29 Jun 2017

Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) director general, Ms Rose Seretse has said the tip off anonymous platform will go a long way in promoting good corporate governance and ethical business conduct in the PPADB system.

Speaking at the PPADB tip off anonymous launch at Cresta Lodge on June 27, Ms Seretse said the tip off platform will promote transparency and enhance accountability in procurement.

She also said research has shown that 40 per cent fraud and corruption is detected through anonymous tip offs.

“According to DCEC records, 45 per cent of information comes from anonymous sources, this therefore demonstrates the relevance of the initiative we are launching today,” she said.

She said fighting corruption is a collective responsibility and cannot be done single handedly by any anti-corruption agency.

“It requires political will for all government institutions and the private sector to work towards a common goal of a corrupt free Botswana society,” she said.

Seretse said public procumbent is key to driving the growth of the economy as it is the vehicle through which a large part of Botswana’s development budget is spent.

For her part, PPADB executive chairperson, Ms Bridget John said the anonymous tip off platform is being introduced in support of safeguarding public interest and achievement of the developmental goals of the nation.

In order to ascertain the level of public confidence in the procurement and asset disposal process the board conducted a study which revealed that there were perceptions of corruption in procurement.

“After the survey the board saw it prudent to develop a whistle blowing policy whose aim is to provide a safe and secure avenue for employees of PPADB, members of the public, contractors and other stakeholders, “she said.

She further said the policy also looks at disclosing information which the whistleblower believes may show malpractice or impropriety, and to cause to be known to the PPADB any unethical conduct, or misbehavior corruption that is likely to harm or injure its reputation or that of key stakeholders involved in procurement.

She said the policy seeks to enhance the integrity of the procurement and asset disposal system.

“The disclosures will therefore be handled in a secure environment by trained and mature independent professionals and tip off service provider Deloitte, who will manage the facility, analyses, filter and validate any reports received,” she said. ENDS