Many people hoped that the new Parliament will consist of a strong contingent of backbenchers and opposition MPs. These expectations were not misplaced or unreasonable. After all, it is Parliament to which all can look up to for keeping government accountable and answerable to the concerns of the general populace. Parliament should and must act as a serious oversight organ on the excesses of the executive.
Which brings us to the recent castigation of MPs by Vice-President Mompati Merafhe, for their critical view of some aspects of President Ian Khama's methods. It is not surprising that the conservative Merafhe took exception to this. But is should be surprising and disappointing if the MPs are intimidated by his criticism. Parliament takes a break as the nation goes for the festive season but it is possible that next year, ruling party backbencher, Botsalo Ntuane will table a motion requesting a commission to review the constitution. We request MPs from all parties to support it. Do not be fooled by those who argue that if it is not broken, do not fix it because you might destroy it. We are a growing country and we cannot be paralysed by the fear of the unknown. Gaborone Central MP, Dumelang Saleshando is presenting a motion on Disclosure of Assets and Liabilities. MPs must support it irrespective of political affiliation. Put all your focus on it, critically look at it and improve on it. A Competition Bill is going through Parliament right now, critique and support it. We think it would make sense for a declaration of assets law to come into effect before a competition law. However we know the executive has its own priorities and declaration of assets legislation is the least of its concern. Thus we urge backbenchers and the opposition to push the declaration of assets law through as soon as possible.
