Play your part for a peaceful election

Mmegi Editor | Tuesday October 21, 2014 17:18

This election, as can be seen from the campaigns, promises to be very different from previous ones.

The high number of people who registered and the fervour with which the campaign has been running shows the seriousness with which everyone is taking the election.

 The registered voters are determined to exercise their democratic rights.

That is the right thing to do. It is only by fully participating in the electoral process that we can ensure the success of our hitherto, well-functioning democracy.

Having said that, we urge every person who registered to visit their local polling station to cast their vote. It would be a sad story for anybody who has registered to fail to vote, not because of circumstances beyond their control, but because they simply chose to be irresponsible on voting day.

Needless to say, this year’s elections come amid a generally unhappy and anxious mood in the country. There have  also been suggestions – which sadly have come from the country’s head of state – that there will be chaos if Batswana vote for the opposition. We do not know what informs the president’s declaration, but let no one stoke any violent feelings.

The IEC has said it will ensure a free and fair election. International election observers are already here. We have no doubt the police are on standby to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who attempts to disrupt elections.

 As has been the norm in all our elections, each party has its own observers to ensure there is no cheating.  Not that we expect any party to cheat, for cheating is a debased tactic of the immoral.

We, as Batswana have been known for our love for peace. This election, just like others before it, should be peaceful.

Ensuring peace however, must be the responsibility of every citizen.

How do we ensure it? By exercising political tolerance. By not trafficking ourselves or allowing ourselves to be trafficked. By respecting others – even opponents and by respecting all election rules at all times. We urge all – even those who may feel aggrieved by the outcome of the elections, not to resort to violence.

In this country, we have very capable and competent courts of law to deal with any disputes emanating from the elections. Jalo he, Batswana betsho a re yeng ditlhophong, re tlhophe ka kagiso.

                                                     Today’s thought

               “Organising free and fair elections is more important than the result itself.”

 

                                                      - Fatos Nano