The Attorney General’s Chambers, which is in the portfolio of Botswana’s Ministry of Justice, Defence and Security, is headed by the Attorney General, currently Dr. Athaliah Molokomme. According to Botswana’s Constitution, the Attorney General is the government’s principal legal adviser, an ex-officio member of Cabinet, and a member of various high level councils, boards and committees which make policy decisions. Within the Attorney General’s Chambers are several divisions which deal with specific legal issues, including Civil Litigation, International and Commercial Services, Legislative Drafting and Corporate Services. The Attorney General also oversees the administration of the independent office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. Athaliah Molokomme provides an introduction to the legal environment in Botswana.
European Times: How would you characterise Botswana’s legal system?
Athaliah Molokomme: The legal system is mature and well established, and is firmly based on the rule of law and good governance. Botswana has held free, fair and peaceful elections every five years since 1966. In addition, Botswana’s judiciary is well known to be independent and serves as a benchmark for other countries in the African region and beyond. I believe stakeholders are generally very confident regarding the integrity of Botswana’s judicial system.
European Times: How well is Botswana performing concerning the fight against corruption?
Athaliah Molokomme: According to Transparency International, Botswana is ranked number 30 (64%) out of 177 countries, and number one in Africa, an impressive record that has been consistent over the years. For its part, like other government departments, the Attorney General’s office has established the Fraud and Corruption Prevention Policy, which sets out the Attorney General’s commitment to corruption prevention, strategies and reporting procedures. A Corruption Prevention Committee based in the Attorney General’s Chambers oversees this effort by conducting corruption risk assessments, monitoring risk management, evaluating corruption controls and educating the staff of the Chambers concerning combating corruption.
European Times: What are your main goals for Botswana over the coming five years?
Athaliah Molokomme: I would like to see Botswana maintain its status as a middle-income country or even better, making significant progress towards high income status. I would also like to see im Attorney General’s Chambers oversees this effort by conducting corruption risk assessments, monitoring risk management, evaluating corruption controls and educating the staff of the Chambers concerning combating corruption.
European Times: What are your main goals for Botswana over the coming five years?
Athaliah Molokomme: I would like to see Botswana maintain its status as a middle-income country or even better, making significant progress towards high income status. I would also like to see improv
