South East South: Report on the Mini Launch of the Botswana Speaks Parliamentary Initiative

The South East Mini Launch took place on the 16^th April 2013, at Ramotswa Emmanuel Community Hall in Ramotswa. The Leadership that was present in the mini launch included the Member of Parliament, Hon. Odirile Motlhale, Dikgosi, VDC Secretary and Representatives from various schools.  The youth were also present from the various wards of the constituency.  In total 60 people attended this mini launch of the Botswana Speaks Parliamentary Initiative.

In his welcome remarks, the Member of Parliament, Honourable Odirile Motlhale informed the constituents that the Botswana Speaks Parliamentary Initiative is now accessible through www.botswanaspeaks.org.  He further informed them that the purpose of the platform was to improve the communication between him as a Member of Parliament and the constituents.  He further said that the platform does not in any way replace the Kgotla system but rather act as a supplementary to the existing system that has been used to raise issues as well as to comment on any bills and pieces of legislation and motions that are being discussed in Parliament.

Caption: Hon. Odirile Motlhale

The constituents said that they welcome the development as it will really help them as it’s not all of them who are able to go to the Kgotla to raise issues and said that the platform will really help in keeping in touch with their Member of the Parliament.

Caption: Attendance

The Member of Parliament informed the constituents that they are free to raise any issues.

Caption: Form left to right : District Commissioner, Kgosi (chief) from Ramotswa, Kgosi from Otse

In his closing remarks the District Commissioner encouraged the constituents especially youth to use the platform.