BPS meets political party representatives on election preparedness
Near Bagali | Tuesday October 29, 2024 09:47
Welcoming political party representatives, Marathe commended them for demonstrating a high level of collaboration and stewardship, culminating in a smooth provision of security during political party activities, even beyond the issuance of election writ and facilitation of the presidential authentication/nomination process, amongst other things. She noted that the continuous engagement between the Botswana Police Service (BPS) and political parties across all levels bring hope that the upcoming General Election will be secure and peaceful.
Marathe observed that parties should sensitise their followers on the Electoral Act, the importance of cooperating with the Police, and adherence to laws governing the conduct of elections for a smooth process. She underscored the need for the BPS and party leadership to work harmoniously before and on the polling day, as this would reinforce Botswana’s democratic credentials. She informed the political party representatives that the BPS is ready to deliver safe and secure elections, adding that they will ensure a conducive environment, allowing all the registered citizens to exercise their democratic voting rights without any hindrance. She assured Batswana that security would be provided to all electorate, election officers, party agents, accredited election observer missions, the general public, and all election materials. Commissioner Marathe said police officers will be deployed at all polling stations and counting centres. She said police officers have been adequately capacitated on the Electoral Act and other applicable legislation. She emphasised that the Botswana Police Service remains apolitical and stands ready to observe human rights and the rule of law before and during elections.
She further noted that the BPS had already set the tone of peaceful, safe and secure elections during a meeting with the SADC electoral observation mission recently, and assured them of their security and protection throughout their stay in Botswana. For their part, political party representatives applauded the Commissioner for the fruitful, continuous engagement that has helped allay fears and uncertainties about the preparations and ultimate elections. They noted that the presence of police officers at polling and counting centres brings a sense of security and comfort. The representatives assured the Commissioner of their collaboration and engagement with the BPS leadership, and that they would be ready to resolve issues that might arise before and during the polling day amicably. The meeting was the second as election day gets closer.
* NEAR BAGALI is managing editor of Botswana Police newsletter