Botswana
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Comments: The Judicial Service Commission appoints a Delimitation Commission (DC) consisting of a chair and up to four other members. The DC is not subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority in the exercise of its functions. The DC reports to the President and constituencies are redemarked every 5-10 years.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, 64; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 06:48:49 UTC
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
c. Compactness of constituencies
d. Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
e. Geographic size of district
f. Communities of interest/cultural concerns
g. Other
Comments: Means of communication and density of population
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 65; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:55:25 UTC
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
c. Boundary Commission
Comments: The Delimitation Commission submit a report to the President which shall state if any alteration is necessary to the boundaries of the constituencies.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, 65;[www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:55:25 UTC
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Mr. Brian G. Eaton
b. Job Title: Legal Officer
c. Organisation: Independent Electoral Commission, Botswana
d. Contact Address. Private Bag 00284, Gaborone, Botswana
e. Telephone: +267 3612400 / 3911261
f. Facsimile: +267 3900581 / 3905205 / 3190889
g. Email: beaton@gov.mw; bgeaton@hotmail.com
Comments: Information also checked and updated by the Secretary Mr. T.G.G.G. Seeletso, Independent Electoral Commission, tseeletso@gov.bw.
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:32:27 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
a. Mandatory referendum
Comments: Section 89 (4) of the Constitution reads: "In so far as it alters any of the provisions mentioned in subsection (3) (b) of this section no Bill shall be presented to the President for his assent unless after its passage by the Assembly it has been submitted to the electors qualified to vote in the election of the Elected Members of the National Assembly, and, on a vote taken in such manner as Parliament may prescribe, the majority of the electors voting have approved the Bill." Section 3 of the Referendum Act reads: "Where under any law, any matter is required to be submitted to a vote of the electors qualified to vote in the election of the Elected Members of the National Assembly for approval by a majority of them, it shall be submitted in accordance with the provisions of this Act."
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Comments: Section 89 (4) of the Constitution reads: "In so far as it alters any of the provisions mentioned in subsection (3) (b) of this section no Bill shall be presented to the President for his assent unless after its passage by the Assembly it has been submitted to the electors qualified to vote in the election of the Elected Members of the National Assembly, and, on a vote taken in such manner as Parliament may prescribe, the majority of the electors voting have approved the Bill.” Section 3 of the Referendum Act reads: “Where under any law, any matter is required to be submitted to a vote of the electors qualified to vote in the election of the Elected Members of the National Assembly for approval by a majority of them, it shall be submitted in accordance with the provisions of this Act."
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:41:36 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:41:36 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:41:36 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:41:36 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
a. Constitutional
b. Specific laws/legislation
Comments: The Referendum Act as a whole applies to the conduct and supervision (administration) of such elections. Section 65A (12)(a) of the Constitution states that the Independent Electoral Commission "shall be responsible for the conduct and supervision of elections of the Elected Members of the National Assembly and members of a local authority, and conduct of a referendum".
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, section 65A (12)(c) and section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:41:36 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:43:38 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:43:38 UTC
DD100 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD101 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD102 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a referendum?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD103 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD104 What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD105 Who is responsible for checking the signatures?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD106 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a referendum?
a. Agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms
Comments: The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has assumed responsibility for general voter education although voter education is not specifically mentioned (in section 65A (12)) as one of the responsibilities of the Commission.
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, section 65A (dealing with the appointment, responsibilities, etc. of the Independent Electoral Commission) and section 66 (dealing with the appointment, resposibilities, etc. of the Secretary to Independent Electoral Commission).
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:52:49 UTC
DD107 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:53:29 UTC
DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:53:29 UTC
DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
c. Radio broadcasts
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
f. Website
g. Other(specify)
Comments: g) Workshops, publication of manuals, discussions, kgotla meetings, voter education materials. Undertaken by the Independent Electoral Commission Secretariat in conjunction with media houses, consultants, NGOs and, in some instances, political and religous leaders.
Source: IEC Botswana: "Civic and Voter Education Strategy Draft Outline" and its "Civic and Voter Education Curriculum" - part of "The Road to the 2004 General Elections".
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:43:38 UTC
DD110 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
i. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:59:09 UTC
DD111 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
i. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:59:09 UTC
DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
g. None
Comments: The Referendum Act does not have provisions dealing with any of these matters.
Source: The Referendum Act, Chapter 02:10
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:00:15 UTC
DD113 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:00:41 UTC
DD114 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:00:41 UTC
DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:02:14 UTC
DD116 What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:02:14 UTC
DD117 What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:02:14 UTC
DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. No campaign organisations
Comments: The Referendum Act does not have provisions dealing with any of these issues.
