16 Oct 2014

The Southern District commissioner, Mr Moses Gaealafswe, has advised presiding and polling officers to manage elections effectively.

The district commissioner was addressing presiding and polling officers during a workshop in Kanye on October 15. He said elections were sensitive and it is therefore critical for all election officials to be competent on the electoral procedures and processes to ensure efficiency and adherence. 

Mr Gaealafswe indicated that Botswana had been conducting free and fair elections in the previous elections, therefore appealing to those who will be conducting elections to be careful, adding that they have observed that in some countries elections brings civil wars, murdering of innocent people and destruction of infrastructures.

He said Botswana elections are conducted in accordance with the electoral law which comprises the constitution of Botswana. He told them that the provisions of these statutes must be followed to the letter to ensure impartiality and fairness in the delivery of elections.

He advised them to consult returning officers if they have situations during the elections. He said they should facilitate the comprehension and internalization of the electoral law, particularly the electoral act, which gives the step by step procedure of conducting elections.

The commissioner urged them to work cooperatively with electorates and candidates and they should be alert all the time to deliver free and fair elections which is expected by all Batswana. ENDS