Defense attorneys warn DCEC, DPP
The high profile cases involving enormous amounts of money by very prominent persons continue to be in and out of court as the State continues to drag its feet.
The Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC), have been accused by Busang Manewe, a defense lawyer in the Carter Morupisi case, for the tendency of rushing to court with half-baked cases. “There is a growing trend in this Republic where people are dragged to court on half-baked cases,” he said. The past two years have seen high profile cases being registered with the courts by the State but there have been little breakthrough in the matters.
MANEWE WANTS MORUPISI CHARGES DROPPED
Morupisi has been charged on three counts of abuse of office, receiving bribery and money laundering. Morupisi, through his attorney Manewe, made an application to have his charges dropped, claiming that the State is never and would never be ready. Broadhurst Regional Magistrate dismissed the application pleading with the Defense Counsel to be patient and allow the Prosecution time to gather evidence. The Prosecution had argued that the reason the investigations were slow was because they began when Morupisi was still holding the Permanent Secretary to the President position. They also argued that corruption cases take time to unleash and find enough evidence.
Prosecution informed the court that DCEC still needs time to obtain statements from witnesses in South Africa, emphasizing that the State will be ready to commit the accused persons to trial in February, 2020. Manewe rubbished the Prosecution’s arguments and asked to be put on record. “I can assure you when we come back in 2020, the State will ask for more time and we will wait another year while investigations continue. The State is simply not ready and should withdraw the case and bring it [to Court] when they are ready,” said Manewe.
Manewe further said: “It is not normal that a properly directed authority will arrest a charge they are still investigating. One can imagine the harm caused to the accused person’s careers by the DPP. I don’t know why we are in court, I cannot even tell my client why he is in court.”
NGAKAAGAE SAYS THE JUDICIAL SYSTEM IS TO BLAME
The National Petroleum Fund’s P250 million scandal involving Bakang Seretse, Mogomotsi Seretse, Kago Stimela, Sadique Kebonang, High Court Justice Zein Kebonang and Kenneth Kerekang, has been before the Magistrate’s court for over two years. The Prosecution has amended the charge five times in a row, however the matter is still not ready for trial. The Kebonang brothers-the accused in the matter- have taken it upon themselves to file an application with the High Court to have their charges dropped.
In an interview with this publication, Ngakaagae expressed deep disappointment with the judicial system. The outspoken Counsel said that it is a great concern that criminal trials are done at the accused person’s expense. He elucidated that such cases exhaust the accused person before trial starts and by the time it gets to the High Court for trial, all their resources would have been exhausted.
“Magistrates seem unwilling to take the state to task, they are seemingly guilty. They allow the state to bring half-baked cases before them. They have reduced the courts to investigating forums,” he alleged. Ngakaagae is worried that prolonged cases with the Magistrate may lead to unfair trials, indicating that no matter how much they may blame the Prosecution, the Magistrates are solely to blame. He pointed out that efforts to appeal to the High Court have yielded no results and it will take another two years to be listened to.
“We are suffering at the hands of the justice system. They are the biggest problem in all these cases, and I am not only looking at NPF but also including the ‘Butterfly’ case and many others. I agree wholly with Manewe. The Judicial system is on the same side as the prosecution because they are comfortable with the constant tendency by the ‘Prosecution of investigations are still ongoing’. They allow them to be comfortable with delaying processes and we know how slow our judicial system is,” said Ngakaagae.
BUTTERFLY FURTHER REMANDED
In yet another popular case involving one Directorate of Intelligence and Security agent, Welheminah Maswabi code name “Butterfly”, who was arrested on three charges of financing terrorism after transferring from an offshore account the sum of P29 million to former DIS spy Chief Isaac Kgosi, in January this year. The now famous Butterfly also faces an alleged criminal offense of falsifying her names to Lorato Hilton and alleged possession of different passports.
On Thursday morning, the inquisitive public thronged the Broadhurst Magistrate Court to witness the most talked about Butterfly as she appeared for her mention under heavy escort. Earlier this month, the High Court denied Butterfly bail. The state argued that the accused might be a flight risk. Both the public and the court were left trembling when they learnt that the accused has over US$390 million in her personal bank accounts.