Source: The Referendum Act, Chapter 02:10
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:02:14 UTC
DD119 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:03:24 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:43:38 UTC
DD120 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:03:24 UTC
DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
f. None
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:03:24 UTC
DD122 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:03:24 UTC
DD123 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:03:24 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
b. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD125 Is the government permitted to campaign either in favour of or against any specific outcome to a referendum, initiatives or recall vote?
a. Yes
Comments: There is no legal prohibition on Government campaigning.
Source: The Referendum Act, Chapter 02:10
Last updated: 2006-10-17 15:06:54 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:32:27 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1966
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4)
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:44:53 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
a. Mandatory referendum 1987
Comments: a) With he enactment of the Referendum Act. Section 89 (4) of the Constitution requires a referendum in certain circumstances, but the law for the conduct of such referendum was only enacted in 1987.
Source: The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
b. Independent electoral commission
Comments: Section 65A (12)(a) of the Constitution states that the Independent Electoral Commission "shall be responsible for the conduct and supervision of elections of the Elected Members of the National Assembly and members of a local authority, and conduct of a referendum".
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 65A (12)(a)
Last updated: 2006-10-17 12:53:18 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
a. Yes
Comments: Section 65A (12)(a) of the Constitution states that the Independent Electoral Commission "shall be responsible for the conduct and supervision of elections of the Elected Members of the National Assembly and members of a local authority, and conduct of a referendum".
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 65A (12)(a)
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:02:28 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: c) Botswana is a unitary state.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:04:48 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: c) Botswana is a unitary state.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:04:48 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: c) Botswana is a unitary state.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:04:48 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: c) Botswana is a unitary state.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:04:48 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: c) Botswana is a unitary state.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:04:48 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Comments: A referendum can only be called at the national level.
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:06:50 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:06:50 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:06:50 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:06:50 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:06:50 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
a. Constitutional amendments
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:08:56 UTC
DD28 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
k. None
Comments: Before the President can assent to the Bill (passed by Parliament) to amend certain entrenched provisions listed in the section 89 (3)(b).
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (3)(b) and(4)
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:10:47 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
k. None
Comments: Although section 3 of the Referendum Act states that "Where under any law, any matter is required to be submitted to the vote of the electors...", section 89 (4) of the Constitution is presently the only one requiring a referendum.
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:15:49 UTC
DD30 Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
e. None
Comments: e) Referendums are only held at the national level.
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:17:09 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
d. Legislative majority
Comments: Although the President issues a writ of referendum (in terms of section 5 of the Referendum Act), in terms of section 89 (3)(ii) of the Constitution a Bill that is to be submitted to a referendum under section 89 (4) must have been "supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the Members of the [National] Assembly".
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 5
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:19:48 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
c. President
Comments: Section 5 of the Referendum Act states that the President shall issue the writ of referendum which, inter alia, sets out the "matter on which the poll is to be taken".
Source: The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 5
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:22:00 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:24:59 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
d. The full text of the proposal
Comments: Section 4 of the Referendum Act states that: "The matter requiring the approval of the majority of the electors shall be submitted in the form of a question requiring an affirmative or negative reply and shall, where it is an amendment to any law, contain a full text of the proposed amendment."
Source: The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 4
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:24:59 UTC
DD35 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the optional referendum question?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:28:18 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
c. President
Comments: Section 5 of the Referendum Act states that the President shall issue the writ of referendum which, inter alia, sets out the "matter on which the poll is to be taken".
Source: The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 5
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:28:18 UTC
DD37 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:29:47 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
c. No quorum required x
Source: The Constitution, section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-18 12:15:28 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
d. Not applicable x
Last updated: 2006-10-18 12:15:28 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
a. Simple majority (>50%)
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:54:39 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:54:39 UTC
DD42 In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election?
Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
g. None
Comments: Regulatory provisions are the same for a referendum as for a national election.
Source: The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10; The Electoral Act Chapter 02:09
Last updated: 2006-10-17 13:59:28 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
a. Always
Comments: In terms of section 33 (1) of the Referendum Act, the Secretary must notify the Clerk of the National Assembly of the results of the referendum and publish the results in the Government Gazette.
Source: The Constitution of Botswana, Section 89 (4); The Referendum Act of the Laws of Botswana, Chapter 02:10 section 3 and section 33
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:02:29 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:02:29 UTC
DD45 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD46 Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD47 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD48 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
l. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD49 Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD50 Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative?
Please specify in the “Comments” section below.
