Seretse to lose his ministerial benefits

BAME PIET
Staff Writer | Friday September 3, 2010 00:00

Government spokesman, Jeff Ramsay said that it is a normal practice that the ex-minister should stop enjoying the packages that come with the position. 'I don't think he would,' Ramsay responded to the question on whether Seretse would continue enjoying the benefits.

Ministers enjoy a salary ranging between P22,000 to P30,000; a housing allowance of P12,000 when they stay in their own houses, a dog allowance, maid allowance, entertainment allowance, responsibility allowance and sitting allowance (P5,000) among other benefits. Ministerial houses were recently completed and all of them are expected to move in to cut costs.

With Seretse out of cabinet, it is not clear what will happen to the controversial fridge bought for him by the government at a scandalous P46,000. The fridge is likely to stay idle for months and probably years as it cannot be passed to another minister to use. The minister resigned after he was slapped with corruption charges. With the slow pace at which magistrates' courts move, the politician should be prepared for the long haul.

On average a case like the one he is facing takes two or three years to complete looking at the number of witnesses, documents, and additional information that would be needed. With the Christmas break already approaching, the case is likely to be heard in 2012 or 2013. Ramsay said that he does not know who would replace Seretse in cabinet. He added that he does not know about any possible cabinet reshuffle as that is the prerogative of President Ian Khama.