The Republic of Botswana

The Republic of Botswana gained independence from the UK on 30September 1966. It is a parliamentary republic where the president is both chief of state and head of the government.

The country has a multiparty system operating in a constitutional democracy. So far elections in the country have been held regularly and conducted freely. It can be said that it is a politically stable country because of its political past rooted in Setswana, a tribal tradition. It is also one of the least corrupt countries in the African continent.

The president is selected from the National Assembly, who in turn selects his own cabinet. He serves for 5 years and may be re-elected for another term.

What differentiates the country from others is the presence in the legislative branch an advisory House of Chiefs representing the tribal groups of the country. The House of Chiefs gives advice on any proposed laws that concern tribal customs and welfare.

The legislative branch or the National Assembly is composed of 57 elected officials and 4 appointed members. Like most western countries, the judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches of government. The judicial branch is concerned with the civil and criminal jurisdiction. The judges are appointees of the president.

The basis of the relative success of democracy in the country may be that of the Setswana tradition whereby group, family or tribal responsibilities come first before individual rights. This is practised in the village council which determines the powers of the leaders, according to existing laws and tribal customs.

The current president is Seretse Khama Ian Khama and the vice-president is Mompati Merafhe. They assumed office on 1 April 2008.