Automatic Succession: AG statement

1. I have found it necessary in view of recent misleading press reports, and their potential to create confusion and uncertainty in the minds of the public, to release a statement on the Government’s position regarding the constitutional provisions applicable to succession to the office of President of the Republic of Botswana.

2. Before the coming into effect of the Constitution (Amendment) Act No 16 of 1997, the provisions relating to a vacancy in the office of President were contained in section 35 of the Constitution, which provided in the relevant sections as follows: