Marathe made the remarks recently when addressing police officers from No: 2 and No: 10 policing districts in Selebi-Phikwe and Palapye respectively during her ongoing countrywide familiarisation tour of police establishments. She pointed out that the Botswana Police Service (BPS) is an important stakeholder with crucial functions and it is expected to discharge during the run up to the elections and on polling day.
In a media release, BPS’s public relations officer Senior Superintendent, Near Bagali revealed that police Commissioner stated that it was imperative for officers to view themselves as facilitators of the democratic process and strive to deliver credible elections that Botswana is known for. The statement further stated that Marathe encouraged police officers to uphold the rule of law and avoid taking any arbitrary measures that would inhibit the exercise of citizens’ democratic rights.
Bagali added that the Commissioner further informed officers that she recently had an interview with the SADC electoral observer mission who were on a fact finding mission to establish the state of police readiness for the forthcoming polls. He said Marathe confirmed that the BPS is ready for the elections and is confident of ensuring a smooth and secure elections process.
“She noted that other bodies such as the European Union (EU), African Union (AU) and other independent observers are likely to follow suit and will have the opportunity to interact with various officers nationwide. Furthermore, Marathe advised officers to acquaint themselves with among other statutes the Electoral Act, Penal Code, Public Order Act, Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act and other statutes for democratic management of the election process and to be in a position to respond appropriately to any contending interests with fairness should the need arise,” Bagali said.
Moreover, he said the Commissioner said police officers should help protect the security and integrity of the electoral process and emphasised the need for them to conduct themselves in a professional and non partisan manner.
“She also noted that discipline will earn them respect and above all the cooperation of the citizens during the elections,” Bagali said.
