13 Aug 2026

Legislators have a duty to ensure that the integrity of the country is upheld, Assistant Minister of Justice and Correctional Service, Mr Augustine Nyatanga has said.

Responding to MPs contributions following presentation of the Trust Property Control (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in Parliament on Wednesday, Mr Nyatanga appreciated MPs support.

He acknowledged their counsel, saying it was important for Botswana to comply with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Standards. The Trust Property Control (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to address deficiencies identified through the National Risk Assessment, Mock Mutual Evaluation Exercise and the revised FATF Standards.

In particular, the Bill gives effect to FATF recommendation, which requires competent authorities to effectively cooperate, coordinate and exchange information, both domestically and internationally, in relation to non-profit organisations suspected of terrorist financing or other forms of terrorist support, and to respond promptly to information requests from foreign counterparts while safeguarding confidentiality.

Supporting the Bill, MP for Mmadinare and also Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, Mr Ketlhalefile Motshegwa said not complying could have dire consequences for the reputation of this country.

Sharing the same sentiments was MP for Gabane/Mmankgodi, Mr Kagiso Mmusi, who emphasised that government, should ensure that the amendments complied with FATF and were implemented.

He also cautioned government that FATF does not only audit but also observed irregularities within the country, which could be detrimental to compliance. Selebi Phikwe West MP, Mr Reuben Kaizer said while Botswana cooperated and shared information with foreign counterparts, government should ensure that the Data Protection Act and the Bill, worked harmoniously to protect Batswana.

Okavango West MP, Mr Kenny Kapinga called for reinforcement of structures to share information. ENDS