Africa-Press – Botswana. Gaborone South Member of Parliament, Mr Dumezweni Mthimkhulu is hopeful that the November sitting of Parliament will consider and decide on the Constitutional Review Commission inquiry report.
Addressing a Kgotla meeting in Selemela Ward, Gaborone recently, he said they had hoped to debate the review report during the winter sitting, but could not, adding they hoped the report would be shared with Batswana for scrutiny.
He said the white paper on the report would be availed before the State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) in November.
He further noted that they promised to review the Constitution before the end of their five-year tenure.
Mr Mthimkhulu, also Assistant Minister for State President said the processes surrounding Constitutional review and COVID-19 that lasted two years contributed to the delay of the review process.
He said following the debate on the white paper, Attorney General would draft the bill, after which if some clauses needed Batswana’s input, a referendum would be initiated.
Meanwhile, Mr Mthimkhulu said Batswana were optimistic and pushing to be part of the diamond value chain development, which includes polishing, jewelry making and diamond sales.
He commended President Dr Mokgweeetsi Masisi’s boldness which led to the successful diamond negotiations with De Beers, a historic deal from 10 to 25 per cent sales agreement which was expected to bring more benefits for Batswana.
On the minimum wage, he said it was low and needed to be revised, hence cabinet had assigned Minister of Labour and Home Affairs to review the wages.
He said the Minimum Wage Advisory Board had been appointed to review the wages and the board was expected to make recommendations for cabinet to consider.
He however said for wages to increase, SMMEs interests must be factored in, adding that it was also possible for the minister to segregate wages to suit industries according to the ability to pay.
“The minister may considers fixing minimum wage for any category of employees in any trade, section of a trade, industry or section of industry,” he said.
He said mega franchise businesses would not be treated as small dealers.
Principal Roads Engineer, Mr Lucas Mpaleng said the roads ministry had disbursed funds for design of the storm water drainage masterplan.
He said lack of proper water storm drainage and blocked drainage was the cause of challenges faced by the area.
Residents raised concern that community constituency projects were not delivered as planned.
They said projects such as road paving and pothole repairs done in some areas were not adequate.
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