- The allocation was executed in a fair and democratic spirit of proportional representation
- BCP urges ruling UDC to adhere to democratic principles in nomination of councillors
- Nominated councillors must reflect the parties’ national representation proportionately
- BCP is concerned about UDC’s breach of established protocols with trade unions
Opposition Whip Carter Hikuama, representing the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), has expressed satisfaction with the recent selection and configuration of the parliamentary oversight and standing committees announced this week. The Maun West legislator described the allocation as equitable and democratic, noting the opposition bloc’s contentment. “The allocation was conducted in a fair and democratic spirit, employing a proportional formula based on party representation in parliament for committee eligibility. As the opposition bloc, we welcome and commend the reconfiguration of the committees this time around.”
Hikuama’s remarks reveal a sense of relief from the previous parliament, where essential committees were undermined and failed to fulfill their democratic roles. The ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) previously exerted its parliamentary majority to stifle opposition, proposing a 5:3 ratio in committees comprising eight members. This configuration would allow the committees to form quorums and make decisions without opposition input.
Opposition MPs argued for a 4:4 composition to ensure effective oversight, seeking a majority in these committees since most BDP members serve in the Executive branch and outnumber the BDP backbenchers. Of all committees, only one was chaired by an opposition MP, with the remaining 22 chaired by ruling party MPs, which opposition members argued compromised the committees’ oversight role. Parliamentary committees consist of ruling party MPs who are not cabinet ministers (backbenchers) and opposition MPs. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is automatically chaired by an opposition MP by statutory requirement.
BCP Questions the Nominated Councillor Formula
While the BCP praises the parliamentary committee selection process, it criticizes the ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) for its chaotic method of nominating councillors, attributing the chaos to the Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Ketlhalefile Motshegwa. On November 22, 2024, the Leader of Opposition (LOO) and BCP President, Dumelang Saleshando, wrote to the minister, advising adherence to guiding principles in appointing specially elected councillors, according to a party statement.
“One principle is that the number of specially elected councillors must be proportionate to the parties’ representation as per the national election performance in a given constituency. This, to us, is a fair democratic principle that would prevent distorting the people’s wishes in a particular council.”
The BCP expresses concern that, barely a month into governance, the UDC has seemingly forgotten this clear social contract with the people of Botswana. This breach may lead Batswana to perceive it as an act of bad faith. “We were shocked not only by the LOO being ignored by the minister but also by the circulation of a list of nominated councillors disregarding the shared principle we offered in good faith.”
Government Should Engage All Recognized Trade Unions – BCP
In a statement released on Wednesday, the main opposition party condemned Minister Motshegwa’s handling of discussions with Public Service Trade Unions. Specifically, the BCP is troubled by the recent administrative overreach by Minister Motshegwa. The government’s approach to dialogue with the trade unions appears to be disorganized.
On Monday, Minister Motshegwa summoned only two trade unions—BOPEU and BLLAHWU—to a courtesy meeting to discuss the resuscitation of the Public Service Bargaining Council (PSBC), his intended cabinet contributions regarding the PSBC, and working relations between his ministry and trade unions.
BCP’s concerns highlight that trade union relations are the responsibility of the Minister for State President, Moeti Mohwasa, who oversees the employer party—the Directorate of Public Service Management (DPSM). Concurrently, Minister Mohwasa was also making announcements about prioritizing the PSBC at a press conference.
“It was wrongful for Hon Motshegwa to exclude two recognized trade unions—Manual Workers Union (NACLGPWU) and BOGOWU—from the consultative meeting. Such divisive conduct by a government minister undermines the government’s commitment to inclusivity.”
In conclusion, the BCP advises ministers to temper their excitement and nostalgia regarding personal affinities and political power bases. Ministerial allocations made by His Excellency President Duma Boko should be respected: all ministers ought to honor the President’s prerogative and remain within their designated roles.
