Africa-Press – Botswana. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in Francistown has completed consultation on the demarcation of polling stations and has handed its report to the IEC.
Addressing members of the Party Liaison Committee (PLC) on Wednesday, Francistown-based Principal Election Officer, Ms Claire Malikongwa, said the report was handed to the IEC Secretary last week. The PLC comprises formations such as representatives of various church denominations, Department of Civil and National Registration, Tribal Administration, as well as youth and women’s organisations.
The meeting was called to upraise PLC members on the electoral processes and preparations for the 2024 general election.
Ms Malikongwa said the final list of polling stations will be gazetted after the IEC Secretary has consolidated the report. She said her office was now preparing for the voter registration exercise, and has embarked on an outreach programme to sensitise the public about the 2024 general elections.
She explained that the registration dates will be published after the IEC has made a determination. She also disclosed that due to amendments in the electoral law, this time voters will be required to provide phone numbers, while those who reside on campuses will be expected to state their room numbers.
Ms Malikongwa stated that recruitment of staff for the registration exercise will be done towards the last quarter of the year, and advised the public to ensure that their national identity cards are valid, as expired ones will not be accepted.
Principal Registration Clerk, Mr Lungelo Mhotsha, advised Batswana to consider renewing their national identity cards three months before the actual expiry date.
Responding to Ms Malikongwa’s appeal for cooperation with her office in order to deliver a credible and fair election in 2024, Pastor John Ramotshabi of the Christ International Fellowship said the PLC was prepared to strengthen and promote Botswana’s democracy.
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