Keorapetse: A fair, honest Speaker
Friday, January 10, 2025 | 760 Views |
Keorapetse. PIC PHATSIMO KAPENG
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.
Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...