At the end of July, Botswana’s Parliament was presented with a controversial bill amending the Presidents (Pensions and Retirement Benefits) Act.
The bill, which extends lavish benefits to the families of former presidents, is a disheartening display of self-serving governance at a time when the nation is grappling with severe economic and social challenges.
The implications of this bill are far-reaching, and it is crucial for the citizens of Botswana to understand what it entails and why it must be critically examined.
Details of the bill
The proposed bill, set to be presented by Kabo Morwaeng, Minister for State President, seeks to amend several key sections of the existing Act.
It aims to redefine “dependent child” to include financially dependent children under 18 years of age, including those born out of wedlock but adopted according to the Adoption of Children Act.
It ensures that these children, along with the spouse of a former president, receive substantial untaxed monthly pensions.
Additionally, the bill proposes that if a former president is sentenced to death or imprisonment, their pension and benefits would cease unless the sentence is wholly suspended.
This clause has been perceived by many as an attack on former president Ian Khama, who is currently in self-imposed exile and entangled in legal battles.
Under the proposed amendments, a former president is entitled to a tax-free monthly pension equivalent to their salary when they leave office or 80% of the incumbent president’s salary, whichever is greater.
This provision extends to their spouse and dependent children, guaranteeing them lifelong financial support even beyond the president’s death.
Moreover, the bill allows for multiple vehicles for the former president, their spouse, and their office, as well as security officers, medical insurance, and evacuation services.
Implications for Taxpayers
This bill places a significant financial burden on the taxpayers of Botswana.
At a time when the economy is under severe strain, directing public funds to sustain the luxurious lifestyles of former presidents’ families is indefensible.
The resources allocated for these benefits could be better spent on critical public services that are currently in a deplorable state.
The financial implications are enormous.
Providing untaxed monthly allowances of 50 000 BWP per child, along with other extensive benefits, represents a substantial drain on the national treasury.
This money comes from the pockets of hardworking citizens, who are already struggling to cope with the rising cost of living and high unemployment rates.
The State of the Nation
Botswana is facing a myriad of challenges that require immediate and sustained attention.
The education system is in disarray, with many schools lacking basic furniture and resources.
Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed and underfunded, leading to shortages of essential medicines and medical staff.
These are not minor issues; they are fundamental to the well-being and future prosperity of the nation.
The government’s failure to address these core obligations is evident in initiatives like “Adopt a Police Station,” where maintenance of police infrastructure has been outsourced to corporate organisations, businessmen, and well-wishers.
This initiative highlights the extent to which the government has neglected its responsibilities, relying on external donations to keep essential services running.
Economically, Botswana is on the brink of insolvency.
Inflation is soaring, squeezing the living standards of ordinary citizens.
Unemployment is rampant, and the tax rate is stealthily oppressive.
Corruption and nepotism are rife, creating an environment where only those with connections to the ruling party benefit.
The government takes years to pay its creditors and suppliers, hiding behind a dysfunctional GABS IT system, while the truth remains that there is no money.
Trade and business laws are heavily skewed in favour of foreign nationals, particularly from China and other countries, who dominate key sectors of the economy.
Native Batswana have become spectators in their own country’s economy, as doing business with the government is reserved for BDP members and their close associates.
This creates an unequal playing field where ordinary citizens are sidelined, unable to participate meaningfully in the economic life of their own country.
A Call for Accountability
The passage of this bill is a stark reminder of the disconnect between the government’s priorities and the needs of its people.
President Masisi’s administration has shown a consistent pattern of prioritising personal and political gain over national welfare.
This bill is a clear example of how the regime is overshadowing pressing issues and turning a blind eye to the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
In stark contrast, Kenya offers a valuable lesson in citizen activism and fiscal responsibility.
Recently, the Kenyan government proposed a bill that would have extended similar extravagant benefits to its leaders.
However, the Kenyan public responded with vehement opposition, mobilising protests and vocal campaigns that ultimately led to the bill being scrapped.
The Kenyan example demonstrates the power of civic engagement and the importance of holding leaders accountable.
A Need for Citizen Action
The citizens of Botswana must take a page from Kenya’s playbook and raise their voices against this unjust bill.
Public outcry and civic engagement are essential to ensuring that government policies reflect the will and welfare of the people.
Botswana’s leaders must be reminded that their primary duty is to serve the nation, not enrich themselves and their families.
This bill is a step in the wrong direction for Botswana.
It perpetuates a culture of entitlement and greed among the political elite, diverting much-needed resources away from critical public services.
The government must be held accountable for its actions, and citizens must demand that their leaders prioritise the needs of the many over the privileges of the few.
Botswana stands at a crossroads.
The decisions made today will shape the future of the nation.
It is imperative that citizens take an active role in the democratic process, advocating for policies that promote equity, justice, and sustainable development.
By rejecting this bill and demanding accountability, Batswana can steer their country towards a more equitable and prosperous future.
In conclusion, the proposed pension bill for former presidents is a self-serving proposal that ignores the pressing needs of the nation.
It is a blatant display of greed and a misuse of public funds.
The citizens of Botswana must rise to the occasion, drawing inspiration from Kenya’s example, and demand that their leaders focus on improving the quality of education, healthcare, and other essential services.
Only through collective action and unwavering demand for accountability can Botswana hope to reclaim its path towards progress and prosperity.
*The writer of this article is Kevin Mofokeng, a developmental writer and digital PR strategist based in Gaborone, Botswana. The views expressed by Kevin Mofokeng are not necessarily those of The Bulrushes
