Mixed reactions to Geoscience Bill
Friday, May 30, 2014
The objective of the Geoscience Bill is to provide for the establishment of the Botswana Geoscience Institute for the purpose of undertaking research in the field of geosciences and provide specialised geoscience services, empower the institute to be the custodian of geoscience information; promoting the search and exploration of minerals in Botswana, to act as an advisory body in respect of geohazards and for matters incidental thereto.
Clause 6, Sub section 3 of the Bill states that the Board will consist of eight members, appointed by the Minister from amongst persons whom the minister considers qualified by reason of their experience or expertise in the areas relevant to the functions of the Institution.
As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...