UDC condemns Dr Matsheka’s removal from Finance Ministry
The Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has condemned the transfer of Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr Thapelo Matsheka from the treasury.
President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi moved Dr Matsheka to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing Development when he reshuffled cabinet last week Friday.
UDC Head of Communications Moeti Mohwasa said they are deeply concerned by what he termed uncertainty and disarray that characterises the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) government.
“In terms of our constitution, by dint of his position as President, Masisi has powers to reshuffle cabinet anytime he feels like. This power is expected to be exercised in a judicious manner, bringing the national interest first.
“The recent reshuffle and senior government officials’ movements paint a picture of a crisis in leadership, indicating that all is not well.
“There is no doubt that most of these movements are not done in good faith. They should not be done in such a way that compromises certainty, good governance and service delivery, particularly in a time of crisis like the one we are in now,” Mohwasa said this week.
He explained that Ministers and senior government officials are responsible for the planning, development and implementation of government policies.
They are therefore critical and central to the governance of a country, adding that consistent movements from one ministry to another are bound to affect their focus and ability to deliver.
According to the UDC spokesperson, the movement that has solicited more questions than answers is that of Finance minister.
“After the President, the Minister of Finance is important because of the responsibilities that go with his office. His/her responsibilities include, among others, overseeing fiscal/monetary policy and budget.”
Mohwasa said that if the reshuffle was done in good faith more ministers would have been affected.
He said that given its centrality to the economy, the Ministry of Finance needs someone with the “right credentials to provide leadership for prosperity of the country, particularly at a time of economic downturn due to Covid-19 and depleted foreign reserves,” explained Mohwasa.