BMD proposed reforms revealed
The Botswana Movement for Democracy (BMD) faction led by President Ndaba Gaolathe and his deputy, Wynter Mmolotsi is lobbying for support for proposed reforms to dilute the powers of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and give members power to vote on major decisions.
This publication has established from highly placed sources within BMD that the Gaolathe/Mmolotsi faction has tabled a host of proposals for the imminent Special Congress. Gaolathe/Mmolotsi faction won support from branches to convene a Special Congress for the beleaguered movement. More than 24 branches, from the required minimum of 19 have written a letter to NEC requesting for Special Congress.
WeekendPost has established that, top among priorities of Gaolathe/Mmolotsi group, which is believed to be enjoying the support of ordinary members is the review of the party constitution. The NEC will be stripped some of its privileges, including that of making major decisions.
“The party wants to introduce a mechanism which will allow ordinary members to participate in major decisions, not just allow a few people to decide,” said the source.
The party, this publication has learnt, is planning on introducing a referendum where members will go on a voting exercise to show consent or disagreement with a matter which will be the subject of discussion at the time.
The Gaolathe/Mmolotsi group is reportedly rubbed the wrong way by the status quo, where they believed the party is held at ransom by a few NEC members at the expense of the aspirations of the general membership. The party’s top two believe that the BMD NEC has been captured and is controlled by outside forces.
“The concern is that Pilane is dictating terms and gives instructions on what should be done and what should not be done,” the source added.
Pilane’s association with the country’s top spy, Isaac Kgosi has been the major reason for him being rejected. The Gaolathe/Mmolotsi group are of the view that allowing Pilane to control BMD will be tantamount to being controlled by the regime they are fighting.
Forming part of the reforms is giving the party president powers to instil discipline within the movement. The president will be given the power to suspend any member but there will be restrictions with regards to the expulsion of members. The power to expel members will solely be left to the party’s national congress.
Initially, the group had proposed that the president be given both powers to suspend and expel members, but Gaolathe was in opposition of the proposition, arguing that it would be if the party president is also given the power to expel members.
Disbanding of lobby lists
BMD also wants a system in place, which will discourage aspiring NEC candidates from contesting using lobby lists. The party will introduce candidates’ debate and give branches and regions the power to summon candidates and stage a debate, in an effort to give delegates the opportunity to choose candidates to support based on what they promise to offer to the party.
“The branches or regions will not be allowed to host only one candidate if more candidates are contesting, unless the other candidates chose not to come for the debate,” said the source.
The lobby list arrangement has become popular in Botswana, and through it, candidates are voted in mostly through a group manner rather than individually. In most cases, Central Committee or executive party positions are won through lobby lists, resulting generally in marginalisation of the losing team.
The Gaolathe/Mmolotsi group are of the view that the lobby list, though permissible currently has the potential to polarise the party in the long run.
The Modubule/Mangole faction is however of the view that, the current impasse in the party is a result of failure to accept defeat by the group sympathising with Gaolathe at last year’s national congress. It is however believed that ahead of the 2015 Gantsi Congress, Mmolotsi sympathised with the Modubule/Mangole team but broke ranks with the faction when the issue of Pilane’s return to the party cropped in.
Mmolotsi has been instrumental in the presidential tour, which has resulted in him and Gaoalthe winning support for the convention of a Special Congress.
Modubule, Mangole will not be expelled
Although tempers are flaring within the Gaolathe/Mmolotsi camp, with some calling for the expulsion of Modubule and Mangole, Gaolathe has reportedly told his team not to overreact. This publication has been informed that, his priority has been to have a new team, which he believes without Modubule/Mangole would be able to run the party affairs in the interest of party members.
However, Goalathe is said to be feeling ‘disrespected’ by the duo and agreed that the party president should be given some sort of privileges to restore unity in the movement.
Modubule, Mangole resist congress
The Modubule/Mangole faction has made it clear that it does not support the Special Congress for fear that it will not solve the infightings but widen the rift. Alternatively, the group had preferred for the factions to be brought to one table in an effort to reconcile them.
Modubule/Mangole group had hinted that, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) President Duma Boko and Botswana Federation of Public Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU) could intervene.
This publication has however gathered that Boko and BOFEPUSU are clear that BMD should refer the matter to its members through the Special Congress. Weekend Post has also established that, Lebang Mpotokwane, the convenor of talks which led to UDC formation and key member of the party is in support of a solution which would come from party members.
With branches having already written letters calling for a Special Congress to be convened, the Modubule/Mangole faction has been disarmed, a result which may see them thrown out of the NEC after the congress.
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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.