End monopolies and declare political donations
(PART OF MP THAPELO LETSHOLO’S DELIBERATIONS IN PARLIAMENT THIS WEEK)
We have to create an opportunity for new entrants into sectors and types of businesses. It is no longer viable for one person to be the sole supplier of Mercedes or BMW in the whole country forever nor is it viable for one person to own all the Nandos’ franchises in Botswana forever. It may have worked in previous years, but the same approach is not valid anymore.
Regulatory intervention is urgently required to rationalize the situation. We have to amend our competition laws to facilitate for current and future generations to have the opportunity by prohibiting monopolies. Dominance kills entrepreneurs who are trying to play catch up. We need to force people to align with the right values if they cannot do this voluntarily.It is reported that the chicken business and chicken feed businesses are dominated by two people who have licenses for the whole country from South Africa. They’re already well established, and will either flood the market or hold back stock in order to control the market. There is no place in modern Botswana for these unfair business practices.The late Vice President and former BDP Chairman Lt. Gen. Mompati Merafhe used to say that in politics, public persecutions matter more than facts. Now there exists a perception Honourable Members that members of Parliament, including Cabinet Members, abuse their political positions for favours and inappropriate financial and wealth gain. Whether this perception may be true or not for some members of the community, perception is reality. It is incumbent upon us to change this toxic perception. Politics shouldn’t be seen as a route for personal financial security, but to bring fresh ideas and drive the economy for the betterment of our people. The national agenda should be the core focus for all members of parliament.
As part of the solution to win our voters’ confidence and trust, I implore all Members of
Parliament to subject themselves to an annual lifestyle and asset audit upon being elected and throughout their tenure.
This audit, Mr Speaker, should include the heads of civil service, and Director Generals of DCEC, DIS, BURS, FIA and others. I shall be discussing these with my colleagues and the party leadership with a view to bring this up as a motion. The adoption of the motion will further complement the objectives of the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Bill as laid out by His Excellency the President in uprooting corruption. I (also) suggest that donations to politicians and political parties be made public to eliminate the perception of possible potential capture by business people and individuals. [Thapelo Letsholo]