Opposition parties must take their role more seriously
Friday, December 13, 2019

UDC Vice President and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Dumelang Saleshando PIC: KEOAGILE BONANG
Now faced with the challenge of governing from their side of the aisle, opposition parties must recalibrate, move forward and take their role seriously as legislators.
Without a vibrant multiparty democracy with a strong opposition, the potential geopolitical and economic implications for the country are worrying. Botswana, governed since 1966 by the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) with an absolute majority, cannot afford an implosion and disorganisation of its political opposition, which has been the most prominent check (especially the last few years) on the BDP’s power.
While every citizen, including the Head of State, has the right to voice opinions, the tone and context of the President’s comments were regrettably dismissive and risk chilling free expression in our country. The remarks are not isolated. They form part of a disturbing pattern of public attacks on independent institutions pillars essential to the healthy functioning of our democracy. The Judiciary, the Legislature, and now the media have all...