Brigadier Macheng was almost made DIS Chief
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As the fallout between President Mokgweetsi Masisi and Director General of the intelligence unit Brigadier Peter Magosi becomes more evident, former Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) Chief of Staff, Brigadier Terry Macheng appears to be the next in lined to take over as new intelligence boss.
However the move was put on hold, after President Masisi was allegedly forced to withdraw Magosi’s suspension letter following a heated exchange with the spy chief. Impeccable sources within the country’s intelligence unit have revealed that the DIS Chief has fallen out of favour with President Masisi because of the glaring errors that borders on ‘recklessness’, sources say. It is alleged that Masisi had initially suspended Magosi from duty sometime last year [2019] but the suspension was lifted after Magosi counterattacked using inside information.
Sources close to the developments told this publication that Magosi was not happy with attempts to eject him. Should Magosi be shown the door, Masisi’s choice for the Director General post is Brigadier Sentsekae Terry Macheng who is currently stationed at Ministry of Transport and Communications, on an F2 salary scale. Macheng was one of former President Lt General Ian Khama’s loyalists. The former President had in 2017 moved him from the position of National Anti-Poaching Coordinator, Botswana Defence Force (BDF) to the Office of the President, as Chief of Staff, DIS.
When three DIS officers were caught up in an elephant poaching scandal in Makalamabedi, Boteti Sub District in 2017, Macheng was at the time heading the Anti- Poaching Unit though he did not take action against the men. This publication can confirm that Magosi was leading the team that nabbed the three men during their operations.
WeekendPost was reliably informed that former President Khama’s plan at the time was to have Macheng replace Kgosi in future as he wanted Kgosi to be sent outside the country, but along the way, there was change of plans as Khama extended Kgosi’s contract with five years. Allegations suggest that Khama had hoped for continuity even after handing the baton to Masisi. Brigadier Macheng is currently employed in the Ministry of Transport and Communication as Project Manager in the Anti- Corruption Unit.
“No one has ever consulted me regarding what you are asking. To be honest, if there is anything like that, it would require a lot of consultation but at the moment nothing has been done or suggested to me,” said Macheng when contacted by WeekendPost this week on the ongoing developments. Macheng also told WeekendPost that from his own view the move is highly unlikely because of the events that happened in the past. The former DIS Chief of Staff said a lot has been written about him in the private media and thus prompted some ‘people’ to make unwarranted decisions that otherwise could have not happened.
Macheng said at the moment there is minimal friction and discord between him and the people who make decisions. “What I can confirm to you is that, I am working right now at the Ministry of Transport and Communications”. In 2019, local newspapers reported that Masisi had suspended DIS Director General Peter Magosi with immediate effect, something that was not denied nor confirmed.
The bone of contention which adds to the already ailing relationship between the President and spy Chief, is the controversial and high profile P100 billion case involving one Welheminah Maswabi code named ‘Butterfly’, a DIS agent accused of money laundering and financing terrorism. The loopholes in the charge sheet and affidavits were disposed by Directorate of Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) Jako Hubona at court. It is alleged that the loopholes in the charges have angered some senior bosses in the Directorate who felt that it has exposed their fault lines. The escapes have also exposed part power struggling within the spy unit, a confirmation that Magosi failed to unite the old and new guards.
It is also reported that President Masisi was angered by a P60 million lawsuit from China Jiangsu after a swift move by the DCEC in conjunction with the DIS for alleged corruption dealings. Magosi was at the forefront of this purported China Jiangsu, saying they are involved in massive corruption and are a threat to national security. The company lost multi-billion tenders due to the letter by DIS including the P1. 5 billion Maun Water Supply and Sanitation Project and the P419 million Moshupa Hospital project.
It is reported that this move did not sit well with some within the DIS as they felt that they were now stepping on the mandate of Directorate of Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC). Unlike his predecessor who was employed on contractual basis, Peter Magosi is said to have been employed on a permanent and pensionable basis, a move which makes it difficult for Masisi to ‘fire’ him immediately. It is alleged that after a very intimate meeting, the two men agreed on common grounds of working together, however Masisi is still hatching a new plan to get rid of the spy Chief.