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD51 What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD52 Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD53 Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD54 Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
h. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD55 Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD56 Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD57 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
f. Other (specify)
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD58 If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD59 Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens’ initiative?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD60 At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD61 What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD62 When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD64 Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD65 Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
k. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD66 What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:06:29 UTC
DD67 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to the time period in which an individual/position can be recalled?
b. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD68 If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:28:59 UTC
DD69 When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:28:59 UTC
DD70 If a separate ballot to replace an individual who has been recalled takes place, how soon after the recall ballot is it held?
b. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD71 Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:40:16 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD73 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD74 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a citizens' initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD75 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an agenda initiative?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD76 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-10-17 14:49:11 UTC
DD77 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD78 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD79 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD80 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD81 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD82 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD83 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD84 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for a recall?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable X
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD85 What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
c. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD86 What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD87 Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD88 Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD89 Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD90 Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD91 Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD92 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD93 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD94 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD95 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD96 What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
DD97 What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2006-11-30 15:44:25 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Independent Electoral Commission
b. Full Address Private Bag 00284, Gaborone, Botswana
c. Telephone +267 3612400
d. Facsimile +267 3900581/ +267 3905205
e. Email iecwebmaster@gov.bw
f. Website Address http://www.iec.gov.bw/
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Justice John Z. Mosojane
h. Information Officer The Secretary
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections English
Source: Independent Electoral Commission's official web site, [www] http://www.iec.gov.bw/.
Last updated: 2007-09-27 14:21:17 UTC
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
a. National level
c. Local level
Comments: In the Amendment Act from 1997, it says that the Commission shall be responsible for the conduct and supervision of elections of the elected members of the National Assembly and members of the local authority, and conduct of referendums.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 65A(12); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:51:53 UTC
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
Comments: The budget is determined by Parliament. The Electoral Commission is funded by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.
Source: Charles G. Mokobi, Former Deputy Secretary, Independent Electoral Commission of Botswana, tel. +267 361 2400, fax +267 300 581
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 14:37:59 GMT
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
g. Other
Comments: The national electoral management body fully administers its budget subject to audit by the Auditor General. The Auditor General does not give directions but controls that the budget is transparent.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 06:43:51 UTC
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: The term of office of the Commission is the period of two successive terms of Parliament, namely 10 years. The Secretary shall vacate his/her post upon reaching 65 years of age, or such other age as may be prescribed by an Act of Parliament.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 65A(12),66(7); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:52:53 UTC
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 3421900
b. Exchange rate used 19,000,000BWP=3421900 USD
Comments: 3 421 900 USD (1 USD = 5,55 BWP)
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:01:06 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 459662
Last updated: 2008-01-21 13:01:06 UTC
EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?
a. USD/registered voter 7.5
b. Exchange rate used 1BWP=0,178US$
Last updated: 2007-09-11 09:02:10 UTC
EM11 What are the approximate proportions (%) of total election expenditure for the last national elections devoted to the following?
a. Voter registration and preparation of voter lists 10%
b. Election Management Body administration 58%
c. Staff/Equipment/Supplies 99%
d. Security 8%
e. Official funding of parties and candidates NIL
f. Voter education 94%
g. Materials/systems for and operation of voting stations and ballot counts 58%
h. Challenges, dispute resolution and legal costs NIL
i. Polling operations 58%
j. Vote tabulation Not Clear
Last updated: 2007-09-11 09:02:10 UTC
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
a. Head of State is the Head of Government
d. Indirectly elected by legislature
Comments: The President is elected by every newly elected National Assembly to serve a five year term.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 30, 32, 42;[www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:18:10 UTC
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
c. Indirectly elected by legislature/chosen by parliament
Comments: The Head of Government (President) is elected by every newly elected National Assembly to serve a five year term.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 32; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:57:45 UTC
ES03 Does the country have a president?
a. Yes
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 30; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:58:25 UTC
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers
Comments: Parliament consists of the President and the National Assembly. The House of Chiefs must be consulted on certain legislation.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 57, 85, 88(2); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:02:39 UTC
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
a. Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The National Assembly has 61 elected seats; 57 members are directly elected by universal adult suffrage, and 4 members are indirectly elected by the National Assembly from a list of candidates submitted by the President. The President and the Attorney General are ex officio members of the Assembly and the life of the Assembly is five years. The Speaker may be elected from outside the House.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 58, 91(3); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:18:10 UTC
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na
Last updated: Thu, 09 May 2002 21:48:11 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
a. Part of Constitution
b. Separate legislation
Comments: These are: Constitution of Botswana 1966; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf. Electoral Act 1968, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:50:52 UTC
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
c. Local elections
Comments: Referenda are governed by the Referendum Act of 1987 while rural local elections (District Councils) are governed by the Local Government (District Councils) Act (CHAPTER 40:01).
Last updated: 2007-09-27 14:19:35 UTC
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 7; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:50:52 UTC
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
Comments: Election petitions are heard by the High Court. Petitions must be submitted within 30 days of the announcement of the result disputed. If petitions are withdrawn the costs devolve on the petitioner.
