Africa-Press – Botswana. Calls for Ntlo Ya Dikgosi (House of Chiefs) to be renamed the House of Representatives have been made by some Batswana who speak at the first commission of inquiry on constitutional review consultation meeting in Tlokweng.
Different speakers at the kgotla meeting believe that if Ntlo Ya Dikgosi is renamed to House of Representatives, the move would allow room for other tribes to be represented.
The speakers believe that the current setup closes other tribes out of full representation in Ntlo Ya Dikgosi, creating a breeding ground for animosity amongst other ethnic groups.
“We want other tribes to be inclusive of the Constitution so that they know that we are all equal,” Michael Gaborone said.
“The situation will help other tribes to view their concerns at that house. Currently, some tribes are not happy with the setup of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi and believe that they are not represented and the Constitution exclude them.”
Another speaker, Meshack Benggae also said it is time dikgosi are given certain powers, unlike the current situation where they seem to be powerless.
“I believe that if dikgosi are given powers, then they will be able to be in control of their tribes. Some youth will also start to respect their parents. Again it is time all languages are embraced,” he commented.
On other issues, Benggae said former presidents should be given certain roles in the society so that they keep being relevant to avoid situations where there is a clash of powers while trying to be relevant.
Still, on the matter, Gosenyang Gosenyang said it is time the Constitution prohibits dikgosi from partisan politics or if they want to fully participate then they should leave the position.
“Gongwe dikgosi difiwe sebaka sa two years go tlogela bogosi ebo ele gone ba yang dipolotiking. All tribes must be represented in Ntlo Ya Dikgosi. Only the Constitution can call for that so that it becomes mandatory,” Gosenyang said.
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