Nasha says Khama held MPs at ransom
Former Speaker of the National Assembly, Margaret Nasha is not happy with the treatment she got from President Lt Gen Ian Khama ahead of Parliament’s election of Speaker, a position she lost to Gladys Kokorwe on Wednesday.
Speaking at a Press conference at Gaborone sun hotel in the capital city on Thursday morning, Nasha who lost the Speaker race to Gladys Kokorwe the previous day, testified that the ruling party members of Parliament were held at ransom and left with no option but to vote for the President’s desired candidate.
“Their actions at least to me were a clear indication of the insignificant length and breaths that the BDP leadership will go, to hold democratically elected Members of Parliament (MP) at ransom. This ladies and gentlemen is a red flag. Make no mistake about it. I am very much aware that the BDP MPs who had previously vouched to support my candidacy found themselves in a very difficult situation,” Nasha pointed out.
President Ian Khama Seretse Khama, who was sworn in for his second term in office a fortnight ago, is alleged to have this week held the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) members of Parliament at ransom and demanded that they vote for his choice of Speaker or he calls for fresh elections.
The MPs who are mostly new comers to the house and have won the October 24th general elections with very slim margins could therefore not risk a re-run and allegedly had to do what was demanded from them.
“I was thoroughly disappointed to learn that my party the BDP went to extreme measures to undermine the merits of a secret ballot by intimidating and whipping their members of Parliament into submission, to vote in a prescribed manner,” Nasha pointed out.
Khama is said to have made the move, after he lost a court case in which his party and the Attorney general attempted to manipulate the standing orders. According to Nasha, the BDP legal counsel, Collins and Newman sent her a letter on the eve of elections in which she was requested to bend the Parliament standing orders. According to Nasha, the letter threatened a legal suit in case Nasha refused to manipulate the standing orders.
During the eleventh parliament which ended last Month, Nasha advocated for the independence of Parliament and even facilitated the drafting of the bills which sought to reduce the Presidential powers in as far as the control of Parliament is concerned.
The bills which are yet to be tabled seek Parliament to be responsible for recruitment and dismissal of its staff including the clerk and deputy clerk. The bill would further require the clerk to directly report to the Speaker not the President as it is the case to date.
The standing orders which were challenged in court this week were introduced to Parliament last year as part of the process of delivering Parliament from the control and the manipulation of the President and Nasha admits that, were they successful in tabling the bills which were blocked by the Executive towards the closure of the tenth Parliament, her mission in Parliament would have been accomplished.
“We needed to bring bills to Parliament. We have prepared the bills. They are there in the shelves of Parliament and they were to go to the eleventh Parliament. That was the last brick before the roofing was completed,” Nasha pointed out.
Her hope is however that some of the backbenchers who were in the previous Parliament would carry on the baton.
“Let it be known that it is the duty of Parliament to hold the Executive to account. And our Parliament should not be an exception to this rule,” Nasha added.
But most MPs who backed Nasha on her quests to make Parliament Independent of the Office of the Presidents were defeated during the general elections and the few that remained have now been absorbed into Cabinet positions which would make it very difficult for them to make a move that could offend the President.
“If the eleventh Parliament changes the standing orders, I would not be there, but it would come as a shock. What bothered me was that decisions taken under my leadership were under threat,” Nasha explained further.
Her last hope is that her successor, Gladys Kokorwe who had been a deputy Speaker before would see to it that the spirit of making Parliament totally independent is realised.
“I hope that she will do all that is best for the nation in keeping Parliament free from intimidation and the grasp of the Executive who during the tenth Parliament have shown resentment to the philosophy of the independence of Parliament viewing it as obstructive and interfering with their mandate,” Nasha could only hope.
Meanwhile it appears President Khama still has steep hills to climb as he need to restore public confidence following all this drama. He also faces stronger opposition and resentment from some ousted party grassroots who are currently in Nashal’s camp.
Nasha who joined the BDP in 1979 says she has no intention of contesting for party positions at the next congress but promises to “fixing things” from within.
“As you know when one door closes many other doors open so I am going to new doors. I have many things to do. When I joined the BDP I did so voluntarily and I was not recruited by anybody. I joined the BDP of my own volition in 1979 and there is nothing that would make me desert the party for now. I believe in fixing things from inside. You never know what the future holds,” Nasha maintained.
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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.