Debating the consolidated funds for IEC, MPs argued that the fact that general elections will be held this year means that the IEC should get more and not less funding. The Minister of Works, Transport and Communications Tebelelo Seretse argued that the amount deducted from the P45 million could be used for voter education. She added that a lot of people are still behind in civic matters and voter education is needed. She said that after every general election, the results should be checked to see if the money is spent for a worthwhile cause.
The MP for Moshupa Maitlhoko Mooka said that the reduction of the IEC budget might affect the general elections. He suggested that the day for voting be changed from Saturday to Sunday to cater for Seventh Day Adventist Church members. He said pregnant women and the disabled should be allowed to vote first before the elections proper.
But the MP for Gaborone West Robert Molefhabangwe said the voting day is not an issue. He countered that there are people who go to church on Sunday. He suggested that the general elections be held during the week and that the voting day be declared a holiday. Earlier on, he had suggested that because of the increase in the number of constituencies, voting should not be for one day as is currently the case.
Presidential Affairs and Public Administration Assistant Minister Olifant Mfa said there is still more to be done in voter education and the question of logistics brought because of the increased constituencies. He said all these demand the commitment of substantial resources, both human and financial. He revealed that the proposed IEC Act is receiving active consideration.
