Tawana expresses fears on counter-terrorism law
Nnasaretha Kgamanyane | Tuesday August 5, 2014 12:12
He supported the bill but said that it would have been more useful if it could also deal with corruption. He urged the government to ensure that Batswana are happy by creating jobs, refraining from oppressing the poor and curbing corruption. Parliament passed the bill presented by the Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Dikgakgamatso Seretse.
The bill deals with terrorism and related offences, investigative powers and court orders, trial of terrorism offences, powers of examining officers at the points of entry into Botswana. It seeks to establish a Counter-Terrorism Analysis and Fusion Agency to coordinate intelligence operations.
Mahalapye East MP, Botlhogile Tshireletso welcomed the bill saying that Botswana has to protect itself from terrorism. She said the government must keep an eye on cult groups or religious groups such as Satanists. She said the groups gather in bushes and other places to discuss and learn bad things. She said such groups could be planning terrorism like it happens in Nigeria where Boko Haram has caused havoc.
MPs supported the bill saying that it may help deal with drug-trafficking in Botswana. They said that Botswana is regarded as the main route for drug dealers and money-laundering by other countries.
They said that if the bill becomes law, the government may find a solution to the problem.