Africa-Press – Botswana. The government of Botswana has proposed the establishment of a Constitutional Court (Concourt) as part of its human-rights-led approach to governance. Minister for State President, Defence and Security, Mr Moeti Mohwasa, emphasized that the proposed court is designed to improve access to justice and enhance constitutional protection for all citizens. The initiative is intended to provide a dedicated legal forum to safeguard human rights and ensure that citizens can exercise their constitutional freedoms effectively.
Minister Mohwasa noted that the government has been given 90 days to conduct wide consultations with various sectors on the establishment of the Concourt. These consultations will involve legal experts, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that the court reflects the needs of all Batswana. He stressed that while the current constitution serves as a national guide, it requires refinement to better protect and represent human rights, particularly for marginalized groups who often face challenges navigating complex legal systems.
“The Constitutional Court will change Batswana’s lives for the better,” Minister Mohwasa said during his address to the Gaborone City Council full council. He highlighted that the court will provide accessible legal remedies and strengthen mechanisms for holding government and institutions accountable. By focusing on human rights and legal fairness, the court is expected to bridge gaps in the current justice system and promote equality before the law.
The proposed Concourt aligns with Botswana’s broader governance reforms aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment. It is expected to serve as a specialized judicial body that can hear cases involving constitutional interpretation and human rights violations. This will reduce the burden on existing courts and provide more efficient resolution of issues that affect citizens’ fundamental freedoms.
Minister Mohwasa concluded that the creation of the Constitutional Court represents a transformative step for Botswana’s legal landscape. By ensuring that every citizen has access to justice and protection under the constitution, the initiative is set to reinforce the country’s commitment to human rights, equality, and the rule of law. The consultation process over the next 90 days will shape the final framework for the court, reflecting the needs and aspirations of the nation.
