UDC MPs accused of bullying Councils for tenders

The growing influence of some Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) Members of Parliament in local authorities has raised concerns over governance and financial oversight, Botswana Guardian has learned.Information gathered suggests that since assuming power, certain MPs—including cabinet members—have pressured Town Clerks, Council Secretaries, and Senior Assistant Council Secretaries to prioritise services for themselves or close associates ahead of ordinary citizens.Sources say procurement offices are the main target, with MPs allegedly pushing for allies to secure tenders, prime business land, and other lucrative opportunities under the guise of employment creation.Councillors are reportedly used to advance these interests, while threats of transfers loom over officials who resist.“They have taken advantage of the President’s call for efficient service delivery and job creation. An MP will walk into an office with a proposal and expect immediate action,” a Senior Assistant Council Secretary who has served across several local authorities, said.One case has already been reported to the Permanent Secretary to the President (PSP), with the affected official seeking protection against harassment for refusing to act on demands that breach governance processes.Local authority officials told this publication they are uneasy with MPs’ attempts to dictate council business.“This is not good governance. Processes must be followed to the letter, regardless of how convincing a proposal may be or who is connected to the President,” another official said.Observers argue that elected leaders such as MPs and mayors should focus on policy and representation, while career civil servants manage daily operations, budgets, and staff.Insiders allege that many of the businesses pushed through informal channels are either financiers of the 2024 elections or potential funders for 2029 campaigns.The MPs are also said to be exploiting a recent statement by Minister of Local Government and Traditional Affairs Ketlhalefile Motshegwa, who urged President Duma Boko to allow the dismissal of non performing officials.Speaking at a Council Mayors and Chairpersons Forum in Selibe Phikwe, Motshegwa stressed the need for effective service delivery and swift action against underperformers—including ministers.Motshegwa declined to comment further, directing inquiries to the councils. Efforts to reach PSP Matshidiso Bokole were unsuccessful at press time.

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UDC MPs accused of bullying Councils for tenders