28 Oct 2014

Former Minister of Defence, Justice and Security, Mr Dikgakgamatso Seretse says the dialogue and discussions he had with the staff of his ministry has built him as a person.

Speaking at his farewell party at the ministry headquarters recently, Mr Seretse said unlike at the army where he used to give instructions, the staff at the ministry preferred discussions to meet a common goal. 

He noted that such form of dialogue and discussions enriched his decision making capacity that led to smooth working relations and productivity.  Mr Seretse told the staff that the time and experience that he had with them had culminated and resulted in love and respect.

He said bidding farewell to him while he was still alive was memorable as they were still going to meet within the borders of Botswana and share ideas, jokes and advices whenever need arise adding that his intentions were to become a fulltime farmer.

For her part, permanent secretary Ms Segakweng Tsiane said  Mr Seretse came at a time when the ministry was doing poorly on performance and productivity, but he left it being rated as one of the top five performing and productive ministries.

She said Mr Seretse had good working ethics and was an effective time keeper who was a good team builder. Ms Tsiane said one of the passions and legacies that Mr Seretse leaves behind is seeing the National Security Review Strategy coming to pass adding that the strategy has been completed and will be handed to Parliament for approval.

Representing MDJS staff and welcoming the gathering, Mr James Kgosintwa said most of the staff has worked with the minister for the past six years and during that time, they had seen him as a leader and parent who treated them equally. 

He said parting with Mr Seretse while he is still alive is a positive venture as they will always call on him should they encounter any problem that needs his guidance as a parent. ENDS