Prosecutors deserve better
The plea from prosecutors within the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to President Mokgweetsi Masisi brings to the fore a critical issue within the country’s justice system. These legal professionals, who are entrusted with upholding the rule of law, face numerous challenges that compromise their ability to effectively carry out their duties. Elsewhere in this edition, we carry a story on the lamentations of the officers of court.
The prosecutors have raised a number of concerns, calling for urgent attention from all relevant stakeholders, including the President, Minister of Justice and the Attorney General. Their grievances revolve around several key areas that demand immediate action to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the justice system.
One of the primary issues highlighted by the prosecutors is the need for better safety measures. They complained that they face threats both at work and in their personal lives, yet feel unsupported and vulnerable. Their demand for a risk allowance is a reasonable request given the dangerous nature of their work and the risks they undertake in the pursuit of justice.
Furthermore, the prosecutors rightly point out the lack of career progression and salary increases compared to their counterparts in sister departments. Despite their crucial role in the justice machinery, they feel undervalued and overlooked, with little prospect of advancement or recognition.Training is another area of concern. As crime evolves and becomes increasingly complex, prosecutors must stay abreast of new trends and developments. However, budget cuts have severely impacted their training opportunities, leaving them ill-equipped to handle modern criminal challenges effectively. The overwhelming workload faced by prosecutors, especially in light of the DPP’s takeover project from the Botswana Police Service (BPS), is also a significant issue. As a result they feel understaffed, under-resourced, and stretched beyond their limits, leading to burnout and decreased morale. Without adequate support, the quality of justice delivered to the people of Botswana is compromised. Moreover, the prosecutors question the independence of the DPP within the Attorney General’s Chambers. True autonomy is essential for the effective functioning of the DPP and the welfare of its employees. Without it, prosecutors may find themselves stifled by bureaucratic constraints, unable to address the needs of their department and the broader justice system.
While the government has taken some steps to address security concerns and fill vacant positions within the DPP, more comprehensive reforms are needed to address the systemic issues raised by the prosecutors. President Masisi and other relevant stakeholders must prioritise the welfare of prosecutors and work collaboratively to implement meaningful changes.
The plight of prosecutors should not be ignored. They are the backbone of the justice system, and their grievances must be addressed promptly and effectively. Hence President Masisi and all relevant stakeholders must heed their call for action and ensure that prosecutors are given the support, respect, and resources they need to carry out their vital role in upholding justice.