Deft hand needed in Societies Bill debate
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Offences include operating an illegal society, soliciting collections while operating an illegal society and allowing an illegal society to operate on your premises. In addition, foreigners registering religious organisations in Botswana will be required to prove that at least two thirds of their membership are Batswana and resident in Botswana.
The State says the amendments are primarily to update the 43 year old law in recognition of the larger population of religious organisations as well as the sinister ‘mushrooming’ of churches led by charismatic foreign leaders, which in some cases are suspected to be swindling Batswana.
Their concerns highlight the need for meaningful dialogue between government and relevant stakeholders to ensure the best interests of the country are served.This was in addition to other voices from opposition politicians and civil society organisations.The stance underscores the importance of citizen participation in the constitutional amendment process. The AFM rightly assert that such weighty matters demand thorough discussions to reflect the...