The state pleaded for the accused to be further remanded in custody as they await the investigating team who are supposed to be outside the country gathering evidence. Butterfly will be back in court on the 27th November 2019. A close source has reliably informed this publication that Butterfly’s arrest will see more arrests in the near future. Some of the high-ranking opposition members might get a taste of the bitter medicine.
News
19 Bokamoso Private Hospital nurses graduate at Lenmed Nursing College
The graduation of 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College marks a significant milestone in their careers. These nurses have successfully completed various short learning programs, including Adult Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Nursing Care, Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing, Anaesthetic Nursing, and Recovery Room Nursing. The ceremony, held in Gaborone, was a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Lenmed Nursing College, a renowned healthcare group with a presence in South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Ghana, has been instrumental in providing quality education and training to healthcare professionals. The Group Head of Operations, Jayesh Parshotam, emphasized the importance of upskilling nurses, who are at the forefront of healthcare systems. He also expressed his appreciation for the partnerships with Bokamoso Private Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and various health training institutes in Botswana.
Dr. Morrison Sinvula, a consultant from the Ministry of Health, commended Lenmed Health and Lenmed Nursing College for their commitment to the education and training of these exceptional nurses. He acknowledged their guidance, mentorship, and support in shaping the nurses’ careers and ensuring their success. Dr. Sinvula also reminded the graduates that education does not end here, as the field of healthcare is constantly evolving. He encouraged them to remain committed to lifelong learning and professional development, embracing new technologies and staying updated with the latest medical advancements.
Dr. Gontle Moleele, the Superintendent of Bokamoso Private Hospital, expressed her excitement and pride in the graduating class of 2023. She acknowledged the sacrifices made by these individuals, who have families and responsibilities, to ensure their graduation. Dr. Moleele also thanked Lenmed Nursing College for providing this opportunity to the hospital’s nurses, as it will contribute to the growth of the hospital.
The certificate recipients from Bokamoso Private Hospital were recognized for their outstanding achievements in their respective programs. Those who received the Cum Laude distinction in the Adult Intensive Care Unit program were Elton Keatlholwetse, Lebogang Kgokgonyane, Galaletsang Melamu, Pinkie Mokgosi, Ofentse Seboletswe, Gorata Basupi, Bareng Mosala, and Justice Senyarelo. In the Emergency Nursing Care program, Atlanang Moilwa, Bakwena Moilwa, Nathan Nhiwathiwa, Mogakolodi Lesarwe, Modisaotsile Thomas, and Lorato Matenje received the Cum Laude distinction. Kelebogile Dubula and Gaolatlhe Sentshwaraganye achieved Cum Laude in the Anaesthetic & Recovery Room Nursing program, while Keletso Basele excelled in the Anaesthetic Nursing program. Mompoloki Mokwaledi received recognition for completing the Recovery Room Nursing program.
In conclusion, the graduation of these 19 nurses from Bokamoso Private Hospital at Lenmed Nursing College is a testament to their dedication and commitment to their profession. They have successfully completed various short learning programs, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their respective fields. The collaboration between Lenmed Nursing College, Bokamoso Private Hospital, and the Ministry of Health has played a crucial role in their success. As they embark on their careers, these nurses are encouraged to continue their professional development and embrace new advancements in healthcare.
News
BNF secures 15 constituencies in UDC coalition, wants more
The Botswana National Front (BNF) has recently announced that they have already secured 15 constituencies in the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) coalition, despite ongoing negotiations. This revelation comes as the BNF expresses its dissatisfaction with the current government and its leadership.
The UDC, which is comprised of the BNF, Botswana Peoples Party (BPP), Alliance for Progressives (AP), and Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), is preparing for the upcoming General Elections. However, the negotiations to allocate constituencies among the involved parties are still underway. Despite this, the BNF Chairman, Patrick Molotsi, confidently stated that they have already acquired 15 constituencies and are expecting to add more to their tally.
Molotsi’s statement reflects the BNF’s long-standing presence in many constituencies across Botswana. With a strong foothold in these areas, it is only natural for the BNF to seek an increase in the number of constituencies they represent. This move not only strengthens their position within the UDC coalition but also demonstrates their commitment to serving the interests of the people.
In a press conference, BNF Secretary General, Ketlhafile Motshegwa, expressed his discontent with the current government leadership. He criticized the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) for what he perceives as a disregard for the well-being of the Batswana people. Motshegwa highlighted issues such as high unemployment rates and shortages of essential medicines as evidence of the government’s failure to address the needs of its citizens.
