03 Jun 2024

As part of the third arm of government, lawyers have been urged to make their voice heard on issues of national interest, especially political issues.

The advice was rendered by Chancellor of the University of Botswana, Dr Tebelelo Seretse recently during the Law Society of Botswana (LSB) chairperson’s gala dinner in Gaborone.

Dr Seretse informed the gathering that failure to contribute to issues of national interest would play a hand in condemning the country to lower standards in governance.

“Your voice should not just be confined to national issues, but even international issues, lest we risk becoming just another African country,” she said.

Dr Seretse said there was a point in the past when Botswana’s voice was always sought  after on international matters, something which she said should be resuscitated.

She said the voice of law professionals was vital in keeping executive in check, otherwise important national matters would only be decided by a few in the executive.

She also urged them to guard against any infiltration of the judiciary by  political powers.

“You should protect this republic with your lives and souls. Judicial independence comes with trustworthiness, otherwise you will be lacking,” she said.

For his part, the chairperson of LSB, Mr Osego Garebamono said the society was tasked with ensuring professional standards and integrity were upheld.

He therefore, urged practitioners to fulfill the mandate.

“Let’s strive for excellence in our work and protect its integrity,” he said. Mr Garebamono said it was a good thing for  practitioners to have gathered and interact.

LSB vice chairperson, Mr Mboki Chilisa urged practitioners to always strive for excellence, which he said was the hallmark of integrity.

He said such integrity would ensure that all litigants have equal chances at success, hence reduce disputes. ENDS