Browsing Political and Administrative Studies (PAS) by Author "Molomo, M.G."
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Molomo, M.G. (Pula: Botswana Journal of African Studies, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: This article outlines that the Constitution of Botswana provides for an executive presidency with extensive powers. Unlike other constitutions in the region where power is vested with the people, in Botswana it is vested with the President. While democratic procedures have not been flaunted in Botswana, in a situation where one political party dominates both the executive and the legislative branches of government, there is cause for concern. In this situation, the checks and balances provided for in the constitution are almost redundant. The declaration of the state of emergency and the granting of the Vice-President, Ian Khama, sabbatical leave by the President are examples where the President used his executive powers. This article concludes that given the wide-ranging executive powers that the President enjoys, there is a strong case for presidential elections. In that way, the president would be directly elected by the electorate and therefore directly accountable to them. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/897 Files in this item: 1
Molomo_PBJAS_2000.pdf (1.063Mb) -
Molomo, M.G. (Pula: Botswana Journal of African Studies, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: Electoral systems are manipulative instruments that determine how elections are won and lost. Botswana is widely regarded as a frontrunner in democratic politics, but the electoral system that it operates has been wanting in some respects. Tthe First-past-the-post system has helped to consolidate democratic practice, and also provides for an effective link between Members of Parliament and their constituencies, but empirical evidence suggests that it is the least democratic electoral system. Its winner-take-all practic distorts electoral outcomes, and often produces minority governments. The article proceeds to discuss proportional representation (PR) and semi-proportional representation, and outlines their strengths and weaknesses. The paper concludes that since both the FPTP system and PR systems have inherent limitations, the best system would be one that draws on the best aspects of each system. The anicle recommends a variation of the Mixed-Member Proportionality system. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/900 Files in this item: 1
Molomo2_PBJAS_2000.pdf (880.6Kb) -
Molomo, M.G. (Made Plain Commucation, NaN, 2008)[more][less]
Abstract: This chapter discusses the national integrity system of political parties. In assessing the viability and integrity of political parties, the purpose of their existence needs to be established and analysed. The building and institutionalisation of political parties is a basic prerequisite for deepening and consolidating democracy. However, the organisational structures and the resources at the disposal of political parties influence their effectiveness. In addition, as entities that make national laws within the framework of parliamentary democracy, political parties must conduct themselves in an open and ethical manner. This chapter will assess their integrity, the handling of conflict of interest, and their perception regarding rules and disclosure. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/635 Files in this item: 1
Molomo_TACB_2008.pdf (1.574Mb) -
Molomo, M.G. (Routledge, http://www.informaworld.com, NaN, 2000)[more][less]
Abstract: This paper discusses the relationship between the ruling party and opposition parties in the struggle to capture political power in Botswana. It demonstrates the resilience of the multi-party framework that is founded on the basic principles of political freedom and civil liberty. Moreover, it explains how the poverty of ideology has presented a political landscape without any clear political alternatives. More concretely, it outlines the weaknesses of opposition parties, that they do not pose any serious challenge to the ruling party. However, in spite of their weaknesses, opposition parties have played a more constructive role in shaping the democratic process than has commonly been recognised. They have provided important checks and balances to make government more accountable and responsive to peoples' needs, yet they have not projected themselves as alternative governments. URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10311/995 Files in this item: 1
Molomo_CCP_2000.pdf (2.191Mb)
Now showing items 1-4 of 4