Duma Boko says sorry to Ntlo ya Dikgosi for ghosting them on reform

Big constitutional plans hit a speed bump when tradition asked why nobody knocked first.

The meeting put the court idea on the table

• On 16 January, Duma Boko sat down with Ntlo ya Dikgosi.
• The topic was the proposed Constitutional Court for Botswana.
• The pitch centered on tightening constitutionalism, law, and democratic practice.

Traditional leaders backed the concept

• Ntlo ya Dikgosi made it clear they are not anti-reform.
• Support was framed around national benefit and legal strength.
• The court itself was not the issue.

Process raised eyebrows

• Members pointed out they were not consulted before the idea became a Bill.
• That gap landed as a respect problem, not a technical one.
• Established procedures mattered more than speed here.

The president owned the miss

• Boko acknowledged the oversight without deflecting.
• An apology was offered directly to the House.
• He stressed that reform cannot skip institutions or tradition.

Consultations promised nationwide

• The President committed to broad public engagement.
• Citizens, civil society groups, and stakeholders are expected to weigh in.
• The goal is alignment with public trust and national interest.

Why this court matters

• A Constitutional Court would focus solely on upholding the constitution.
• The move aims to sharpen checks and balances.
• It signals a push toward stronger democratic safeguards.

Balancing change and tradition

• Government engagement with Ntlo ya Dikgosi was framed as intentional.
• Legal innovation is being paired with traditional governance.
• The consultation phase is set to shape how this reform actually lands.