The BNF’s dissatisfaction with the current government is a reflection of the growing discontent among the population. The Batswana people are increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress and the failure to address pressing issues. The BNF’s assertion that the government is playing with the lives of its citizens resonates with many who feel neglected and unheard.
The BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, even before the negotiations have concluded, is a testament to their popularity and support among the people. It is a clear indication that the Batswana people are ready for change and are looking to the BNF to provide the leadership they desire.
As the negotiations continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the interests of the people. The allocation of constituencies should be done in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that the voices of all citizens are represented. The BNF’s success in securing constituencies should serve as a reminder to the other parties of the need to listen to the concerns and aspirations of the people they aim to represent.
In conclusion, the BNF’s acquisition of 15 constituencies, despite ongoing negotiations, highlights their strong presence and support among the Batswana people. Their dissatisfaction with the current government leadership reflects the growing discontent in the country. As the UDC coalition prepares for the upcoming General Elections, it is crucial for all parties to prioritize the needs and aspirations of the people. The BNF’s success should serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of the citizens and working towards a better future for Botswana.
News
Children’s summit to discuss funding of NGOS
One of the key issues that will be discussed by the Childrens’ Summit, which will be hosted by Childline Botswana Trust on 28th – 30th November in Gaborone, will be the topical issue of financing and strengthening of civil society organizations.
A statement from Childline Botswana indicates that the summit will adopt a road map for resourcing the children’s agenda by funding organizations. It will also cover issues relating to child welfare and protection; aimed at mobilizing governments to further strengthen Child Helplines; as well as sharing of emerging technologies to enhance the protection of Children and promotion of their rights.
According to Gaone Chepete, Communications Officer at Childline Botswana, the overall objective of the summit is to provide a platform for dialogue and engagement towards promoting practices and policies that fulfil children’s rights and welfare.
“Child Helplines in the region meet on a bi-annual basis to reflect on the state of children; evaluate their contribution and share experiences and best practice in the provision of services for children,” said Chepete.
The financing of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by the state or its functionaries has generated mixed reactions from within the civil society space, with many arguing that it threatened NGOs activism and operational independence.
In February 2019, University of Botswana academic Kenneth Dipholo released a paper titled “State philanthropy: The demise of charitable organizations in Botswana,” in which he faulted then President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama for using charity for political convenience and annexing the operational space of NGOs.
“Civil society is the domain in which individuals can exercise their rights as citizens and set limits to the power of the state. The state should be developing capable voluntary organizations rather than emaciating or colonizing them by usurping their space,” argued Dipholo.
He further argued that direct involvement of the state or state president in charity breeds unhealthy competition between the state itself and other organizations involved in charity. Under these circumstances, he added, the state will use charity work to remain relevant to the ordinary people and enhance its visibility at the expense of NGOs.
“A consequence of this arrangement is that charitable organizations will become affiliates of the state. This stifles innovation in the sense that it narrows the ability of charitable organizations to think outside the box. It also promotes mono-culturalism, as the state could support only charitable organizations that abide by its wishes,” said Dipholo.
In conclusion, Dipholo urged the state to focus on supporting NGOs so that they operate in a system that combines philanthropic work and state welfare programs.
He added that state philanthropy threatens to relegate and render charitable organizations virtually irrelevant and redundant unless they re-engineer themselves.
Another University of Botswana (UB) academic, Professor Zibani Maundeni, opined that politics vitally shape civil society interaction; as seen in the interactions between the two, where there is mutual criticism in each other’s presence.
Over the years, NGOs have found themselves grappling with dwindling financial resources as donors ran out of money in the face of increased competition for financing. Many NGOs have also been faulted for poorly managing their finances because of limited strategic planning and financial management expertise. This drove NGOs to look to government for funding; which fundamentally altered the relationships between the two. The end result was a complete change in the operational culture of NGOs, which diminished their social impact and made them even more fragile. Increased government control through contract clauses also reduced NGOs activism and autonomy.
However, others believe that NGOs and government need each other, especially in the provision of essential services like child welfare and protection. Speaking at the Civil Society Child Rights Convention in 2020, Assistant Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Setlhabelo Modukanele said government considers NGOs as critical partners in development.
“We recognize the role that NGOs play a critical role in the country’s development agenda,” said Modukanele.