Botswana Election Appeal Led By Duma Boka Set for January 29th

Yesterday Justice Singh Walia of the court of Appeal decided upon January 29th as the date for the hearing of an election appeal.

The appeal follows the dismissal of election results petitions by the Gaborone and Francistown High Courts in December, as there was a belief, they lacked essential elements.

The Court of Appeal directed applicants to file their heads of arguments before January 17th, whilst respondents will file no later than January 24th.

Prior to making the ruling, Justice Walia had stated that the appeals were similar in nature as they arose from comparable circumstances.

"I do not see any reason why they cannot be consolidated," said Judge Walia.

He also noted that the cases were of national importance and therefore must be accorded the importance they deserved.

The appellants are Advocate Duma Boko, Mr Masego Segokgo, Mr Victor Phologolo, Mr Nelson Ramaotwana, Dr Mpho Pheko, Mr Aubrey Ramatsebanyana, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, Mr Moagi Molebatsi, Mr Olebogeng Watshipi, Dr Patrick Molutsi, Mr Ontathile Selatlho, Mr Mahomed Khan, Mr Haskins Nkaigwa, Dr Micus Chimbombi and Mr Sam Digwa.