Botswana's government establishes constitutional court despite public's hesitation

President Duma Boko has pushed through one of the most consequential legal reforms in Botswana’s recent history, with Parliament approving the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2025, despite clear and sustained public unease over its timing. Backed by ruling Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) legislators, the Bill sailed through yesterday with a commanding majority, cementing Boko’s determination to establish a Constitutional Court (ConCourt), even as voices from across the country called for a pause. [ . . . ] For weeks, nationwide consultations revealed a consistent message from Batswana, which was not outright rejection of the ConCourt, but deep concern over its timing. Citizens spoke candidly about medicine shortages, crumbling roads, and under-resourced schools. Many questioned how a government that repeatedly cites empty coffers could justify the cost of a new court system. Yet despite these concerns, the Bill has now become law. The speed and determination with which the legislation moved forward have left some questioning whether public input truly shaped the outcome or merely fulfilled a procedural requirement.
Read the full article here: Mmegi Online