Ntuane will overhaul BDP tenderboys mentality
Ntuane will declare business interests, undertake in writing to Khama
There seems to be a strong difference of opinion among the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) leadership incumbents and hopefuls, over who can and cannot be eligible to do business with the party.
This hot potato subject came to life following a vow made by Botsalo Ntuane, a candidate for the position of secretary general, that he will not do any business with the BDP once elected to the party’s high position. The party’s elective congress is scheduled for Mmadinare in July.
Ntuane has set tongues wagging with his 22 points BDP reform agenda which is essentially a response to BDP’s longstanding problems. Ntuane’s reform agenda is a careful, strategic and well thought out plan to counter the cancer that is eating away the BDP.
Foremost among his election promises is that once elected, he will not do any business with the party as has been the case with the past holders of the postion who earned the infamous tag name, ‘BDP tenderpreneurs.’ When the reigning party central committee was voted in, many commentators observed that the party had fallen into to hands of money men.
This was not helped by comments attributted to the party Secretary General Mpho Balopi, that: “It was our turn to eat”, a remark that angered many BDP diehards. There was widespread acrimony about the direction which the party would take under such a leadership of personal interests and the party’s dismal perfomance at the 2014 general elections proved the complainants right.
Ntuane’s decision comes in response to a discussion document his campaign team has circulated to party members where he outlines 22 issues which they think should form part of the BDP’s reform agenda if the ruling party is to reverse the gains made by the main opposition, Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) in the last general elections.
The BDP is expected to face stiff competition in the 2019 elections with the opposition confident that the increasingly unpopular BDP which delivered its worst perfomance since its formation, will finally bite the dust and lose power.
In the Team Botsalo Ntuane discussion document, party members are invited to give feedback and other suggestions for inclusion in the document which is Ntuane’s vehicle for the BDP congress. Part of the feedback is that Ntuane should be an ethical and fair Secretary general.
A handler confirmed to this publication that it is for this reason that Ntuane has undertaken to “not to do any business with the BDP but rather facilitate opportunities for other party members, especially the youth and women, who seriously need empowerment.”
A Team Botsalo Ntuane member has confirmed that although it is not a requirement, their candidate will upon election, voluntarily register his business interests with the Secretariat and make and undertaking in writing to the president, that he will not transact business or compete for tenders with other democrats.
It is believed that this move is meant to demonstrate that Ntuane is going into office to serve and help the party and not to enrich himself through its resources. Ntuane is facing competition from a Gaborone based activist, Olebeng Ngwakwena, and his former campaign manager, Gaotlhaetse Matlhabaphiri, who ditched his principal a few weeks ago.
It was recently reported that the BDP spent multi millions in the last general elections with most of the money going into the pockets of a few selected democrats for providing services and goods. Some democrats have complained that certain officials serving in key positions in the Central Committee lined their pockets during the elections by monopolising party tenders and closing out other party members.
WeekendPost sought the views of the party secretary general, Mpho Balopi, regarding this matter, who said: “Our view is that as long as everything is done in a transparent manner, anybody can benefit from the party’s tenders, irrespective of his position in the party,” he said.
Balopi who won a few tenders from the party, says, “We are Batswana first and we are equally eligible to benefit from the party.” “I cannot be excluded or discriminated on because of my priviledge to have been elected to the party’s leadership positions. If all processes and prcedures have been followed, I think we all have to qualify,” he said.
Former cabinet Minister, Ramadeluka Seretse, who is vying for the Chairmanship of the party, however differs, saying the BDP should as a party in power, align its guiding documents to societal ethics as well as the cardinal principles espoused in various national legislations. However, his contender for the chairmanship, Tebelopele Seretse sits on the fence, on this particular matter.
“I have not been around and I am still learning about what has been happening within the party. But I have obviously heard a lot of things pertaining to that. My view is that such should be open to all BDP members. But transparency and strict measures should be put in place to guard against any form of abuse of office or cases of conflict of interest that may arise,” she said.
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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.