BTV producer has the last laugh in court
In a classic David and Goliath sequel, Botswana Television (BTV) producer, Koketso Joshua Ntopolelang this week walked out of court a victorious man. Ntopolelang won a Court of Appeal (CoA) bid wherein he sought the court to scupper his ‘dishonest’ election year transfer.
The court set aside his redeployment to the Programs Section and the transfer to the formerly Ministry of Minerals Energy and Water Resources (MMEWR). In January 2014, Ntopolelang was shifted to a less strategic division in BTV after his transfer to MMEWR was foiled by an urgent Industrial Court order.
This redeployment succeeded in extracting him from the News and Current Affairs Section which is primarily responsible for producing current affairs content. In a lead up to the redeployment, he had been apparently told by one Lesole Obonye, a Broadcasting Services Director that he was not trusted enough to head BTV’s News and Current Affairs Section, especially since it was election year (2014).
Ntopolelang’s court papers seen by WeekendPost state that Obonye remarked to Ntopolelang: “Gase gore gare bone bokgoni jwa gago jaaka o bona DPS (Deputy Permanent Secretary) a kgona go go assigner high profile assignments. Re ntse re diilwe ke go bua le bagolo and we were waiting for instructions…kana ke ngwaga wa ditlhopho. Ga se gore gare bone bokgoni jwa gago…ba batla yo ba mo tshephang.” the document reads in part.
Literally translated, Obonye told Ntopolelang that, “It is not that we cannot see your competence, as you can see, the DPS sometimes gives you high profile assignments. The delay was due to discussions with elders and we were waiting for instructions…mind you this is election year. It is not that we don’t acknowledge your competence, but they want somebody they can trust.”
Ntopolelang further noted that Obonye mentioned the phrase ‘ke ngwaga wa ditlhopo (It is election year)’ three times. However, this Thursday Ntopolelang emerged on top in his court skirmish with his bosses. A panel of three CoA Justices comprising Isaac Lesetedi, C Howie and Lord Alistair Abernathy found that Ntopolelang’s employer, being the Secretary in the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, Kebonye Moepeng had not properly consulted him regarding his transfer.
They observed that even though the judge at the previous court determined and held that Ntopolelang’s transfer to MMEWR was preceded by consultation, he had however made no finding in relation to his redeployment to another department within BTV. They further noted that in this particular case there was no material dispute between the parties as to what the law requires in relation to consultations in cases of this kind.
“The dispute was whether in the particular circumstances of this case the legal requirements have been met,” CoA determined. The trio also noted that there was no suggestion by Ntopolelang that the consultation had to take any particular form and that it was accepted that it was for the court to examine the facts and circumstances of the case and determine whether a proper consultation took place.
They highlighted that in consultation, “what follows is not exhaustive and that such consultation is not to be treated perfunctorily or as mere formality. It entails a genuine invitation to the person concerned to say what he wishes to say and a genuine consideration of what he said.”
They further continued: “Sufficient time must be given to enable the person concerned to say what he wishes to say and how to say it.” The judges also determined that sufficient time must then be available to allow the decision maker to consider what has been said and that all this must be done before a decision maker reaches his decision. If his mind is already made up before the consultation process is complete, that is not compatible with a proper consultation.”
The justices further ruled that in regard to the facts of the case it is clear that the legal requirements for a proper consultation were not met either in respect of the decision to transfer Ntopolelang to MMWER or in respect of the decision to redeploy him within the Broadcasting Services.
They also chided that it was not sufficient for Moepeng and Lesole to rely on Ntopolelang to take the initiative in commenting on the stated intention of his superiors to transfer and redeploy him. On the contrary, they stated, it was for them to take initiative and to keep an open mind until the consultation process was complete.
But neither at the meeting on 14 August 2014 nor at the meeting of 10 September 2014 was Ntopolelang given a genuine invitation to comment. Still less was an appropriate timetable set within which he could offer any comments and they could thereafter consider them before coming to a decision.
Indeed from what occurred at the meeting 14 August 2014 and the first Moepeng’s letter of 22 August 2014 it seems to me that she had prior to the meeting of 14 august decided that Ntopolelang was to be transferred to MMWER, the only aspect that remained for discussion was the date the transfer would take place.
They further said that, similarly it seems clear that it had been decided prior to the meeting on 10 September that Ntopolelang was to be redeployed within the Broadcasting services. The very next day, a day before the hearing in the Industrial Court as to whether the interim interdict was to be granted on 5 September 2014 was to be confirmed, Obonye wrote his letter of 11 September.
They further said that even though his redeployment within Broadcasting Services was not illegal, “in my opinion it would be stretching credulity too far to say that it was altogether unconnected with what the Industrial Court might do on 12 September.” Ntopolelang was represented by attorney, Mboki Chilisa of Collins Chilisa Consultants.
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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.