27 May 2018

Ntlo ya Dikgosi has been informed that government is not in a position to state how much money has been siphoned by corruption.

Assistant Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration, Mr Machana Shamukuni said this when responding to a question asked by specially elected Kgosi Maruje III.

Mr Shamukuni said Botswana had consented to the United Nations convention against corruption, which was regarded as a legal framework for anti-corruption agencies and governments in the fight against corruption.

Mr Shamukuni said Botswana’s accession to the convention had paved the way for the enactment of legislation on declaration of assets and liabilities, following cabinet’s approval on the drafting of the Bill in 2013, which he said awaited consideration by cabinet.

The minister further stated that following the publication of the bill, it would be tabled in Parliament to allow debate by MPs as representatives of various constituencies.  

He added that the debates would influence the shape of the Declaration of Assets law.

Mr Shamukuni further stated that government was committed to upholding the public service values espoused in the Public Service Charter which would enhance professionalism and integrity in government.

The assistant minister was responding to a question by Kgosi Maruje III who had asked how much of government spending, budget and projects had been siphoned by corruption.

Kgosi Maruje III also wanted the minister to explain why government had taken long to consider the Declaration of Assets Bill in the wake of the rising corruption issues across the economy.

In addition, he asked the minister to shed light as to whether the nation would be taken on board about the shape of the legislation as well as the position of government on leadership integrity and unethical conduct and its implications on future relations and governance. ENDS