THIS MONTH IN HISTORY (1966)

Source : Kutlwano

Author : Ralph Molefhe

Location : GABORONE

Event : History

Looking resplendent in snow white uniform, plumed helmet and sword, His Excellency the Queen`s Commissioner first inspected the Guard of Honour provided by the B. P. Police. The Police band looked exceptionally smart in their starched khaki uniforms.

After a short speech in which Sir Hug commented on the beauty of the building – a masterpiece of modern architecture – he was given the ceremonial scissors by the Speaker of the House, Dr. A. M. Merriweather, OBE to cut the tape in front of the doors.

Invited guests, comprising senior Government officers, Chiefs and leading citizens, went up the stairs to the gallery whilst Cabinet Ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (which will become the National Assembly at midnight on September 29) entered the Chamber from a side door.

The interior of the Chamber itself, exquisitely furnished with black high-backed seats and white upholstery, presents a magnificent and fascinating sight.

Her Majesty`s Commissioner read the last speech from the throne (on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II) before Independence. The Chair of Honour, soon to be occupied by the President of Botswana, was bedecked with Royal Colours.

This was a moving and colourful ceremony. The public gallery was packed with invited multi-racial guests, including the Mayors of Francistown, Gaberones and Lobatse. Ends

Teaser:

The official opening of the new National Assembly Building by His Excellency Sir Hugh Norman-Walker at Gaberones on August 16 was, aside from some distraction caused by a group of placard-carrying marchers from the People`s Party, carried out with traditional British pomp and dignity.