Mmegi

Keorapetse: A fair, honest Speaker

Keorapetse. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG
Keorapetse. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG

Contrary to widespread assumptions that Dithapelo Keorapetse, a former Member of Parliament and now Speaker of the National Assembly, might exhibit bias or favouritism in Parliament, he has demonstrated remarkable impartiality.

Keorapetse has surprised many by upholding fairness and integrity in his role as Speaker of the House. Despite his departure from the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), a split that occurred when the party withdrew from the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), his previous affiliation has not influenced his parliamentary rulings. Many held the notion that he would show favouritism towards the UDC members, given that he contested his parliamentary seat under the coalition at Selebi-Phikwe West and lost.

However, Keorapetse has proven otherwise, fearlessly holding the UDC members accountable and correcting them when necessary. Part of Keorapetse's prowess in directing parliamentary proceedings can be apportioned to his background in political science and public administration. He also has experience as a political science lecturer at the University of Botswana. His deep understanding of parliamentary Standing Orders, combined with thorough research, has earned him respect across the political spectrum. On several occasions, he has had to guide party members, particularly Cabinet Ministers, who are still gaining confidence in responding to parliamentary questions.

Editor's Comment
Public servants deserve better than union infighting

‘The strongest bond of human sympathy outside the family relation should be one uniting working people of all nations and tongues and kindreds’.- Abraham LincolnUntil then, the Council’s operations remain suspended, delaying critical decisions affecting thousands of public sector employees.The current standoff is between the Manual Workers Union on one side and the Six Cooperating Trade Unions, namely BONU, BOPEU, BTU, BDU, BOSETU and...

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