If true, this would merely extend a pattern that has persisted for the past 58 years under Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) rule. A key factor in this dynamic has been the ruling party's historically large parliamentary majority, which allowed it to push through legislation by sheer weight of numbers. Last week's allegations by two UDC Members of Parliament, claiming they were threatened by the President and a Cabinet minister, may seem trivial at first glance. However, they highlight a serious concern — the potential erosion of parliamentary independence. Additionally, these claims could signal emerging divisions within the ruling party’s parliamentary caucus, possibly along constituent party lines. In a parliamentary democracy like Botswana, the separation of powers is crucial in ensuring good governance, accountability, and the rule of law. While the Executive (government), Legislature (Parliament), and Judiciary are distinct arms of the State, there is an inherent overlap between the Executive and the Legislature, particularly because Cabinet ministers are drawn from Parliament.
However, this overlap should not undermine the fundamental principle that Parliament must function independently to check and balance the executive. Ruling party Members of Parliament (MPs) have a dual role: they are both representatives of their party and representatives of their constituents. While it is natural for them to support the government’s policies, they must also uphold their constitutional duties, which include legislating. MPs should debate and pass laws that serve the national interest, not just the ruling party’s agenda. While party loyalty is expected, MPs must ensure that the legislation is sound, constitutional, and considers diverse perspectives, including those of the opposition and the public. MPs should also be cognizant of their other role, namely, oversight over the executive. Even ruling party MPs have a duty to scrutinise government actions, expenditures, and policies. They must ask tough questions in parliamentary committees and plenary sessions, ensuring that the Executive remains accountable to the people. Blindly defending the Executive without critical engagement undermines Parliament’s role as a watchdog. MPs should also be reminded that they are there to represent their constituents. MPs serve all their constituents, not just ruling party supporters. They must advocate for the interests and concerns of their communities, even if these concerns require holding the executive accountable. Constituents expect their MPs to be their voice, not just the government’s mouthpiece.
