25 Aug 2024

As Botswana heads to the polls, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is expected to use the iconic voters’ ink, also known as indelible ink, which is considered a powerful symbol of a functioning democracy.

The indelible ink is used to guard against multiple voting during elections and on the day that Batswana go to the polls, the iconic symbol is expected to be highly visible.

This follows the passing of the stages of scrutiny by legislators and ultimate approval of the Electoral Amendment Bill, which was presented before Parliament on Thursday under certificate of urgency to amend the Electoral Act, by Minister for State President, Honourable Kabo Morwaeng.

Minister Morwaeng said the amendment of the Electoral Act was aimed at promoting transparency and credibility in the electoral process.

Thus, section 54 of the Electoral Act is set to be amended to allow for voters to be marked after satisfying the requirements of the Act.

“Marking of the voter will be done in a manner to be prescribed and this is not prescribed in the primary legislation to provide for flexibility. As such, regulations will specify the manner of marking of a voter,” he explained.

The Bill received unanimous support from legislators though some opined that it should long have been brought before the National Assembly to be accorded the attention it deserved.

Debating the Bill, Serowe North MP, Mr Baratiwa Mathoothe, was of the view that Batswana had long been yearning for the indelible ink.

Dr Lemogang Kwape of Kanye South supported the Bill, saying it was born from comprehensive consultations with all concerned stakeholders.

Serowe West MP, Mr Onalepelo Kedikilwe said the use of the ink would address concerns about double or multiple voting, hence transparency in the electoral process.

Mr Caterpillar Hikuama of Ngami said the use of the ink would add credibility to the electoral process and safeguard democratic values.

Mr Hikuama said the past general election was marred by controversy due to allegations that some had voted more than once.

“Eliminating issues that are likely to result in controversy will then mean that focus is diverted to the good and restoring fairness and transparency in the electoral process,” he said.

Leader of Opposition, also Selebi Phikwe West MP, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse said Batswana desired free, fair, transparent and credible elections.

Mr Keorapetse said the use of indelible ink had been a topical discussion in the past.

“It is necessary to guard against possible risks likely to corrupt the electoral process,” he said.

Lerala/Maunatlala MP, Mr Setlhabelo Modukanele said using a mark to identify those who had voted would do away with concerns likely to arise questioning credibility of an election.

He thus also highlighted the need to nurture democracy and continue serving Batswana diligently. ENDS