BDP�s recruitment spin leaked
BCP President, Demelang Saleshando and BDP Secretary General, Botsalo Ntuane
The ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP)’s activists are using some government funded agencies’ services to lure opposition cadres into their fold, WeekendPost can reveal.
While these agencies were established to address the need for logical and all-inclusive support for the development of citizens’ small, medium and large scale enterprises through loans it seems they are being manipulated by some sections of the ruling party.
Agencies like CEDA, which are known to be autonomous offer loan funding for capital expenditure, stock or working capital in new and existing business ventures, and most revealing is that it is controlled by a Board of Directors appointed by the Botswana Government.
WeekendPost has in its possession an audio clip illustrating the ruling party’s recruitment drive. In the recorded clip, BDP activists insist to an unsuspecting opposition member to come up with a business idea so that they will be “easily” funded by organisations in the clutches of government.
“Comrade, what I emphasise to you is that; you come up with any business proposal, and you present it as an application. You will see.”
In the clandestine clip, the BDP activists, former Councillor for Monarch East Raoboy Mpuang and newly recruited BDP activist who was also a Botswana Congress Party (BCP) parliamentary candidate for Nata/Gweta Ditiro Majadibodu wanted to recruit Vaka Mooketsi an ex-contender of Botsalano ward under Botswana Congress Party (BCP) – where he narrowly lost – which also falls under the clutches of Francistown West.
“Listen to me, I will never forsake you comrade, if you have a business idea and in your defection (to join us), and say you are publicly and officially received by the Vice President Mokgweetsi Masisi here at your home ground- who in their right mind can reject or turn down your applications anywhere?” one of the two BDP cadres pointed out to Mooketsi.
“We have a good government that wants to take care of its citizens as long as you are willing to stand up for yourselves. Try exiting a non-supportive environment, go to a supportive environment,” the recording captured.
These guys are willing to assist anyhow possible, am telling the truth, they stated to the probable recruit. “Politics must work for us. So what you should think is what you can do. Even if it’s not coming from you. Just bring something. They say today’s politics is mostly focused on what you benefit out of it. You should reap something out of it.”
They said sometimes we don’t benefit from the system not as we are opposition activists but because the opposition leaders kill our thinking capabilities.
According to the duo, they convinced the BCP activist that one thing they should understand is that the deal is not all about starting a shop/business but also about the “contacts” or “network” that you should have in life. “It’s all about establishing contacts,” they emphasised while pointing out that it is only that this government do it carefully.
As per dictates of automatic succession Masisi will be the president in 2018, they asserted while highlighting that everyone now wants to be close to him because of that. He knows your ward (Botsalano) and as you know it was under the watchful of his late brother Tshelang Masisi(ex-MP for Francistown West) and therefore he can easily identify with it, they stressed in the shady recruitment initiative.
The potential recruit was also told that BDP has one of the best programmes and policies in the world while they added that; “that’s why you see a youth with no political alignment applying for a programme likeLivestock Management and Infrastructure Development (LIMID) and then he is approved right away.”
An example of a success story they said in the initiative that was about people like BDP Secretary General Botsalo Ntuane who it was said are not superior per se to anyone but that they work hard.
“They don’t sit with their brains. They initiate.”
Ntuane who formed BDP splinter party, Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD) although later re-traced his steps to the BDP has also benefitted from loan through his lucrative Prime Time media company.
The BDP SG confirmed to this publication that indeed “on yes I was once granted half a million loan back in 2009 which was long paid off.”
According to Ntuane, his position is that BDP government empowerment policies never discriminate on the basis of partisanship affiliation.
“In order for these false and mischievous accusations against BDP to end I think the time has come to publish the names of all past and active politicians from all parties who benefitted from government policies.” He said the time has come so that once and for all this matter is put to rest.
He maintained that in any case because these programmes and policies are funded by tax payers’ money why should the names of beneficiaries, especially politicians be kept a secret. “That only leads to suspicions, slander and falsehoods.”
The former BMD Vice president said then that re-joining BDP was the most difficult decision in his life.
Meanwhile, in the recruitment clip Majadibodu also said he recalls that while at BCP he thought he will never join BDP unless he was “bewitched”. “I know it’s a difficult decision for you to take but believe me even with myself it was also arduous to come up to a conclusion to join BDP. But was worth it.”
The former BCP Nata/Gweta parliamentary hopeful said to the BCP member that their leader is the only one making thrives at their (members) expense and courtesy of BDP. “Look at BCP President Dumelang (Saleshado), he is multi-millionaire owing to the ruling BDP government programmes. On annual basis he gets government tenders worth more than 5 million. That is why he can afford to buy himself a BMW worth 1.3 million which is similar to the one chauffeuring ministers.”
He continued: that is why he lives in a 3 storey building of the standard of 5 star hotel in Phakalane. That is why Dumelang can trade with other countries. It’s because of supportive BDP policies.
But the very same guy why can’t he raise some entrepreneurs’ within his party (BCP) and empower them?
“Instead of Dumelang hiring a bus at 1.2 million touring the country alone in it, why not utilise that 1.2 million pula in up skilling say around 10 youths and show Batswana that he can take them out of poverty and that he really means business. So that we can have model young people that symbolises that it’s not all about ourselves.”
According to the recruiters, “so it’s all about Dumelang and him alone. These guys it’s all about themselves. Have you ever see Dumelang donate P 1000 to anyone to campaign? Or to donate to a certain ward to go to BCP congress?”
However Saleshando quashed the allegations in an interview with this publication stating that “I don’t have a BMW and don’t stay in a triple storey house” and “have never tendered for a single government tender.”
But in BDP, they highlighted that certain individuals can be given financial support to go on BDP activities but they have never been part of that as they feel just satisfied. “What I want is to think and have an idea.”
But note that, they told the prospective BDP member that its’ not an issue of you been given hard cash or anything but what you should do is you come up with any proposal and you present it.“BDP can’t give you money but at least can allocate you a tender somewhere in the country as an award for joining the party so that you can sustain yourself.”
You see it’s about your life, in the party you are affiliated to; do you have a better life? They asked rhetorically.
“To be honest as one of the people who have been recruited by the BDP, I have never received not even a single cent, but BDP like any organisation, when there is nothing you don’t want to do for yourself people will end up likening you to the likes of Molefabangwe.”
But if you are a go-getter and proactive and come with initiatives to CEDA you will be most entitled as compared to other citizens, they explained.“Its two-ways you can either join BDP or opposition which will spell the end of your political career. So you have to be careful. It will depend.”
In terms of political interference, he said no politicians can influence them to tilt the scales in favour of anyone to approve their loans – particularly for political interest. “Just for starters we do not ask applicants their political membership, religious or anything like. We just want their omang that’s it. Then we assess the project based on its merit.”
Meanwhile BDP recently recruited BCP affiliates Lotty Manyapedza, Virginia Masole, Thato Osupile, and himself Ditiro Majadibodu in the same style and manner, and lately law maker for Okavango constituency Bagalatia Aarone who was said to have also benefitted from CEDA in his “defection deal.”
Aarone has however said he was entitled to the loan like any other Motswana and it was accepted based on merit.
When reached for comment Mpuang said he was in a meeting while Majadibodu confirmed that BCP’s Vaka Mooketsi is indeed one of the people he has met this year in their recruitment drive.
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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.