Immigration, media freedom unite presidential candidates
Bame Piet | Wednesday October 22, 2014 17:17
Though they disagreed on many issues, they found common ground in condemning the government’s treatment of the media and the role of the state intelligence agency in immigration and expatriate matters.
They slammed the Directorate of Intelligence and Services (DIS) for taking over the issuance of work permits and residence permits to foreigners. They said this is one reason why Botswana is not attracting Foreign Direct Investment.
The two men agreed that President Ian Khama’s obsession with deporting foreign business people, some of whom are potential investors has cost the country many opportunities.
“Nobody wants to invest in a country where they can be deported the following day without being taken through the legal route.
“This is why investors are heading to other countries like Mauritius, Mozambique and others in the region,” argued Boko. He added that the DIS could be employing corrupt measures to issue work permits, some of which take months, while in other countries it takes a few days to get permits.
“This security clearance by the DIS is a recipe for corruption,” he warned.
Saleshando agreed that the unlimited involvement of the DIS in issuance of work and residence permits poses a potential threat to the country’s economy. He added that Khama, who did not take part in the debates, has deported more foreigners than his three predecessors combined.
Boko and Saleshando agreed that there is a danger in that the president can revoke a work permit of any person without first considering their business investments in the country. They said that Botswana has many challenges such as a small population, poor road infrastructure, and the high cost of doing business.
On freedom of the media, Boko stated that Khama has a serious challenge of low self-esteem.
This makes the president think that strict control of information flow to the people will secure his presidency. Boko said that Khama hates the private press because it reveals suspected corrupt activities in the government. He said that Khama is now resorting ‘outdated’ laws that have never been invoked by any of his predecessors as he tries to silence the press.
Saleshando noted that his efforts to bring Freedom of Information legislation, through a private members bill during the 10th Parliament were frustrated. He added that they will call for a law on the protection of whistle blowers. He stated that Khama’s obsession with portraying himself as perfect has resulted in him fully controlling state-owned media for purposes of propaganda by the ruling party.
Boko chipped in saying that the government fears an informed nation. He said Khama does not want the people out there to see the other side of the country or the candidates who were debating on the night, as they may see their potential as leaders.
On other issues, Boko and Saleshando were in sharp disagreement. The two candidates differed on the perfect model for Citizen Economic Empowerment, with Saleshando stating that there is need for legislation on the matter while Boko rooted for evaluation of existing policies.
Meanwhile, despite the heated exchanges, Saleshando and Boko hugged and smiled at each other at the end of the debate. Saleshando even offered to enter into coalition with UDC in the event of a hung Parliament.
The debates were sponsored by Gabz FM, US Embassy, British High Commission, and Botswana Federation of Public Service Unions (BOFEPUSU). The last round of the debates is scheduled for tomorrow.