Contacted for comment Magosi did not respond even when WeekendPost repeatedly called. In November 2019, in an interview with this publication Magosi said of the matter: “It is all nonsense. My relationship with Masisi is intact. The rumours relating to my suspension have been doing rounds even before elections. The rumours are even continuing after elections. People who peddle those rumours are the ones who wish for tension between me and H.E.” Brigadier Magosi assumed the reins in May 2018, following the unceremonious departure of founding chief spy, Colonel Kgosi.
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BTC launches the 3rd Francistown Marathon 2024 and handover proceeds to the 2nd Francistown Marathon beneficiaries
Botswana Telecommunications Corporation Limited (BTC) has announced that its 3rd Francistown Marathon will be held on Saturday 20th April 2024 at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown. The BTC Francistown Marathon is officially recognised by World Athletics and a Comrades Marathon Qualifier will offer race categories ranging from 42.2km, 21.1 km, 10km, 5km fun run, 5km peace run for children and has introduced a 5km and 10km categories for wheelchairs athletics.
BTC also used this opportunity to announce beneficiaries who received donations from proceeds made from the 2nd BTC Francistown Marathon that was held on April 23rd 203. BTC donated a play area, plastic chairs and wooden tables for pupils worth a total of thirty eight thousand, one hundred and three pula, fifty thebe each (P38, 103.50) to Monarch Primary School, Tatitown Primary School, Mahube Primary School and Gulubane Primary School. Ditladi and Boikhutso clinics each received a donation of benches, television sets and 10, 000 litre water tanks worth thirty seven thousan, eight hundred and ninety eight pula (P 37, 898.00). Additionally, BTC also donated seventy thousand pula (P70,000.00) to their marathon technical partner, Francistown Athletics Club (FAC) which will be used for daily operations as well as to purchase equipment for the club.
The BTC Francistown Marathon aligns seamlessly with BTC’s corporate social investment programme, administered through the BTC Foundation. This programme is a testament to BTC’s dedication to community development, focusing on key areas such as health promotion. The marathon, now in its third year, not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also channels all proceeds to carefully chosen charities as part of BTC’s commitment to impactful and sustainable projects.
Speaking at the launch, the BTC Managing Director Mr Anthony Masunga stated that the marathon underscores BTC’s commitment to community upliftment and corporate social investment. He stated that “the annual event which has been in existence since 2016, having taken a break due to the covid and other logistical issues, is instrumental to the economic upliftment of the city of Francistown”. He congratulated all the beneficiaries for having been nominated to receive the donations, adding that “the donation of proceeds from the 2023 marathon aims to highlight BTC’s commitment and heart for Batswana and our continued impact in the different industries”.
He further stated that through this marathon, “we demonstrate our steadfast commitment to having a good influence on our communities, this event is a manifestation of our dedication to promoting education and a healthier, more active society”. He concluded by stating that “BTC looks forward to another successful marathon that will leave a lasting positive influence on the greater Francistown community and the country at large” he said.
Giving welcome remarks, the Councillor for Donga, Honourable Morulaganyi Mothowabarwa stated that “he is ecstatic that BTC is collaborating with the City of Francistown on yet another installment of the Marathon”. He continued to offer his support to BTC to enable this marathon to continue over the coming years, stating that the “CSI element is a welcome development that helps empower our communities”, he said.
The 3rd BTC Francistown Marathon is officially open for registrations and athletes may use the following platforms to register and pay; through Smega by dialling *173# and choosing opton 5, then choose Option 3 for the Francistown marathon, at any BTC store or by visiting the BTC website and clicking on the BTC Francistown Marathon and choosing the relevant options.
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Letsholo lauds President Masisi’s digitization in fight against corruption
Thapelo Letsholo, Member of Parliament for Kanye North, delivered a moving speech at the United Nations International Anti-Corruption Day commemoration, praising President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption. Letsholo highlighted the importance of embracing digitalization in governance as a crucial step in curbing corrupt practices.
According to Letsholo, the implementation of digital systems in government services can significantly reduce direct interactions between citizens and officials, which often serve as fertile grounds for corruption. By minimizing these opportunities for illicit activities, the efficiency and transparency of public services can be enhanced. Letsholo pointed to Estonia’s success in digital governance as an example, where public services have become more transparent, accessible, and efficient.