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 119, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:50:52 UTC
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: T. Seeletso
b. Job Title: Secretary
c. Organisation: "Independent Electoral Commission
d. Contact Address: The Secretary, Independent Electoral Commission, Private bag 00284, Gaborone, Botswana
e. Telephone: 00 267 361 2400
f. Facsimile: 00 267 39 00 581
g. Email: tseeletso@gov.bw
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:32:52 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
h. Not applicable
Comments: The law does not specify.
Last updated: 2007-09-27 10:10:31 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising
Last updated: 2007-09-11 12:39:46 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
a. Yes, in presidential elections
b. Yes, in legislative elections
Last updated: 2007-09-11 12:43:19 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
Last updated: 2006-11-30 08:29:12 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: The the registration process in Botswana is both easy and quick. Application for registration must be made with the Registrar of Societies within 28 days of establishment or of the adoption of the constitution or of rules, regulations or by-laws. before processing an application the Registrar may require of the party additional information deemed necessary for the consideration of the application.
Source: Societies Act 1987, 6(1)-(4)
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:25:44 UTC
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Comments: Parties are not represented in the House of Chiefs.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 77-79; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:04:52 UTC
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
d. Residence
f. Registration
i. Minimum level of literacy
Comments: a. The candidate must attain an age of 18 years i. The candidate must be able to speak and, unless incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause, to read English enough to take active part in the proceedings of the Assembly.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 61; [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:04:52 UTC
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
f. Registration
i. Minimum level of literacy
Comments: a. Must 21 years old or older i. The candidate must be able to speak and, unless incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause, to read English enough to take active part in the proceedings of the House of Chiefs. j.)Of 15 seats are 8 distributed to the chiefs of 8 designated tribes, 4 are elected sub-chiefs and 3 members are selected by the other 12 members.
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 79(4);[www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:04:52 UTC
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
e. In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments: In principle an independent candidate can compete for presidency but normally the person who becomes President is the one whose party's parliamentary candidates have a majority of parliamentary seats. This is because the President is elected indirectly by parliament.
Source: Molobe, Ennie, Parliament of Botswana, emolobe(a)gov.bw
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 15:09:13 GMT
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
a. No
Comments: No public funding of political parties.
Last updated: 2007-09-27 09:45:50 UTC
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
f. Not applicable
Comments: No public funding of political parties.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:04:52 UTC
Vote Counting
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
c. At special counting centres
Comments: After the close of the poll, ballot boxes are sealed by the Presiding Officer, as well as by the candidates or their election agents, and sent to the returning officer.
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 65(1)-(4), [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:06:31 UTC
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
e. Court order
Comments: Election petitions are heard by the High Court. Petitions must be submitted within 30 days of the announcement of the result disputed. If petitions are withdrawn the costs devolve on the petitioner.
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 75-77, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf..
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:07:00 UTC
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
Comments: Although the IEC is not tasked by law with voter education,the IEC has set civic and voter education as one of its four goals.
Source: IEC UNDATED "IEC Commissioners" [www] http://www.iec.gov.bw/profile.html
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:56:43 UTC
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
a. Continuously
Source: Charles G. Mokobi, Deputy Secretary, Independent Electoral Commission of Botswana, interview in Stockholm, 020701
Last updated: Mon, 09 Jul 2001 14:16:11 GMT
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
b. Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body
Comments: Although the IEC is not tasked by law with voter education the IEC has set civic and voter education as one of its four goals.
Source: IEC UNDATED "IEC Commissioners" [www] http://www.iec.gov.bw/profile.html
Last updated: 2007-09-28 08:57:28 UTC
Voting Operations
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 30, 30A, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:03:27 UTC
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Comments: All citizens qualified to exercise the franchise, who are registered to vote and abroad on election day are entitled to vote
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 32, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:02:56 UTC
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
a. Embassies
b. Consulates
c. Special polling stations
Comments: The requirement for a polling station to be established abroad is a minimum of 50 residents from Botswana living in that area.
Source: Charles G. Mokobi, Former Deputy Secretary, Independent Electoral Commission of Botswana, tel. +267 361 2400, fax +267 300 581
Last updated: Thu, 30 May 2002 15:19:42 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
a. Yes, the maximum capacity is: 600
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:04:45 UTC
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Source: Electoral Act 1968, 54(d), [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:03:27 UTC
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 5
b. The largest polling station: 10
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:04:45 UTC
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 67(1)(a);[www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:02:11 UTC
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
b. Period of Residence
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Section 67(1)(c); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf. Electoral Act 1968, 8A, [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Electoral Act 1968.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 09:02:11 UTC
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
d. Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: Independent Electoral Commission
Source: Constitution of Botswana 1966, Article 65A(12); [www] http://aceproject.org/ero-en/Constituition of Botswana 1966.pdf.
Last updated: 2007-09-28 07:47:19 UTC
May 20, 2008 07:18 AM
