The motion was tabled by ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) legislator Polson Majaga in Parliament. When tabling his motion, Majaga called on Parliament to request government to call for a referendum on presidential elections and appointment of ministers outside Parliament.
He further said the current constitution is outdated hence the need to amend it and enhance the country’s democracy.
Debating the motion, Vice President SlumberTsogwane said he had attempted to engage Majaga in private to have the motion adjourned to allow for further consultation but Majaga rejected his request.
The result is that only six legislators agreed with Tsogwane that the motion be adjourned while 16 legislators objected. Only one Member of Parliament abstained.
Under current electoral law, Batswana only vote for MPs and the leader of the party with the majority of lawmakers indirectly becomes the country’s president.