I am not afraid of DIS, BURS – Khama
Former President Lt Gen Seretse Khama Ian Khama has expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which former intelligence chief, Colonel Isaac Kgosi was arrested, saying it was amateurish and too personal. He even questioned what business the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) has on tax issues.
Khama was not impressed by what he considers a staged operation to embarrass the former spy chief in full view of the public and the media. The former Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) boss was arrested on Tuesday last week, reportedly on charges related to corruption and tax evasion, but Kgosi is yet to be charged. He has since been released. He was arrested at the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA) upon rival from Dubai.
The arrest follows a lifestyle audit reportedly conducted on the former intelligence head by the Botswana Unified Revenue Services (BURS) after attempts to lay separate charges by prosecutors were delayed. When speaking to WeekendPost this week, former President Ian Khama said the arrest was aimed at discrediting and humiliating Isaac Kgosi. But Khama said he does not blame the DIS for the manner of the arrest because “they were operating under instructions from above”.
“Is this now the start of how things will be done in Botswana? This is not the way intelligence carries out such a high profile arrest in other countries,” observed Khama. Khama first worked with Kgosi at the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) and Kgosi later quit the military to serve as Khama’s Senior Private Secretary after the latter was appointed vice president of Botswana. In 2008 Khama entrusted Kgosi with the establishment of the DIS becoming its first Director General until he was sacked by the current President Mokgweetsi Masisi last year.
In this interview the former president said he was satisfied with the way Kgosi executed his duties but indicated that accountability lied with the relevant ministry which DIS reports to. The former President said ever since he appointed Kgosi, he has never heard of the things he is being accused of especially in the mold of corruption and tax evasion. “When it comes to accountability there are elements in government whose responsibility it is to call all government departments to account for what they are doing”.
Khama said he was only responsible for their operations but it terms of accountability, they have their own Minister, Permanent Secretary and Permanent Secretary to the President and lastly the President. “Based on that DIS used to report actions and activities they were carrying out once in a while and yes I was satisfied. That does not mean to say I was commanding or ordering them like what happened at the airport, like saying go and arrest this person and do it this way. That was never my thing”.
Khama dismissed allegations that he remained quiet and was hiding in Tuli Block during the period of the arrest because the Isaac Kgosi scandals implicate him. He said it was very unfortunate that the incident coincided with an annual holiday in Tuli Block where “I also do charity work every year”. “It is just a coincidence that it happened whilst I was out of town,” he stated. Khama said as soon as he arrived he went straight to see Kgosi and his family to offer them support, reassure him and comfort his family.
The former President said even though he did not have enough time to look at the Intelligence and Security Act following Kgosi’s ordeal, he believes it gives the Director General some certain powers as it is case with many other institutions outside government who are given powers. He however said how you exercise those privileged powers will determine the type of leader you are.
“We don’t want people to exceed their powers, this is a democracy. I don’t blame the DIS or Magosi, I know him to be very professional and normally he would not do things in that manner unless instructed to do so,” he said. The former president said there is no bad blood between him and current DIS chief, Brigadier Peter Magosi. “I also worked with him before, he was a good officer, very efficient, effective and I am sure he will lead the DIS well,” Khama added.
However Khama said after visiting Kgosi, he does not find it appropriate to call Magosi because he is doing his government job according to instructions from his superiors. When asked about the possibility of suffering the same fate as Kgosi, and how he would react, Khama said he could not tell now because people react differently.
But he said he commends Kgosi and how he handled the whole situation despite uttering some words which he did not really mean because of what he had to go through in the public eye and in front of his own family. “All what I can say if there was ever a thing like that, that involves me, it would have been under the same situation.
Fortunately for now we still live under democracy and we have legal course to take action against any abuse of power and that is the route that I will take because I swore to uphold the laws and the constitution of this country when I was sworn in as President and as far as I am concerned it didn’t end when I was President,” Khama said. Khama said he has not met Masisi nor talked to him, thus their sour relationship still prevails. He said the current administration has engaged in some undemocratic actions and that it is cause for concern because that will eventually lead to the erosion of the country’s democracy.
He said the intolerance that they continue to display shows immaturity and total disregard for other people’s opinions. “You don’t use your powers in ta reckless manner just so you safeguard your own self-interests, that is abuse of power. Right now people are being fired; and some in business say orders are issued barring them from getting tenders or being supported, this is humiliating and it has never happened before.”
The former president said he does not know everyone’s life in and out, so he does not know Kgosi as corrupt person. “I know him based on how we worked together at a professional level. So it is for others, if they assume he has done something wrong they should follow the normal procedures. I understand his issue has something to do with tax but what does DIS have to do with tax? There are people in this country who have been owing taxes and we have never heard of them going and being arrested by DIS in that same manner.”
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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.