BDP to block July parley live broadcast
Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) strategists are said to have hatched a grand-plan to frustrate any efforts to have the upcoming meeting of the 12th parliament live on Botswana Television and Radio Botswana, this publication has established.
The past two emergency meetings of parliament held at Ditshupo hall were beamed live by the public broadcaster (BTV and RB). The expectation is, the impending meeting billed for the 27th of July will also be broadcast for Batswana given the fact that the country is still in the State of Public Emergency.
BDP is said to be feeling the pressure and believes opposition members are exposing the ruling party legislators and wants this coming assembly away from the broadcasters. So the agreement has been made that lack of finances will be used as an excuse not to stream parliament live. Chances are very high Batswana will not watch or listen the proceedings live, an impeccable source told WeekendPost.
The party schemers according to this publications informants believe their members fared badly on those debates and the party should redeem and rebuild the image without cameras and microphones. Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) last week, the Clerk of the National Assembly, Barbara Dithapo said parliament was previously allocated P3.7 million for scoping and piloting of the project, over P24 million short of the required amount.
President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi is also said to have come out of an emergency Parliamentary sessions a disappointed man after a poor display by some of his cabinet ministers who suffered humiliation at the hands of Members of Parliament.
After the debates a wide public criticism erupted with political pundits casting aspersions on some of ministers ability including Vice President Slumber Tsogwane. As the Leader of the House, Tsogwane was at the fore-front in rejecting motions and suggestions by members of opposition.
Live broadcast of Botswana Parliament is a very old issue. Former Member of Parliament for Selebi Phikwe West, Gilson Saleshando tabled a motion in parliament requesting government to do so in the 10th Parliament. A source from the National Assembly has told this publication on Thursday that they are not sure whether the meeting will be live on state broadcasters.
BDP Secretary General Mpho Balopi has denied reports that they could be trying to block the live streaming of proceedings. We are the ones who were leading the advocacy for the live broadcast in the past two meetings, so there is no how we can block that development. We would like Batswana to see and hear their representatives at the August house.
Efforts to contact both Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration Kabo Morwaeng and his assistant Dumezweni Mthimkhulu who are responsible for the live broadcast were futile.
Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) Vice President, Dumelang Saleshando recently told this publication that by the time he vacates the office of Leader of Opposition (LOO) he would have rumbled many times with the Speaker, Phandu Skelemani, over parliamentary reforms.
My big assignment is parliamentary live broadcast. We will put pressure to the Speaker that parliamentary proceedings be seen by the public and if he refuses we will ask for an arrangement to have a private live broadcast be it Facebook or anything.
All the reasons that parliament cannot be broadcast live are false as proven by the latest development where it was beamed live on BTV, says Saleshando. In the past we were told that there should be an arrangement on how broadcasting personnel should behave inside the house which is not true, there is nothing like that.
At one point it was an issue of budget, and it shows that they are reluctant to do so. This is a parliamentary reform not the Speaker conducting Kgotla meetings, and I will ensure that it happens. Another UDC MP, Dithapelo Keorapetse has opined as thus; If its indeed true that it is expensive to broadcast parliament live, what are the other cheaper available options and why are they not utilized.
This is the 21st century, the era of 4th Industrial Revolution; the epoch of social media, internet applications and online private radio station among others. Most media houses have Facebook pages and or online platforms through which Parliament can be covered live. In fact, some media houses have threatened court actions to force live broadcast of Parliament.
According to the Selibe Phikwe West MP, the reasoning for the delay, besides that BTV is unable to do so or that the idea has far reaching cost implications, has been that Parliament hasnt provided the guidelines or rules of coverage for its intended live broadcast.
Whilst the guidelines or rules of coverage are important, they cant be used as a valid excuse because they are simple to draft and can be expeditiously adopted and if need evolve or change over time. This is what happened in both developing and developed democracies. In the meantime, online publications and Private radios and TV can be allowed to cover Parliament. The guideline must be expedited to realize this, he added.
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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.