MPs' workshop anticipated to improve Parliament overseeing roles

Veteran British MP Sir Malcom Bruce is the facilitator of the workshop, which started yesterday and is expected to end today. Addressing the legislators before knuckling down to business, Bruce said the relative "youth" of the Botswana Parliament is an advantage, as it can learn from the mistakes of older Parliaments. Bruce said being a leader is a challenging role.

He cautioned legislators from being "glib" about issues that affect members of the public. He urged legislators to distinguish between power and influence. He said that while the party with the majority seats in Parliament holds power, those in the minority hold influence and should not be cowed from using their influence.