Key factors that could shape Botswana politics
Masire
Botswana has just emerged from one of the most contested elections in her history. For the first time the opposition has suffocated the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) to an extent that the party failed to score a two-thirds majority in Parliament. Out of 57 elected Members of Parliament, the BDP has 37; the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has 17; and the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) has three.
Tati West legislator, Samson Guma Moyo has in the immediate past Parliament desired to table the subject of direct election of the president. This week he told this publication that the subject of direct election of the President will first have to be sold to the BDP members before it reaches Parliament.
He indicated that while he may have wishes, first the motion should be sponsored by the party before it is debated in Parliament. He said the BDP National Council and Congress will first have to deliberate on the subject so that it is agreed to or rejected depending on the views of the party members.
According to Moyo the subject has quiet some weight because it calls for the amendment of the constitution therefore it must be appreciated by party members before being subjected to Parliament scrutiny. He indicated that it was long agreed that subjects which are weighty in substance should first be appreciated at party level.
Meanwhile President Lt Gen Ian Khama is expected to announce his Vice President as soon as the High Court decides on the matter in which the Presidency and the National Assembly are at loggerheads over the modus operandi of conducting voting in Parliament.
Many speculate that the decision will make or break the ruling party depending on the choice of candidate. The incoming Vice President will feel the direct consequences of direct election of the president should it sail through. Former President, Sir Ketumile Masire says he is against the arrangement where Vice President automatically becomes President without going through an election.
The BDP Congress and National Council are expected to chat the way forward as far as the ruling party is concerned. There has been talk of some senior members of the party willing to challenge whoever will be appointed Vice President for the position of President when Khama leaves. It is very likely that the next two congresses could spell a lot of changes in the BDP.
Observers point out that whatever the BDP does will also be influenced by the shape and status of the opposition which appears to be ready for full cooperation. The opposition parties’ quest for unity is motivating by the fact that the BDP is a minority government by popular vote despite scooping the majority of Parliamentary seats. The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) and the Botswana Congress Party (BCP) are expected to agree on the subject of unity in preparation for 2019.
PROFESSOR MONAGENG MOGALAKWE’S VIEWS
University of Botswana of Botswana lecturer, Professor Monageng Mogalakwe says Guma Moyo’s motion on Direct Election of President is a good idea. “I like the idea of the direct election of the President, especially the American type.
Such a directly elected President should appoint his own management team, or cabinet from outside the Legislature But it is dishonest, disingenuous and opportunistic to pretend that this idea is original. This is a well-known position of the Botswana National Front (BNF) which has appeared in its various policy documents on governance,” he said.
He points out that the motion should not be narrowly focused on the election of the President, but seek a comprehensive review of the Constitution, and adapt it to the current political trends in the region and globally.
“For example, there is a need to detach and decouple the Parliament of Botswana from the Office of the President to which it is currently fettered. There must be a clear separation of powers between the Executive and the Legislature. The Executive, while having authority and power to run the country on day to day matters, must be accountable to Parliament on both policy and operational issues,” he said.
According to Mogalakwe, recommendations to make Parliament Independent of the Executive are contained in the Bahiti Temane Report of 2003 on the Study of On the Independence of the Parliament of Botswana. This report is gathering dust on the shelves of Parliament Library. The so-called reforms by MmaNasha are based on that report, and the right thing to do is to have the Report tabled for debate by the this Eleventh Parliament.
Commenting on President Khama’s Vice President choice, Mogalakwe said: “This is more than a BDP internal matter, it is about Khama successor. The BDP lost the opportunity to entrust its leadership to the more experienced BDP cadres, but opportunistically donated (ba e shoma) the leadership to Ian Khama, apparently to tap on his assumed charisma and political magnetism. The 2004, 2009 and 2014 elections have revealed that Ian Khama has no such charisma and magnetic appeal. BDP would have been better off under Kedilkwe than Khama. The BDP needs to look for a leader who will revive the fortunes of the party, after Khama recklessly squandered them.”
On decisions of the next BDP national congress, Mogalakwe says the BDP would be out of business if it was not for the fragmentation of the opposition vote. He said for the first time since independence, and under President Khama, the BDP is a minority government.
“If only the UDC and BCP can get their act together, the BDP would be out of business come 2019. One thing that can prevent the political demise of the BDP is the proportional representation electoral system, which they have dismissed with contempt in the past. Introducing a direct election of the President and trying to smuggle Khama back after two disastrous performances will not assist them much. The BDP should just forget about building the Khama Dynasty. It is now a discredited and failed project. Our Republic should be led by republicans, even if they are BDP,” he said.
UDC AND BCP DECISION ON UNITY
Mogalakwe said there is a need for both UDC and BCP to crack out of this mutually assured destructive mind-set where they view one another as the immediate target to be destroyed, as a tactical manoeuvre towards a long term strategic objective of defeating the BDP. He said this did not work in 2004, where the opposition lost 12 seats due to split vote, it did not work in 2009, where the opposition lost nine seats due to split vote, it did not work in 2014 where the opposition lost a staggering 15 seats due to spilt vote. It will not work in 2019.
“In business language, the UDC and the BCP are selling the same product, but are splitting up their market share, much to the amusement of the BDP. If you came from Mars you would not tell who UDC was and who BCP was when you listen to them carefully. The unity between the BCP and UDC cannot be brought about in a mechanical way, but will be a process involving political and spiritual rebirth, and as in every birth, there will be a lot of pain,” he 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.