The leader of the Real Alternative Party (RAP)- Brother Gaontebale Mokgosi has condemned Masisi’s approach to the State of Public Emergency. Mokgosi has accused His Excellency the President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi and his Party of trembling upon basic human rights.
“The state of emergency has been imposed without respecting due process in guaranteeing the economic and social rights and the very right to life. If anything the state of emergency has reinforced the trend of a โconstitutional dictatorshipโ and vertical governance that characterizes the inherent BDP State style of ruling. Its implementation is marked by the absence of, consultation processes with parliament, independent consultative bodies such as the private sector, local authorities and civil society organizations. We strongly suspect that even the justice and reconciliation institutions such as the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice are kept in the dark in terms of the implementation of emergency regulations and measures.” Mokgosi charged.
In that regard, the RAP stands in solidarity with Kgalagadi Breweries Limited (KBL) on its case against the government. The KBL challenges the government’s decision to indefinitely ban the sale of alcohol. RAP is of the view that “protecting human life and dignity, and prohibiting discrimination, in situations of emergency is indispensable to the survival of the population.” The party consider the stance taken by Masisi`s presidency towards KBL to be less than ideal. In fact, RAP find a majority of emergency regulations and measures adopted by the BDP State to stop the spread of the pandemic to be “vague when it comes to human rights protection, especially the non-derogable rights.”
According to RAP’s Mokgosi, declaring a state of national disaster to preserve the health of the population has to ensure that it does not endanger their economic security at the same time otherwise the COVID-19 restrictions become self-defeating. “Such a State of Emergency risks becoming a human rights disaster.” Mokgosi observed.
RAP further advises President Masisi to relinquish the Task Force and transfer its mandate to NAHPA, “for emergency expertise and overseeing the process and provide some scientific legitimacy to the measures that needs to be taken.” RAP is of the view that NAHPA is equally competent to carry out the duty.
