House of Chiefs of Botswana

Botswana

This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Botswana

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The House of Chiefs (Setswana: Ntlo ya Dikgosi) of Botswana is an advisory body of the country's Parliament.

Composition

The House of Chiefs consists of 35 members. Eight members are hereditary chiefs from Botswana's principal tribes (baKgatla, baKwêna, baMalete, bamaNgwato, baNgwaketse, baRôlông, baTawana, and baTlôkwa). Another 22 members are indirectly elected and serve five-year terms. Of these, four are chosen from sub-chiefs in the districts of North-East, Chobe, Ghanzi, and Kgalagadi. The remaining 5 members are appointed by the country's president. They must be at least 21 years of age, proficient in the English language, and have not participated in active politics in the past five years. Chiefs may not belong to political parties.

Powers

The House of Chiefs acts as a purely advisory body to the Parliament and has no legislative or veto power. All bills affecting tribal organization and property, customary law, and the administration of customary courts go through the house before being discussed. Members must also be consulted when the constitution is being reviewed or amended. The body has the power to summon members of government.

See also

• National Assembly of Botswana - which, together with the President, forms the Parliament of Botswana
• History of Botswana
• Legislative Branch
• List of Chairpersons of the House of Chiefs of Botswana