Botswana: The Commissioner of Police, Dinah Marathe addressed police officers from the position of Station Commanders and above. The addressing was done through a virtual meeting today ahead of the nation’s upcoming elections.
She informed the officers that this years’ general elections will engage 90% of police officers. She said this was due to a number of factors including increase in Parliament and Council seats/ Polling Districts and Polling Stations.
Other factors contributing to the increased need of officers is increased use of social media, formation of new political parties and coalitions, emergence of informal structures and pressure groups.
The Commissioner Dinah Marathe assured the officers that the situation that would otherwise lead to operational gaps has been taken care of. She credited this to the effective collaborations between BPS and its stakeholders.
She also highlighted that Botswana Defence Force (BDF) has offered their operational support to the would be affected areas. Commissioner Marathe informed the officials that the organisation has developed a BPS Elections Preparedness Strategy.
This will serve as a guiding tool to help in the fulfilment of the department’s election mandate and discharge of duties. The elections are scheduled for October 30, with only 40 days to prepare all organizations have taken steps to get themselves ready.
She said the Strategy was informed by past experiences, situational analysis of the political landscape, resource requirements, acquisition and deployment.
The Commissioner emphasised the need for ensuring the safety and security of the voters, the international election observers and the nation at large, calling on police officers to execute this duty with courtesy, integrity and pride. She also advised the officers to handle election related matters within the confines of the legislative mandate.
The Commissioner appreciated police officers in their daily efforts towards serving Batswana and the visitors of the country with honour and distinction. She complemented the officers for being resolute and loyal in their service delivery, despite the challenging circumstances.
She appreciated the officers for their dedication and commitment to the people of the nation.
