According to the Standing Orders, “Sergeant-at-Arms” means a senior officer entrusted with the security of the House, precincts of parliament and Members’ residences. The Sergeant at Arms is yet another important Parliamentary official responsible for order in the House during the proceedings. This office dates back to around 1400s and had security responsibilities. This office has roots in the medieval Europe, particularly England, where armed guards of the nobility and monarchs were responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining good order. So, over time, the role has evolved and came to be associated more with law enforcement officers of legislative assemblies. Over the years, the office has also become more and more ceremonial. Sergeant at Arms carried a mace, originally a weapon but over time it became an ornament. Whilst a mace is recognized in the Standing Orders of Parliament of Botswana, there is no actual mace, unlike say in the Parliament of South Africa and the House of Commons. It may be that in the future a mace is placed when Parliament is on.
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