I'm ready to declare assets – President Masisi
Chakalisa Dube | Tuesday August 1, 2023 06:00
The narrative on Masisi’s wealth has been spreading at an alarming rate since he assumed the presidency in April 2018. Some accuse the President of enriching himself, members of his family, and members of his inner cycle at the expense of Batswana, state funds, and national resources.
However, on Saturday when addressing a political rally in Tonota, Masisi strongly refuted claims that he is corrupt and that he has embezzled public funds. The weekend rally was meant to officially welcome Tonota legislator, Pono Moatlhodi into the ruling party. Moatlhodi returned to the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) more than two years ago after leaving the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). Masisi declared that his wealth is not ill-gotten and is ready to be audited.
He maintained that the source of his income before and after becoming President is easy to trace. “I honestly don’t sincerely mind revealing and declaring my assets. If there is where I have errored or disregarded the law for my benefit, take me to court. If charged I will honour all court proceedings. I will not be a fugitive. “I will also not even create insinuations that the charges against me are politically motivated. I will respect the decisions of the court. I will go to jail if need be. Jail is for everyone.
It is not only meant for certain characters,” he said. Masisi’s remarks appeared to be a veiled attack on his predecessor, Ian Khama. Former president Khama is facing several criminal charges. He fled to South Africa in 2021 saying that he fears for his life and does not trust that he will have a fair trial under Masisi’s government. Khama and Masisi have been feuding since late 2018 although the cause of their conflict remains unknown to this day. Masisi added in his lengthy address, “Nna ke eme sentle (ready to declare assets).
I have no problem, but I know that others have a problem. I am a very confident President. I am oozing, am overflowing with confidence. I know that next year the BDP will win the elections.” Masisi reiterated that he was not unduly allocated Banyana Farms. In 2020, government confirmed that Masisi won a tender to lease the farm ahead of the other two competing bidders. There were allegations that the President’s bid was not competent as compared to the other two. Masisi was widely condemned by opposition parties and the media after reports emerged that he won the tender ‘appropriately'. However, Masisi maintains a contrary position.
“They should state how many people applied and how competent their proposals were. There is no other way I have attained my wealth besides following the procedure followed by any other Motswana,” he said. It was announced last year that the ownership of Banyana Farms will be transferred from Masisi’s name to that of the government.