MPs struggle to find jobs after Parley
Spira Tlhankane | Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:21
Speaking during the first-ever occasion of the official opening of the third meeting of the second session of the 13th Parliament, Keorapetse said special rights and privileges protect MPs from undue external pressure, but challenges remain.
“Beyond their tenure, many politicians struggle with employability, and their retirement benefits often fall short of ensuring dignified lives. It is in this regard that we have initiated a process to register a National Assembly Credit and Cooperative Society, commonly known as SACCOS, with the assistance of the SACCOS umbrella body in Botswana, the Botswana Savings and Credit Cooperative Association (BOSCCA),” Keorapetse said as he indicated Parliament’s plans to rescue the cash-strapped ex-MPs.
He also announced that membership of the society will be open to serving MPs, former MPs, current and former staff, and their families. The Speaker added that this is intended to encourage a culture of saving amongst MPs and improve their financial literacy, as well as to give them access to credit, based on affordable terms.
“Given that MPs are not easily employable upon leaving political office due to the misunderstood nature of their roles and limited opportunities in the job market, this initiative aims to provide them with financial stability and support during their transition period after public service,” he highlighted.
The Speaker also said that they have initiated discussions with other partners in finance, asset management, and insurance to train MPs in financial literacy and to explore the possibility of curating tailor-made fiduciary and long-term investment solutions for MPs. “We thank, amongst others, Masheleng, Minet, Mmila Fund Administrators, and SACCOS Botswana,” he acknowledged.
Besides financial challenges, Keorapetse said Parliament is increasingly concerned about the health and well-being of legislators, noting that the pressures and demands of political office often come at the expense of their personal welfare. He said experts who addressed MPs during the recent pre-legislative capacity-building workshop warned that many lawmakers neglect healthy lifestyles because of the demands of public office, increasing their risk of health-related complications.
“Some experts highlighted the need for healthy lifestyle practices amongst MPs, emphasising the urgent need for them to adopt healthier lifestyles and holistic wellness. The demanding nature of political duties often leads to neglect of personal well-being, contributing to health-related issues. It is, therefore, imperative to integrate wellness programmes and promote a balanced lifestyle to enhance not only the personal health of MPs but also their productivity and longevity in service,” he noted.
He also pointed out that the limitations on our parliamentary independence exacerbate the above challenges.
“With a minuscule share of the national budget, as indicated earlier, Parliament is constrained from improving both MPs’ and staff’s welfare”.
Nevertheless, the Speaker maintained that Parliament has continued to deliver on its constitutional mandate through prudent financial management and strategic partnerships.
“Despite these fiscal constraints, Parliament has achieved commendable economic milestones, a testament to our prudence and robust resource mobilisation efforts through strategic partnership engagements. The 13th Parliament has also been able to pass 53 bills since its inception in November 2024 to date,” he said.