Saleshando speaks on Pilane,UDC VP concern
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Charming Vice President of opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) who doubles as leader of Botswana Congress Party (BCP) Dumelang Saleshando has explained that the disputed ex-President of Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD) Advocate Sidney Pilane’ s political fate lies not with the UDC but rather the BMD.
He stressed that the BMD delegates at the next congress scheduled for December (next weekend) has the leeway to get rid of Pilane. While it is now clear that Saleshando is now the UDC VP, by virtue of his position as a BCP leader, the same cannot be said about BMD. The party has been engulfed with power struggles since the Gantsi Congress in 2015 leading to one group led by Ndaba Gaolathe bolting out to form Alliance for Progressives (AP).
Sidney Pilane, who led another group, has also thereafter relinquished his position in bid to contest in the coming congress as sanctioned by the mother body of UDC. This follows the disputed July congress which was swamped by stone hurling, dogs and knife stabbing of fellow BMD members resulting in the loss of a life.
When speaking to Weekend Post this week the UDC VP Saleshando admitted that there are some calls for Pilane’s rejection in UDC precisely because his detractors believe his “credibility” will dent the UDC rendering it “unsellable” to the electorates. It is said that Pilane became an adversary to some in the opposition circles the moment he provided legal services for the Directorate of Intelligence and Security Services (DISS) Director General Isaac Kgosi.
Pilane has nevertheless defended himself saying that he provides legal representation to anyone in need whether from the DISS, or any organisation even from any political formation. The UDC leader Duma Boko nonetheless never spares the spy organization when he takes to the microphone and has previously even went on stating that they will “disband” DISS once they assume state power as it’s a “useless body.” According to Saleshando, the debatable Pilane is beyond their reach as UDC leadership and in addition they therefore cannot interfere or dictate to BMD to discard him if they so wish.
“If the perception that Pilane is not politically credible holds water, then it’s in the interest of the BMD members who will vote at the next congress to reject him accordingly,” Saleshando told Weekend Post. “It is for BMD stalwarts to vote him out of the presidency if they don’t want him at the UDC leadership,” the BCP leader said. He stressed that if the party fails to remove him at the individual party level, they will then continue with him as another UDC Vice President regardless of whether some believe he is not appealing to the electorates or not.
Warns AP that time is running out
The BCP President also warned the newly formed Alliance for Progressives (AP) that time is racing against them to join one opposition block which remains the only viable option to defeat the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP). “We call on AP that the ball is in their court as they are the only ones left outside UDC in the opposition,” he highlighted. He pointed out that if they decide to join UDC, there will be more discussions around the issue of constituencies and it can be resolved amicably to suit both parties’ needs.
“The issue of constituency allocation is a subject to negotiations, not only to BMD but others in the UDC as well. BMD must be realistic and should be able to relinquish those that are not practically winnable for those remaining at the BMD and allocate them to AP. We remain open and ready to undertake such exercise.” He added “we should do this with the recognition that AP was never part of the UDC talks, but if they decide to join us opportunities will be crafted.”
He continued to state that the AP should make sure they decide before the Primary elections commence or otherwise the bus will leave without them. Saleshando added that it has always been AP position that whoever does not join the UDC should be rejected at the polls and they have always articulated it very well and hope they will leave by their word. If AP continues and decides to go it alone, Saleshando said it will lead to opposition vote splits in which the main beneficiary, as has always been, will be the ruling BDP. Meanwhile, it is still unclear whether AP, if re-joins the UDC which chances are it will be comprising of Pilane of the BMD, whom they left the party as a reason, will be able to work with him again at the umbrella party.
On the recent UDC countrywide public rallies
Saleshando said that the recent countrywide public rallies were intended to give people re-assurances that “all is well” in the UDC despite the mass group departure that formed the AP though most of which were from the BMD. “As leaders we achieved more than we expected. The response is awesome and overwhelming. We could see and sense that people across the country are more than ready to vote in the coming 2019 General Elections,” the UDC VP insisted.
However Saleshando still has not yet found a constituency
Meanwhile, the former two time Gaborone Central legislator conceded that he is still hunting for a constituency to contest on during the 2019 General Elections. He said next year finding the constituency will be a priority. “Yes I have not yet found a constituency and I think this issue will be a priority next year. Some constituencies have already approached me. But most people only talk through informal engagements on the matter.”
