Press Statement on the Botswana General Elections 16 October 2009

Batswana encouraged to responsibly exercise democratic right to vote on 16 October 2009

According to Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of the government: this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedure”.

The Constitution of Botswana and the Electoral Act guarantee human rights and recognise internationally and regionally accepted standards for democratic elections in Botswana.

Botswana’s first elections were held in March 1965. Since then Botswana has been applauded around the world for holding its regular, free, fair, credible and legitimate elections in an atmosphere of peace and stability. This is particularly significant given the often volatile backdrop against which elections have been held in a number of African countries.

As Batswana cast their votes at the polls on 16 October 2009, DITSHWANELO calls on them to recognise that they will be exercising a human right enshrined in our law and to fully exercise that right to choose representatives of their choice. Responsible exercise of the right to vote should be consciously done. Voting based on emotional factors is not responsible voting. Responsible voting is aimed towards the development of the country; a deepening of our democratic gains and a commitment to working for a better society for future generations.

We note with concern, the low turnout amongst voters outside the country.  This, despite the actual numbers who had registered to vote. It is important that all those who have registered, vote on 16 October 2009.

We call upon employers to ensure that the right of their employees to vote is respected. Appropriate arrangements should be made by employers to facilitate their staff voting on 16 October 2009.
 
DITSHWANELO would like to particularly encourage young people to cast their vote. Young people make up the majority of the population. They too have a role to play in decision-making.  As active and responsible citizens, their votes will influence the outcome of the elections and directly affect the future of Botswana.

We regret the mistakes made on the ballot papers. We note the fact that there is potential for serious inroads into the right of polling officers to vote. Due to the mistakes on the ballot papers, voting by polling officers scheduled for 29 September 2009, has had to be postponed to 16 October 2009. 
 
DITSHWANELO urges Batswana to continue to respect, promote and protect the integrity of our electoral system. This will ensure that our elections are free, fair, credible and legitimate.   

13 October 2009
Gaborone

For more information, please contact DITSHWANELO- The Botswana Centre for Human Rights at Tel: 267 390 6998, Fax: 267 390 7778, Website www.ditshwanelo.info.bw, Email: admin.ditshwanelo@info.bw/ditshwanelo-myfuturetoday@info.org.bw.