News

University of Botswana Department of Law in partnership with Duma FM and Botswana Land Board and Local Authorities and Health Workers Union (BALLHWU) have launched a weekly radio constitutional talk.

The purpose of the conversation is to share views and ideas on the operation of the Constitution of Botswana, its strength and weaknesses as well as to enlighten the public on the constitution. Further, it is to assess the adequacy of the constitution with regard to human rights, democracy, equality, freedom and make recommendations with regard to constitutional amendments.

 The constitutional radio conversations are held weekly on Thursdays at 7pm on Duma FM. The programme is a sequel to President Mokgwetsi Masisi’s appointment of a Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Review of the Constitution of Botswana. 

Dean Faculty Social Sciences, Professor Tachilisa Balule, said UB has contributed greatly in terms of shaping the legal landscape in Botswana signified by current Chief Justice, several judges even at practitioner’s level who are making difference and impact in society.

Commenting on constitutional impact to society, Professor Balule said whether the constitution was a living document depended on those who were entrusted with the responsibilities of interpreting it.

He further said conservative courts destroyed constitutions while progressive courts made them living documents. He said Botswana’s constitution was old yet it had served the country well.

“There is no need for an entirely new constitution but it has to close existing gaps. It must make provision for worker’s rights and socio-economic rights as well as media rights to catch up with new developments,” noted Professor Balule.

For his part, BLLAHWU Secretary General, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, said advanced labour movements had a role to play in public policy, therefore it was an opportunity to participate on civic education and empowerment of people to make informed decisions as far constitutional review was concerned.