reads the notice paper.
The Commission shall be responsible for; ascertaining from the people of Botswana, their views on the operation of the Constitution and, in particular, the strengths and weaknesses of the Constitution.
It will further assess the adequacy of the Constitution, in particular by βasserting Botswanaβs identity, principles, aspirations and values; promoting and protecting peopleβs rights; promoting equality; and promoting national unity and democracy.
The team will also articulate the concerns of the people of Botswana as regards the amendments that may be required for a review of the Constitution.Moreover, it will conduct inquiries and obtain information from sources that the Commission considers relevant in the execution of its mandate.
Furthermore, the Commission will make any recommendations on the review or amendment of the Constitution.
Upon completion of its inquiry, the Commission is set to submit a report with recommendations to His Excellency the President not later than the end of September 2022.
Constitution amendment has been a burning issue, with the setting up of the commission, there might be hope that compiling a new constitution that talks to the people, about the people, by the people, may see the light of the day soon.
