Batswana assured of basic rights (Daily News)

GABORONE - Botswana has always been committed to building a nation of equals with equitable access to the benefits of independence and development, the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Moeng Pheto, said on Friday.
Speaking at the launch of the roving torch and month-long 40th independence anniversary celebrations, Pheto said Botswana leaders had ensured that every Motswana, irrespective of race, religion, gender, class or place of origin, was protected by the constitution and guaranteed basic rights and freedom.
Pheto said, the constitution has further ensured that the enjoyment of these rights and freedom by any individual do not prejudice the public interest.
I am further reminded that our leaders, including the traditional one, have always derived their ultimate mandate from the will of the people.
This common democratic heritage is further reflected in the existence within our society of deeply embedded institutions of public consultation, such as the kgotla.
He said the function of this forum had long been regulated by shared cultural norms that placed a high value on tolerance of diversity, as well as a desire to achieve genuine consensus.
Thus, he said, no view was considered to be so foolish as to be unworthy of a fair hearing, adding that likewise, no individual was considered to be above constructive criticism and respectful advice.
In the end, it had been our nature to seek compromise above violent confrontation. If we have occasionally given in to less tolerant instincts in our public affairs, it is because we have strayed from the paths of our ancestors.
They, our forefathers, and our current leadership, understood then and understand today that without peace and social harmony there can be never be prosperity, he said.
Pheto, therefore, invited all Batswana to join and participate in celebrating the achievement as a nation in the 40 years of independence.
Equally, he said, Batswana must remember that there was much they could be thankful for, because economically, socially and politically much had been gained. BOPA

Source: Daily News