07 Jul 2024

A law on funding of political parties will be tabled during the upcoming third Meeting of the fifth Session of the 12^th Parliament.

Addressing the media following the All-Party Conference on Thursday, Minister for State President, Mr Kabo  Morwaeng said the drafting of the proposed bill was at an advanced stage and would also consider the most suitable  funding formula.

He said the bill was in the best interest of the country and would enhance democracy, adding that he was hopeful that it would be implemented before the general elections.

Minister Morwaeng expressed optimism that the bill would to be debated, passed and implemented before the general elections.

 “We are very confident that the bill will mature on time and be enacted before the general elections which are traditionally scheduled for October,” he said, adding that the time frame between the bill’s debate date and its enactment was not a challenge.

He said it was important to convene the All Party Conference to discuss the modalities of the funding in order to enhance transparency and inclusivity with the view to further strengthen the country’s democracy. “As a government representative in this matter, I wish to build a foundation of fairness for those who will come after us and to create a level field for political parties,” he said.

Minister of Finance, Ms Peggy Serame in her budget speech confirmed that government intended to introduce the fund with P34.6 million allocation to enhance the country’s democracy.

A white paper specifying the proposed funding formula suggests  20 per cent of P2 million for a seat held by a male MP and 30 per cent of P2 million for a seat held by a female MP. 

The P2 million was arrived at as it is the maximum election expense amount allowed under Section 81 of the Electoral Act.

Political parties receiving public funding would also be required to account for the use of the money to the Office of the Auditor General following the general elections. Ends