On January 28, 2025, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Dithapelo L. Keorapetse, took the Parliament to the people in Selibe-Phikwe at Kagiso Kgotla. This visit marks the second stop of his nationwide outreach initiative, following a successful session in Serowe. The event forms part of the “Taking Parliament to the People” program, which is an integral component of the Parliament’s Public Participation Model. This initiative is designed to engage directly with Batswana, educate them on the functions of Parliament, and gather valuable feedback on the nation’s legislative processes.
The “Taking Parliament to the People” program is an established tradition where the Speaker of Parliament connects with communities across the country, promoting dialogue and engagement with citizens. Past tours under this initiative have included regions such as Goodhope, Sefhare, Palapye, Tati West, Francistown South, and Nata-Gweta, with the former Speaker, Hon. Phandu T.C. Skelemani, leading the efforts in 2022.
During his address to the gathered crowd, Hon. Keorapetse outlined the three primary roles of Parliament: legislative, representative, and oversight. He emphasized how these functions are essential for maintaining peace, order, and good governance in Botswana. The Speaker also stressed that Parliament is a space where all Batswana should feel free to express their views and concerns through their elected representatives, the Area Members of Parliament. He encouraged the people of Selibe-Phikwe to actively engage with their MPs to ensure their voices are heard and their interests are effectively represented.
The Kgotla meeting in Selibe-Phikwe was well-attended, with notable figures present, including the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Helen P. Manyeneng, and Area MPs Hon. Reuben Kaizer and Hon. Kgoberego Nkawana. Also in attendance was the Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Gabriel Malebang.
Following the meeting, Hon. Keorapetse visited the constituency offices for Selibe-Phikwe East and West. These offices, which were newly opened to serve constituents after the General Elections, allow for direct engagement with residents. The Speaker took the opportunity to tour the facilities, meet with the staff, and assess the general upkeep of the offices.
The first round of the Speaker’s “Taking Parliament to the People” tour will conclude on January 29, 2025, with a visit to Mmadinare Kgotla. This initiative reflects Parliament’s ongoing commitment to fostering stronger connections between elected officials and the citizens they serve, ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in the democratic process.
