01 Aug 2019

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi says the proposed Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Bill associates with ideals of good governance which Botswana is known for.

Contributing to the debate of the bill in Parliament on July 30, President Masisi said the bill also linked with what was envisioned in the country’s Vision 2036 particularly Pillar four; Governance, Peace and Security, which states that ‘crime and corruption in our country will be reduced to minimal levels, with civil society organisations and community being active participants in the national development process.’ Therefore, President Masisi said that the bill supported ideals in Pillar four of Vision 2036.

Furthermore, the president explained that legislation promulgation was a process, therefore steps needed to be taken and implored MP’s to pass the bill.

Acknowledgding that the bill was overdue, Dr Masisi, applauded previous efforts initiated by former MP Ms Joy Phumaphi in presenting the bill to Parliament.

Dr Masisi further noted that they were motivated to present the bill by the imminent, apparent and noticeable threats that Botswana was exposed to when gray listed.

He said passing the bill among other pieces of legislations that were passed, would mitigate the effects of such gray listing, adding that it was a positive step to respond appropriately to a particular circumstance.

He said the bill was a positive progressive step and drew a baseline towards the fight against corruption.

The MP for Shashe West Mr Fidelis Molao who also backed the bill said it would restore confidence of Batswana as well as safeguard their interests especially against unscrupulous leaders in the political space and in the public service.

Specially Elected MP, Dr Unity Dow also applauded the Bill, saying it would scrutinise each one of them as leaders and allow them to account for their assets. Dr Dow further said the Bill would promote accountability, good governance as well as  promote trust and leadership. ENDS