2019 Elections: It�s a close call for BDP � Security agencies
Botswana’s economy remains stable and is expected to grow this year despite the electorate nervously gearing for the October general election amid serious fighting among rival factions in the ruling party, the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) and other opposition parties.
With political and economic analysts predicting that a divided BDP, in power for the past 58 years, will face stiff challenge from the opposition and fail to garner an overwhelming majority in the coming elections, the country’s economy remains firm and remains attractive for investors. “A divided Botswana Democratic Party will fail to secure an overwhelming majority in the 2019 elections but is expected to remain in power,” an international think-tank, the Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU) has predicted ahead of the country’s watershed national plebiscite.
“(However), the economy will continue to remain heavily mineral-dependent, and as a result economic growth will fluctuate according to external demand and prices for diamonds,” the think-tank said. Other analysts are predicting that the non-mining sectors were expected to pick up further, before and after the election, driven by structural reforms, including an amended immigration law that ensures expeditious processing of work and residence permits while construction was expected to continue benefiting from the on-going fiscal stimulus.
However, despite the positive economic outlook, the October election has been characterised by a number of challenges including massive defections in the ruling BDP, verbal threats and backstabbing among other rivals parties. Former president Ian Khama, who has maintained poor relations with President Mokgweetsi Masisi, left the BDP and has been instrumental in the formation of a new opposition political party, the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), where he was recently appointed the party’s patron.
“The divisions in the ruling party, which have deepened in 2019, are unlikely to prevent the BDP from retaining a parliamentary majority unless (Pelonomi) Venson-Moitoi and her supporters leave the BDP to form a new organisation or join the opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). We view this as unlikely,” another international security organisation, Garda World projected. Venson-Moitoi is a former foreign minister who in April this year withdrew her challenge in the BDP’s internal elections to select its presidential candidate where President Masisi was later nominated.
In such previous elections, candidates were chosen unopposed. Other potential presidential, parliamentary and local council players in the coming election are; the Progressives (AP) and the Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD). However, regardless of these political intrigues in parties contesting the coming elections and the unpredictable outcome of the results, Botswana’s economy has managed to weather the storm and is expected to remain stable. Garda World attributed Botswana’s strong economy in the face of a volatile election period to strong State and private institutions, a low debt burden and efforts to diversify the economy through measures including tax concessions in manufacturing. “We forecast GDP (Gross Domestic Growth) will grow by 4.6 percent in 2019.
This is likely to soften in 2010 to 4.3 percent given our forecast of slowing global growth. Botswana’s operational environment ranks among the best in Africa. Corruption is not considered a significant problem, with Botswana often being among the best in the region in surveys and indices measuring graft,” Garda World predicted. However, other analysts said despite Botswana’s operational environment ranking it among the best in Africa, President Masisi was being distracted in carrying out his constitutional duties as the Head of State, as he spends most of his time engaged in fierce battles with his new rival, former president Khama.
As a result, President Masisi is being criticised of failing to create employment for a huge market of unemployed youths, which stands now at 40 percent. His opponents also accuse President Masisi of making fairy-tale commitments in his election campaigns such as designing an electric car in Botswana when the electorate expects realistic messages from him that will improve their livelihoods.
“Bureaucratic issues, skills shortages, and electricity and water constraints are among operational challenges. Botswana is under pressing economic conditions with high levels of unemployment within the youth, high numbers of highly trained graduates without jobs, frequent retrenchments in the work place, poor or low wages, worker strikes precipitated by poor government/labour relations, student strikes over unpaid stipends and pressing land issues,” said Garda World.
Freedom House, an international civil rights organisation said President Masisi’s government was not doing enough to protect ordinary workers and ending human trafficking. “Employee abuses in retail stores, the tourism industry, and private security sector are an on-going problem. Botswana lacks a strong regulatory framework for labour brokers that dispatch workers to clients on short-term contracts, in which exploitation is common. Human trafficking remains a challenge,” Freedom House said. President Masisi became the caretaker president of Botswana in April last year, upon the end of the constitutional term of President Khama and he will serve in that capacity until lawmakers elect a new president after the October general election.
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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.
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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.
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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.