He also took time to clarify that he has never expressed interest in contesting Maun East constituency which is in the hands of another BCP stalwart in Keretetse Kekgonegile as he performed exceptionally well in the last elections. Instead he said some party members made the calls for him to contest in the constituency and others also opposed and both are within their rights. In terms of Gaborone South, he also clarified that he was never approached to contest in the area. With regard to the BPP, he said they have less numbers in the UDC but makes a lot of noise.
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BTC launches the 3rd Francistown Marathon 2024 and handover proceeds to the 2nd Francistown Marathon beneficiaries
Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) has announced that its 3rd Francistown Marathon will be held on Saturday 20th April 2024 at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown. The BTC Francistown Marathon is officially recognised by World Athletics and a Comrades Marathon Qualifier will offer race categories ranging from 42.2km, 21.1 km, 10km, 5km fun run, 5km peace run for children and has introduced a 5km and 10km categories for wheelchairs athletics.
BTC also used this opportunity to announce beneficiaries who received donations from proceeds made from the 2nd BTC Francistown Marathon that was held on April 23rd 203. BTC donated a play area, plastic chairs and wooden tables for pupils worth a total of thirty eight thousand, one hundred and three pula, fifty thebe each (P38, 103.50) to Monarch Primary School, Tatitown Primary School, Mahube Primary School and Gulubane Primary School. Ditladi and Boikhutso clinics each received a donation of benches, television sets and 10, 000 litre water tanks worth thirty seven thousan, eight hundred and ninety eight pula (P 37, 898.00). Additionally, BTC also donated seventy thousand pula (P70,000.00) to their marathon technical partner, Francistown Athletics Club (FAC) which will be used for daily operations as well as to purchase equipment for the club.
The BTC Francistown Marathon aligns seamlessly with BTC’s corporate social investment programme, administered through the BTC Foundation. This programme is a testament to BTC’s dedication to community development, focusing on key areas such as health promotion. The marathon, now in its third year, not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also channels all proceeds to carefully chosen charities as part of BTC’s commitment to impactful and sustainable projects.
Speaking at the launch, the BTC Managing Director Mr Anthony Masunga stated that the marathon underscores BTC’s commitment to community upliftment and corporate social investment. He stated that “the annual event which has been in existence since 2016, having taken a break due to the covid and other logistical issues, is instrumental to the economic upliftment of the city of Francistown”. He congratulated all the beneficiaries for having been nominated to receive the donations, adding that “the donation of proceeds from the 2023 marathon aims to highlight BTC’s commitment and heart for Batswana and our continued impact in the different industries”.
He further stated that through this marathon, “we demonstrate our steadfast commitment to having a good influence on our communities, this event is a manifestation of our dedication to promoting education and a healthier, more active society”. He concluded by stating that “BTC looks forward to another successful marathon that will leave a lasting positive influence on the greater Francistown community and the country at large” he said.
Giving welcome remarks, the Councillor for Donga, Honourable Morulaganyi Mothowabarwa stated that “he is ecstatic that BTC is collaborating with the City of Francistown on yet another installment of the Marathon”. He continued to offer his support to BTC to enable this marathon to continue over the coming years, stating that the “CSI element is a welcome development that helps empower our communities”, he said.
The 3rd BTC Francistown Marathon is officially open for registrations and athletes may use the following platforms to register and pay; through Smega by dialling *173# and choosing opton 5, then choose Option 3 for the Francistown marathon, at any BTC store or by visiting the BTC website and clicking on the BTC Francistown Marathon and choosing the relevant options.
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Letsholo lauds President Masisi’s digitization in fight against corruption
Thapelo Letsholo, Member of Parliament for Kanye North, delivered a moving speech at the United Nations International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration, praising President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption. Letsholo highlighted the importance of embracing digitalization in governance as a crucial step in curbing corrupt practices.
According to Letsholo, the implementation of digital systems in government services can significantly reduce direct interactions between citizens and officials, which often serve as fertile grounds for corruption. By minimizing these opportunities for illicit activities, the efficiency and transparency of public services can be enhanced. Letsholo pointed to Estonia’s success in digital governance as an example, where public services have become more transparent, accessible, and efficient.
