BOCONGO questions timing of Constitutional Court consultations

Botswana NGOs Raise Concerns Over Constitutional Court Consultations

Botswana’s civil society, represented by the Botswana Council of Non-Governmental Organizations (BOCONGO), is questioning the current consultation process for a proposed Constitutional Court. The organization suggests the timing might undermine the thoroughness of the review.

Procedural Concerns Highlighted

BOCONGO describes the ongoing discussions as potentially a “procedural formality.” Their concern centers on the sequence of events: conducting consultations on the court’s establishment before, they argue, a comprehensive understanding of its necessity and structure is fully debated.

The Proposed Constitutional Court

The consultations revolve around the Constitution (Amendment) Bill No. 14 of 2025. This legislation aims to create a dedicated Constitutional Court. This body would hold exclusive jurisdiction over interpreting, protecting, and enforcing the nation’s constitution.

Supporters view this proposed court as a vital step. They believe it would significantly enhance the judiciary’s role in upholding the supreme law of Botswana, ensuring constitutional matters receive specialized attention.