While previous Presidents had the same constitutional power at their disposal, the current President uses it to drive an agenda only best known to him and his ruling Botswana Democratic Party. The Botswana Constitution is like a loaded gun, which when left with a madman, can be used to shoot at everyone in sight. Manual Workers Union have to be applauded for their bold move. In addition to improving their members’ working and living conditions, they are also playing a watchdog role, providing checks and balances to all arms of government. As a results they have deflated the misconception that trade unions and other civil society organisations (CSO) only deal with their primary mandate. It is necessary and mandatory for CSOs to provide checks and balances across the governance sphere to ensure adherence to the rule of law, accountability, consultation and other democratic principles. Failure to provide such checks and balances is abdication of societal responsibility, leading to poor governance. It therefore cannot be accepted for CSOs to claim apolitical when the country is run down by politicians like the President and his Executive, in this instance.
President Ian Khama has abused several prerogatives which he is apparently empowered by the Constitution. He has refused professional advice from the Judicial Services Commission and has single handedly appointed Judges of his own choice. He has abused the prerogative of mercy by releasing convicted Kalafatis assassins amidst public outcry insinuations that the convicts were allegedly following presidential orders when they committed their unlawful act. The Francistown West 2013 Parliamentary by-election was postponed by Office of the President through a fraudulent petition signed by, among others, dead people. The by- elections were postponed despite protests from opposition parties because the Presidency had the Constitution on its side. Investigations into the matter have been stalled and the BDP activist involved has since been rewarded with a council appointment.