The MP commended President Masisi’s commitment to digitalization and E-Governance, emphasizing that it aligns with global anti-corruption standards. He called for full support and active participation from all sectors to ensure the success of this initiative.
Letsholo also stressed the importance of improving detection methods and refining whistleblower laws to effectively combat corruption. He highlighted the unseen and unspoken facets of corruption as its lifelines, emphasizing the need for robust detection mechanisms and a system that encourages and protects whistleblowers.
Addressing the societal role in fighting corruption, Letsholo focused on the crucial role of everyday citizens and civil servants who often witness corrupt practices firsthand. He acknowledged the existing reluctance to report corruption due to the perceived risks of repercussions. To change this narrative, Letsholo advocated for creating an environment where staying silent is deemed more detrimental than speaking out. He called for a cultural shift where the potential benefits of exposing corruption outweigh the risks, ensuring that whistleblowers are protected and feel secure in coming forward.
Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a system that not only detects and reports corruption but also supports those who stand against it. He expressed hope that under President Masisi’s digitalization initiatives, the future of governance in Botswana will be characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability. Letsholo’s speech resonated with the sentiments of hope and determination that permeated the commemoration, emphasizing the need for unity in the fight against corruption.
In summary, Letsholo lauded President Masisi’s digitalization initiative in the fight against corruption, highlighting its potential to curb corrupt practices, enhance efficiency and transparency in public services, and align with global anti-corruption standards. He emphasized the importance of improving detection methods, refining whistleblower laws, and creating an environment where speaking out against corruption is encouraged and protected. Letsholo called for collective responsibility and action in creating a future characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance.
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FaR property assets value clock P1.47 billion
FaR Property Company (FPC) Limited, a property investment company listed on the Botswana Stock Exchange, has recently announced its exceptional financial results for the year 2023. The company’s property asset value has risen to P1.47 billion, up from P1.42 billion in the previous year.
FPC has a diverse portfolio of properties, including retail, commercial, industrial, and residential properties in Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. The company owns a total of 186 properties, generating rental revenues from various sectors. In 2023, the company recorded rental revenues of P11 million from residential properties, P62 million from industrial properties, and P89 million from commercial properties. Overall, the company’s total revenues increased by 9% to P153 million, while profit before tax increased by 22% to P136 million, and operating profit increased by 11% to P139 million.
One notable achievement for FPC is the low vacancy rate across its properties, which stands at only 6%. This is particularly impressive considering the challenging trading environment. The company attributes this success to effective lease management and the leasing of previously vacant properties in South Africa. FPC’s management expressed satisfaction with the results, highlighting the resilience of the company in the face of ongoing macroeconomic challenges.
The increase in profit before tax can be attributed to both an increase in income and effective control of operating expenses. FPC managed to achieve these results with fewer employees, demonstrating the company’s efficiency. The headline earnings per linked unit also saw an improvement, reaching 26.92 thebe, higher than the previous year.
Looking ahead, FPC remains confident in its competitiveness and growth prospects. The company possesses a substantial land bank, which it plans to develop strategically as opportunities arise. FPC aims for managed growth, focusing on consumer-driven developments and ensuring the presence of supportive tenants. By maintaining this approach, the company believes it can sustainably grow its property portfolio and remain competitive in the market.
In terms of the macroeconomic environment, FPC noted that inflation rates are decreasing towards the 3% to 6% range approved by the Bank of Botswana. This is positive news for the company, as it hopes for further decreases in interest rates. However, the fluctuating fuel prices, influenced by global events such as the war in Ukraine and oil output reductions by Russia and other Middle Eastern countries, continue to impact businesses, including some of FPC’s tenants.
FPC’s property portfolio includes notable assets such as a shopping mall in Francistown with Choppies Hyper as the anchor tenant, Borogo Mall located on the A33 main road near the Kazungula ferry crossing, and various industrial and commercial properties in Gaborone leased to Choppies, Senn Foods, and Clover Botswana. The company also owns a shopping mall in Mafikeng and Rustenburg in South Africa.
The majority of FPC’s properties, 85%, are located in Botswana, followed by 12% in South Africa and 3% in Zambia. With its strong financial performance, competitive position, and strategic land bank, FPC is well-positioned for continued growth and success in the property market.