Legislating: Foundation for the 2nd Republic of Botswana

If I were part of the leadership of the new government of Botswana, my thoughts would be clear from day one- focus on enacting real, tangible reforms rather than simply settling into office and getting swallowed in the intricacies of statecraft at first.

For me, the key to achieving this is legislating new changes. This period is critical to prove that we are a government of action, not just promises, and to address the very concerns that were universally raised for years.

This is how visible impact can be established- impact that would differentiate the new government from the past one- marking a complete departure from the past. ?For me, legislation solidifies reforms into law, making them harder to reverse, and addresses long-standing structural issues that have hindered national progress.

People expect swift political change, and Parliament should be the arena where this happens. Their focus must be on creating a new Botswana where the government truly belongs to the people.

Through the Parliament, the new government can set the stage for long-lasting reform- legislative actions will not only demonstrate a clear commitment to the promises made during the campaign but will also address longstanding grievances, and provide a solid foundation for a more accountable, transparent, and just government.

Many promises made by the new government hinge on foundational changes. People voted for political change, and it’s only fair they expect to see that change early on, particularly in Parliament.

Additionally, the new leadership must actively use their roles in the executive to advance this agenda, instead of being caught in the hum-drum of defending actions taken by the erstwhile government and the traditional circuit of keynote speech giving and cutting of ribbons.

Learning from History: The French Republic's Example

The French’s establishment of the Fifth Republic offers valuable lessons for Botswana’s ‘Second Republic’. When Charles de Gaulle led to the Fifth Republic in France, it was built on three core principles: Liberté (Liberty), égalité (Equality), and Fraternité (Fraternity). These ideals weren’t just empty words; they became the backbone of a resilient government that sought to outlast its predecessors.

Botswana is at a similar crossroads today. The opportunity for a “Second Republic” presents a unique chance to reflect on our governance systems and introduce bold reforms that will strengthen our democracy, promote socio-economic development, and foster unity across the nation.

Just as France rebuilt its institutions after war and instability, Botswana now stands at the threshold of renewal, with the power to shape a more just, inclusive, and accountable government. By taking decisive action early on and enacting meaningful legislative reforms, Botswana can establish a strong foundation for the ‘Second Republic’- one that will endure for generations to come.

Much like Winston Churchill, who once declared, "In the high position I shall occupy, it will fall to me to save the Capital and Empire," it now falls to this government to restore faith in Botswana's governance, set the nation on a new path, and solidify its future.

In my limited appreciation of the state of affairs, below are some of the areas that the new government, through legislating must be seized with:

1. Strengthening Parliamentary Independence

Reform Parliamentary Procedures: Introducing clear mechanisms for greater control over the budgeting process, enhanced powers for questioning the executive, and the ability to set a robust legislative agenda are critical for ensuring that Parliament’s role as a check on the executive is not just theoretical.

Independent Parliamentary Budget Office: By establishing a fully independent, Parliament can have a neutral body assessing government spending and ensuring resources are used responsibly. This will also make government financial decisions more transparent to the public.

Empowering Committees: Parliamentary committees need the legal authority to investigate corruption and inefficiency, including the ability to subpoena witnesses and documents. This ensures greater transparency and accountability within the government.

2. Limiting Unchecked Executive Powers

Review of Executive Authority: The current over-concentration of power in the hands of the president has led to inefficiencies. We must pass legislation that introduces checks on the president’s decision-making, requiring more transparency and public accountability for executive actions.

Oversight of Presidential Appointments: Introducing a parliamentary approval process for key appointments ensures that only qualified individuals serve in high office, reducing the risks of nepotism and cronyism.

State Resource Reform: Limiting the discretionary use of state resources for political gain is essential. We must ensure that government resources are used only for public welfare, not personal or political advantage.

3. Kick-starting Constitutional Reform

Constitutional Reform Process: The constitutional review must be a serious, structured effort, addressing long-standing issues such as human rights, governance, and the decentralization of power.

Decentralizing Power: Botswana’s central government has too much influence over local decisions. A reformed constitution should decentralize power, giving more autonomy to regional governments.

Electoral Reforms: Moving towards a more proportional electoral system will ensure that all Batswana’s voices are heard in Parliament. We must also ensure that the Electoral Commission is fully independent, free from political influence.

Human Rights Protections: Strengthening human rights protections within the constitution will safeguard freedom of speech, assembly, and association, as well as ensuring minority rights are protected.

4. Institutionalizing Anti-Corruption Measures

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Frameworks: Empowering the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime to investigate senior officials and hold them accountable is critical. We must introduce laws requiring public officials to declare their assets and income.

Whistle-blower Protection: Implementing robust whistle-blower protection laws will encourage citizens and public servants to report corruption without fear of retaliation.

5. Economic and Social Justice Reforms

Labour Rights and Social Welfare: Introducing a national minimum wage, and ensuring its enforcement across sectors will provide a liveable wage for all workers as per the electoral promises.

Healthcare and Education: Ensuring equal access to quality healthcare and education, particularly in underserved areas, will reduce inequality and ensure that all Batswana, especially the youth, have the opportunities they need to thrive.

6. Environmental and Land Use Reforms

Sustainable Development Laws: Legislation is required to ensure that Botswana’s development is both sustainable and environmentally responsible, focusing on land, water, and natural resource management.

Climate Change Adaptation: Given Botswana's vulnerability to climate change, we must legislate frameworks that promote renewable energy, sustainable farming practices, and overall climate resilience.

7. Public Sector Reforms

Public Sector Accountability: Legislative reforms should aim at improving the efficiency of the public service, ensuring that government services are delivered equitably across the country, and making public servants more accountable to the citizens they serve.