The MP commended President Masisi’s commitment to digitalization and E-Governance, emphasizing that it aligns with global anti-corruption standards. He called for full support and active participation from all sectors to ensure the success of this initiative.
Letsholo also stressed the importance of improving detection methods and refining whistleblower laws to effectively combat corruption. He highlighted the unseen and unspoken facets of corruption as its lifelines, emphasizing the need for robust detection mechanisms and a system that encourages and protects whistleblowers.
Addressing the societal role in fighting corruption, Letsholo focused on the crucial role of everyday citizens and civil servants who often witness corrupt practices firsthand. He acknowledged the existing reluctance to report corruption due to the perceived risks of repercussions. To change this narrative, Letsholo advocated for creating an environment where staying silent is deemed more detrimental than speaking out. He called for a cultural shift where the potential benefits of exposing corruption outweigh the risks, ensuring that whistleblowers are protected and feel secure in coming forward.
Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a system that not only detects and reports corruption but also supports those who stand against it. He expressed hope that under President Masisi’s digitalization initiatives, the future of governance in Botswana will be characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability. Letsholo’s speech resonated with the sentiments of hope and determination that permeated the commemoration, emphasizing the need for unity in the fight against corruption.
In summary, Letsholo lauded President Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption, highlighting its potential to curb corrupt practices, enhance efficiency and transparency in public services, and align with global anti-corruption standards. He emphasized the importance of improving detection methods, refining whistleblower laws, and creating an environment where speaking out against corruption is encouraged and protected. Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a future characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance.
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FaR property assets value clock P1.47 billion
FaR Property Company (FPC) Limited, a property investment company listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, has recently announced its exceptional financial results for the year 2023. The company’s property asset value has risen to P1.47 billion, up from P1.42 billion in the previous year.
FPC has a diverse portfolio of properties, including retail, commercial, industrial, and residential properties in Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. The company owns a total of 186 properties, generating rental revenues from various sectors. In 2023, the company recorded rental revenues of P11 million from residential properties, P62 million from industrial properties, and P89 million from commercial properties. Overall, the company’s total revenues increased by 9% to P153 million, while profit before tax increased by 22% to P136 million, and operating profit increased by 11% to P139 million.
One notable achievement for FPC is the low vacancy rate across its properties, which stands at only 6%. This is particularly impressive considering the challenging trading environment. The company attributes this success to effective lease management and the leasing of previously vacant properties in South Africa. FPC’s management expressed satisfaction with the results, highlighting the resilience of the company in the face of ongoing macroeconomic challenges.
The increase in profit before tax can be attributed to both an increase in income and effective control of operating expenses. FPC managed to achieve these results with fewer employees, demonstrating the company’s efficiency. The headline earnings per linked unit also saw an improvement, reaching 26.92 thebe, higher than the previous year.
Looking ahead, FPC remains confident in its competitiveness and growth prospects. The company possesses a substantial land bank, which it plans to develop strategically as opportunities arise. FPC aims for managed growth, focusing on consumer-driven developments and ensuring the presence of supportive tenants. By maintaining this approach, the company believes it can sustainably grow its property portfolio and remain competitive in the market.
In terms of the macroeconomic environment, FPC noted that inflation rates are decreasing towards the 3% to 6% range approved by the Bank of Botswana. This is positive news for the company, as it hopes for further decreases in interest rates. However, the fluctuating fuel prices, influenced by global events such as the war in Ukraine and oil output reductions by Russia and other Middle Eastern countries, continue to impact businesses, including some of FPC’s tenants.
FPC’s property portfolio includes notable assets such as a shopping mall in Francistown with Choppies Hyper as the anchor tenant, Borogo Mall located on the A33 main road near the Kazungula ferry crossing, and various industrial and commercial properties in Gaborone leased to Choppies, Senn Foods, and Clover Botswana. The company also owns a shopping mall in Mafikeng and Rustenburg in South Africa.
The majority of FPC’s properties, 85%, are located in Botswana, followed by 12% in South Africa and 3% in Zambia. With its strong financial performance, competitive position, and strategic land bank, FPC is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the property market.