Constitutional government and human rights in Botswana

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Periodical article

Title:	Constitutional government and human rights in Botswana
Author:	Mbao, M.L.M.
Year:	1990
Periodical:	Lesotho Law Journal: A Journal of Law and Development
Volume:	6
Issue:	1
Pages:	179-206
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Botswana
Subjects:	constitutions human rights
Abstract:	Botswana is one of the few countries in Africa with a relatively stable and functioning multiparty democracy and an enviable human rights record. The author argues that Botswana's liberal democracy and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are anchored in the foundations of the Tswana traditional polity, which emphasized the devolution of governing authority to local political units and popular participation in decisionmaking processes. The article first describes the basic framework of government under the constitution, adopted at independence in 1966, dealing with the executive, legislative, and judicial powers and showing that in Botswana these powers are separated. Then it turns to democracy at the local level, paying attention to the traditional 'kgotla' system, which still functions. Finally, the protection of human rights in Botswana is treated. Notes, ref.